Background and History
Chocolate Banana Bread is a delicious twist on classic banana bread, combining the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with rich cocoa and chocolate chips. Originating as a way to use overripe bananas, banana bread gained popularity in American kitchens during the Great Depression when home baking became more common. Adding chocolate to banana bread enhances its flavor, making it a favorite among dessert lovers.
Interesting Facts
- Bananas add natural moisture and sweetness, reducing the need for extra sugar.
- Cocoa powder and chocolate chips make this bread extra indulgent.
- It can be served warm with butter or topped with peanut butter for a tasty treat.
Servings
- Serves: 8-10 slices
Time
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (plus extra for topping)
- 1/4 cup milk (optional, for extra moisture)
Instructions
Preheat Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
Prepare Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, mash the bananas. Add melted butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
Mix Batter
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.
Fold in Chocolate Chips
Gently stir in the chocolate chips, ensuring an even distribution.
Transfer to Pan
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle extra chocolate chips on top for added richness.
Bake
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool and Serve
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Nutrition Facts (Per Slice)
- Calories: 250-300
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Sugars: 22g
- Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
Notes
- Use overripe bananas for the best sweetness and moisture.
- Substitute sugar with honey or maple syrup for a healthier alternative.
- Add nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
Allergy Warning
- Contains gluten (flour)
- Contains dairy (butter, chocolate chips, milk)
- Contains eggs
- May contain nuts if added