Chocolate Banana Bread

Chocolate Banana Bread is a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of cocoa with the sweetness of ripe bananas. This easy-to-make bread offers a moist and tender crumb, perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert. The aroma of freshly baked banana bread wafting through your kitchen is truly irresistible, inviting everyone to enjoy a slice.

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 55 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Servings: 8 slices
• Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

• Calories per serving: 200
• Protein: 3 grams
• Carbohydrates: 30 grams
• Fat: 9 grams
• Fiber: 2 grams
• Sugar: 12 grams
• Sodium: 150 mg

Why Make This Chocolate Banana Bread

Chocolate Banana Bread is an excellent way to use up overripe bananas while indulging in a chocolaty goodness that’s hard to resist. The combination of bananas and cocoa creates a complementary flavor profile that is pleasantly rich. Perfect for kid-friendly lunches or a midnight snack, this recipe is not only delicious but also a great way to sneak in some fruit into your diet. Plus, the added chocolate chips make it feel like a real treat!

How to Make Chocolate Banana Bread

Making Chocolate Banana Bread is straightforward. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have a decadent loaf baking in no time. It requires minimal preparation and is forgiving, making it perfect even for beginner bakers.

Ingredients:

• 3 ripe bananas, mashed
• 1/3 cup melted butter
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• Pinch of salt
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cocoa powder
• 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)

Directions:

• Step 1: Preparation

  Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 4×8 inch loaf pan to prevent the bread from sticking.

• Step 2: Mixing

  In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth. Stir the melted butter into the mashed bananas until well combined.

• Step 3: Combining Ingredients

  Mix in the baking soda and salt. Add the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract, stirring until just combined.

• Step 4: Flour Incorporation

  Gradually mix in the flour and cocoa powder until fully incorporated. If desired, fold in the chocolate chips for an extra chocolatey flavor.

• Step 5: Baking

  Pour the batter into the greased loaf pan, smoothing the top. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

• Step 6: Cooling

  Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, gently remove it from the pan and let it cool completely on a wire rack.

How to Serve Chocolate Banana Bread

Chocolate Banana Bread is delightful served fresh out of the oven, but it can also be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. Slice it and serve plain, or add a pat of butter for extra richness. This bread pairs wonderfully with coffee or hot chocolate, making it a perfect afternoon pick-me-up or comforting dessert.

How to Store Chocolate Banana Bread

To keep your Chocolate Banana Bread fresh, store it at room temperature in an airtight container. It can last for about 3 days. If you want to keep it for longer, consider freezing it. Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. The bread can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw slices as needed for a quick snack!

Expert Tips for Perfect Chocolate Banana Bread

1. Banana Ripeness: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be. Look for bananas with brown spots!
2. Don’t Overmix: When combining the dry ingredients, mix until just incorporated to keep the bread tender.
3. Check for Doneness: Baking times may vary, so begin checking for doneness at the 50-minute mark.
4. Add Nuts: Consider adding chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
5. Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet bread, reduce the sugar to 1/2 cup.

Delicious Variations

• Nutty Delight: Add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a nutty texture.
• Spiced Banana Bread: Sprinkle in a teaspoon of cinnamon for added warmth and spice.
• Banana Peanut Butter Bread: Swirl in 1/4 cup of peanut butter into the batter for a nutty twist.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I use frozen bananas?
  Yes, you can use frozen bananas! Just thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before mashing.

• What can I substitute for an egg?
  You can use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) or 1/4 cup of applesauce as an egg substitute.

• Can I use whole wheat flour?
  Yes, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option, but it may change the texture slightly.

• How do I know when the bread is done?
  Insert a toothpick in the center of the bread; it should come out clean or with a few crumbs attached, but not wet batter.

• How can I make it less caloric?
  You can reduce sugar to 1/2 cup and omit the chocolate chips for a lighter option.

Conclusion

Chocolate Banana Bread is a simple and rewarding recipe that brings warmth and joy to any occasion. Its delightful combination of chocolate and banana makes it a favorite among family and friends. Don’t hesitate to give it a try—this delicious bread could become a cherished part of your baking repertoire! Bake it, share it, and enjoy every slice!

Chocolate Banana Bread

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• Author: lydia
• Total Time: 65 minutes
• Yield: 8 slices 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of cocoa with the sweetness of ripe bananas. Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert.

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Ingredients

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• 3 ripe bananas, mashed
• 1/3 cup melted butter
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• Pinch of salt
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cocoa powder
• 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 4×8 inch loaf pan.
2. Mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth. Stir the melted butter into the mashed bananas.
3. Mix in the baking soda and salt. Add the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract, stirring until just combined.
4. Gradually mix in the flour and cocoa powder until fully incorporated. Fold in chocolate chips if desired.
5. Pour the batter into the greased loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then remove and cool completely on a wire rack.

Notes

For a nuttier flavor, consider adding walnuts or pecans. For a spicy twist, add a teaspoon of cinnamon.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 55 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 200
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 30mg