Rich Chocolate Banana Bread: A perfect treat to welcome you back from your vacation

Celebrate the end of your vacation with our delicious Chocolate Banana Bread. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the rich, indulgent taste of chocolate, creating a moist, flavorful loaf that’s perfect for getting back into the daily grind. With a hint of maple syrup and a base of nutty almonds, each slice offers a comforting blend of flavors that will make your post-vacation transition a delicious experience.

Why you'll love this: This chocolate banana bread isn’t just another sweet treat; it’s a celebration of simple, wholesome ingredients coming together to create something truly special. The use of almond flour adds depth of flavor and a tender crumb, while the chocolate chunks give each bite a gooey, melt-in-your-mouth quality. It’s a perfect snack for any time of day, serving equally well as a quick breakfast, a satisfying afternoon snack, or a light dessert.

Perfect opportunity: This bread is ideal for informal gatherings, afternoon coffee breaks, or as a welcome gift for loved ones returning from travel. It’s also a fantastic option for weekend brunches when you’re craving something sweet but not too sweet. Serve it as part of a buffet or give it to friends and family to share a piece of your culinary talents.

Decorating tips:

• Before baking, sprinkle the top with a mixture of coarse sugar and cinnamon for a crunchy topping.
• Serve warm slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an even more indulgent treat.
• Garnish with fresh banana slices or a drizzle of chocolate sauce to enhance the presentation.
• Accompany each slice with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a glass of cold milk to complement the flavors.

Ingredients:

• Ripe bananas: 3 for the dough, 1 for the filling
• Egg: 1
• Brown sugar: 40g
• Maple syrup: 2 tablespoons
• Almond powder: 110g
• All-purpose flour: 110g
• Baking powder: 5 g
• Milk: 45g
• Chopped chocolate: 120g

Instructions:

1. Prepare the dough:
   • Mash three ripe bananas in a large mixing bowl.
   • Add the egg and brown sugar and mix well.
   • Stir in maple syrup, almond powder, flour and baking powder until well combined.
   • Stir in the chopped chocolate and milk until smooth and combined.
2. Cook:
   • Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F).
   • Pour the batter into a 20cm cake tin.
   • Cut the remaining banana in half lengthwise and place on top of the dough for a decorative touch.
   • Bake for 55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
3. Appreciate:
   • Allow the bread to cool slightly before slicing.
   • Serve warm or at room temperature for the best taste experience.

Indulge in this comforting and rich Chocolate Banana Bread, a perfect treat to sweeten your day as you reminisce about your recent vacation adventures!