Why Make This Recipe
Chocolate Banana Bread is a delicious and comforting treat that mixes the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with rich chocolate flavor. It’s a perfect way to use overripe bananas that you may have lying around. This recipe is easy and quick, making it ideal for both beginner and seasoned bakers. Whether you want a tasty snack or a delightful breakfast, this banana bread will hit the sweet spot!
How to Make Chocolate Banana Bread
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan.
- In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth.
- Stir the melted butter into the mashed bananas.
- Mix in the sugar, egg, and vanilla extract.
- Sprinkle the baking soda and salt over the mixture and mix well.
- Add the flour and cocoa powder and stir until just combined.
- Fold in chocolate chips if you’re using them.
- Pour the batter into the greased loaf pan.
- Bake for 60-65 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
How to Serve Chocolate Banana Bread
You can serve Chocolate Banana Bread warm or at room temperature. It is great on its own, but you can also spread some butter on top for extra flavor. For a special touch, enjoy it with a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
How to Store Chocolate Banana Bread
To keep your Chocolate Banana Bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer bag. It will stay good in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Tips to Make Chocolate Banana Bread
- Make sure to use very ripe bananas for the best flavor.
- Don’t overmix the batter; stirring just until combined helps keep the bread tender.
- If you want a richer chocolate flavor, add more cocoa powder or chocolate chips.
Variation
You can customize your Chocolate Banana Bread by adding nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for a crunchy texture. You can also experiment with different types of chocolate chips, like white chocolate or dark chocolate.
FAQs
Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?
Yes, you can use thawed frozen bananas. Make sure to drain any extra liquid before mashing them.
What can I do if I don’t have cocoa powder?
You can omit the cocoa powder for a regular banana bread, or substitute it with a similar amount of flour for a plain banana loaf.
How do I know when my bread is done baking?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the bread. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the bread is ready. If it has wet batter on it, bake for a few more minutes.
Chocolate Banana Bread
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 65 minutes
- Total Time: 80 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delicious and comforting treat combining ripe bananas and rich chocolate flavor, perfect for using overripe bananas.
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan.
- In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth.
- Stir the melted butter into the mashed bananas.
- Mix in the sugar, egg, and vanilla extract.
- Sprinkle the baking soda and salt over the mixture and mix well.
- Add the flour and cocoa powder and stir until just combined.
- Fold in chocolate chips if you’re using them.
- Pour the batter into the greased loaf pan.
- Bake for 60-65 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
For extra flavor, spread butter on the bread or serve with ice cream or whipped cream. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.