Name: Chocolate Chip Banana Bread
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 80 min
Ingredients: 2 cups All-purpose flour (240 grams); ¾ cup Granulated sugar (150 grams); ¾ teaspoon Baking soda; 1 teaspoon Kosher salt (3 grams); 3 Very ripe bananas (341 grams (1½ cups mashed)); ¼ cup Plain yogurt (57 grams); 6 tablespoons Unsalted butter (85 grams, melted and cooled (¾ stick)); 1 teaspoon Pure vanilla (4 grams); 2 tablespoons Orange zest (from 1 orange); 1 cup Semisweet chocolate chips (170 grams); 1 Banana (not overly ripe, sliced into ⅛-inch slices)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked Chocolate Chip Banana Bread wafting through your kitchen. As I stand at the counter, the sun rises outside, casting a warm glow on my ingredients. This bread has been a beloved staple in my home, a delightful companion for breakfast or an afternoon snack. I remember the first time I baked it; the bananas were perfectly ripe, their sweet scent blending with the rich notes of chocolate. It was a hit, with family and friends eagerly asking for seconds. Now, every time I make it, I feel a sense of comfort and nostalgia, knowing that I’m creating something special that brings people together.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
1 hr 20 mins

Prep Time:
20 mins

Cook Time:
60 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
232 kcal

Protein:
3g g

Diet:
Paleo, Whole30, Vegan

Fat:
10g g

Tools Used:
Kitchen Scale (optional), 9×5-inch loaf pan

Why This Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Is a Winner

It’s Irresistibly Delicious

The combination of sweet, ripe bananas and rich chocolate chips creates a flavor explosion that simply can’t be beaten. Each slice is soft and moist, making it the perfect treat for any time of the day.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a brunch gathering or a cozy family breakfast, this Chocolate Chip Banana Bread fits right in. It’s an easy recipe to whip up, making it a go-to whenever I need a quick dessert or snack.

Simple Ingredients, Huge Flavor

With just a handful of pantry staples like flour, sugar, and butter, you can create something that tastes gourmet. The beauty lies in the simplicity of the ingredients, allowing the natural sweetness of the bananas to shine through.

Great for Using Up Overripe Bananas

We all have those moments when bananas ripen faster than we can eat them. Instead of tossing them out, this recipe helps transform them into something scrumptious. It’s a win-win for both the fruit and your taste buds!

Versatile and Customizable

One of the best aspects of this Chocolate Chip Banana Bread is its versatility. Add in some nuts for a crunch, or swap out the chocolate chips for dried fruit or spices to make it your own. The possibilities are endless!

Key Ingredients for Chocolate Chip Banana Bread

The ingredients for this Chocolate Chip Banana Bread are not just essential; they each play a vital role in creating the perfect loaf. The key players include flour for structure, bananas for sweetness and moisture, and butter for richness. Together, they create a harmonious blend that results in a tender, flavorful bread that you won’t be able to resist.

2 cups all-purpose flour (240 grams) – The foundation of the bread, giving it structure and a soft crumb.
¾ cup granulated sugar (150 grams) – Adds sweetness and helps with the browning of the crust.
¾ teaspoon baking soda – Helps the bread rise and achieve a fluffy texture.
1 teaspoon kosher salt (3 grams) – Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
3 very ripe bananas (341 grams, or 1½ cups mashed) – The star ingredient that provides sweetness and moisture.
¼ cup plain yogurt (57 grams) – Adds moisture and a slight tang to balance the sweetness.
6 tablespoons unsalted butter (85 grams, melted and cooled) – Provides richness and flavor.
1 teaspoon pure vanilla (4 grams) – Infuses the bread with a warm, aromatic flavor.
2 tablespoons orange zest – Adds a fresh, citrusy brightness to the loaf.
1 cup semisweet chocolate chips (170 grams) – For those delightful pockets of chocolate goodness.
1 banana (not overly ripe, sliced into ⅛-inch slices) – Optional topping for added flavor and presentation.

Recipe Steps for Chocolate Chip Banana Bread

Making Chocolate Chip Banana Bread is a straightforward process that yields delicious results. Follow these steps closely to get the best flavor and texture. You’ll find it’s easier than you might think!

