Chocolate Chip Banana Bread: A Sweet Take on a Classic

Discover the comforting warmth of homemade chocolate chip banana bread, where classic banana bread meets the irresistible appeal of chocolate chips. This delicious treat combines ripe bananas with rich chocolate chips, creating a moist and tender loaf, perfectly sweetened with a blend of granulated and brown sugar. Each slice offers the comforting aroma of vanilla and the comforting taste of bananas, enhanced by the melting chocolate chips scattered throughout.

Why you'll love this

This banana bread recipe is a game changer for any home baker. It’s incredibly easy to make and results in a perfectly moist loaf, thanks to the combination of ripe bananas and melted butter. The chocolate chips add a rich, gooey texture and a chocolatey depth that complements the bananas’ natural sweetness. It’s the perfect balance of flavors that will have you coming back for slice after slice. Not only is this banana bread delicious, it’s also a great way to use up overripe bananas in a deliciously sweet way.

Perfect opportunity

This chocolate chip banana bread is versatile enough for any occasion. Serve it for breakfast, take it for a snack to work or school, or give it as a thoughtful gift to friends and neighbors. It's also great for casual gatherings, coffee breaks, or as a treat after a family meal. Its warm charm makes it a hit at holiday gatherings or as a comforting treat to brighten up a rainy day.

Decorating Tips

Before baking, sprinkle the top of the dough with a handful of chocolate chips and a few chopped nuts for an appealing texture and professional bakery look. Once baked and cooled, you can drizzle the top with a simple icing made with icing sugar and milk or serve each slice with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra indulgent treat.

Ingredients:

• 3 large ripe bananas, coarsely mashed
• 8 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 1 large egg, at room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• A pinch of salt
• 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (plus extra for garnish)
• Optional: chopped nuts for garnish

Method:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and line a cake pan with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas with melted butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, egg and vanilla extract. Whisk vigorously until well combined.
3. Sift flour into banana mixture to make a smooth batter. Add baking soda and a pinch of salt, mixing until no pockets of flour remain.
4. Stir in chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle the top with additional chocolate chips and chopped nuts if desired.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy this delicious Chocolate Chip Banana Bread with your favorite beverage or as a delicious treat any time of day!