Start by greasing and flouring the bottom of a 9×5-inch loaf pan. This step is crucial; it prevents the bread from sticking to the pan, ensuring a clean release once it’s baked.
Next, set the oven rack to the lower-middle position and preheat your oven to 375°F. Preheating is important for even baking, ensuring that the bread rises properly.
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients together first helps distribute the leavening agent, preventing any clumps in your batter.
In a separate medium mixing bowl, mash the bananas with a fork until smooth. You want about 1½ cups of mashed bananas for the best flavor. Then, add in the yogurt, melted butter, vanilla, and orange zest. Make sure everything is well combined for an even taste throughout the loaf.
Now, gently fold the banana mixture into the dry ingredients using a rubber spatula. Be careful not to over-mix; it’s okay if the batter remains lumpy. This will ensure your bread stays tender and moist.
Next, fold in the chocolate chips. This is where the magic happens, as they melt slightly during baking, creating gooey pockets of chocolate in each slice.
Transfer the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing out the top. If you like, arrange the banana slices on top for a lovely presentation. This step adds a nice touch and enhances the banana flavor.
Bake in the preheated oven for 55 to 60 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the middle comes out clean. Keep an eye on it to prevent over-baking; the loaf should spring back when lightly touched.
Once baked, transfer the bread to a cooling rack and let it cool in the pan for 5 minutes. This short cooling time helps set the loaf.
Finally, turn the bread out of the pan and allow it to cool completely on the rack or serve warm. Enjoy it plain, or with a smear of butter for a little extra indulgence!

Things Worth Knowing

Banana Ripeness: Use very ripe bananas for the best flavor. They should be heavily speckled and soft to the touch.
Mixing Technique: Avoid over-mixing the batter, as this can make the bread tough. A few lumps are okay!
Cooling Time: Allow the bread to cool properly before slicing to maintain its structure and to let the flavors develop.
Storage Tips: Keep the bread in an airtight container to maintain its moisture and freshness.

Change It Up

There are so many ways to personalize your Chocolate Chip Banana Bread. Try these fun variations to make it uniquely yours!

Add Nuts: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch.
Different Chips: Swap chocolate chips for butterscotch or peanut butter chips for a different flavor profile.
Spice It Up: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a warm spice flavor.
Make it Vegan: Replace butter with coconut oil and use a flax egg instead of the yogurt.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to accommodate dietary needs.
Serving Suggestions: Serve warm with a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent dessert.
Slice and Toast: This bread is fantastic toasted! Just pop a slice in the toaster for a crispy outer layer.

What to Serve With Chocolate Chip Banana Bread

Pairing your Chocolate Chip Banana Bread with the right accompaniments can elevate your experience. Here are some ideas to consider:

Coffee: A warm slice of banana bread is perfect alongside a steaming cup of coffee, making for a lovely breakfast or afternoon treat.
Tea: Enjoy it with herbal or chai tea for a cozy and comforting snack.
Ice Cream: Serve warm slices with a scoop of your favorite ice cream for a decadent dessert.
Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad balances the richness of the bread and makes for a refreshing side.
Nut Butter: Spread almond or peanut butter on top for added protein and flavor.
Yogurt: Pair with a dollop of plain or flavored yogurt for a creamy, tangy contrast.
Seasonal Fruits: Top slices with fresh berries or sliced kiwi for a pop of color and flavor.

FAQ

You can make your Chocolate Chip Banana Bread healthier by substituting some ingredients. For instance, use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for added fiber. You can also reduce the amount of sugar or replace it with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup. Additionally, consider adding nuts or seeds for extra nutrients. Using Greek yogurt can also boost the protein content, making it a more balanced snack.

Absolutely! Freezing Chocolate Chip Banana Bread is a great way to preserve its freshness. Once the bread has cooled completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. For extra protection, place the wrapped bread in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it at room temperature or pop it in the microwave for a few seconds for a quick warm-up.

There are countless variations you can try with Chocolate Chip Banana Bread. You can experiment with different types of chocolate chips, like dark or white chocolate. Adding nuts like walnuts or pecans can give a wonderful crunch. For a touch of spice, incorporate cinnamon or even pumpkin spice. You can also make it a bit healthier by replacing some of the flour with oats or adding in seeds for a nutritious boost.

To check if your Chocolate Chip Banana Bread is done, insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached, it’s ready! If the toothpick comes out with wet batter, it needs more time in the oven. Keep an eye on the color of the crust; it should be golden brown. Remember, every oven is different, so baking times may vary slightly.

Conclusion

This Chocolate Chip Banana Bread is truly a heartwarming recipe that brings joy with every slice. It’s perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; it’s a simple way to transform ripe bananas into something utterly delicious. Enjoy the process and the delightful aroma that fills your kitchen while baking this sweet treat!