Banana Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 60-70 minutes
• Total Time: 75-85 minutes
• Servings: 8 slices
• Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

• Calories per serving: 250
• Protein: 3g
• Carbohydrates: 37g
• Fat: 10g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 16g
• Sodium: 180mg

Why Make This Banana Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread

Banana Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread is a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of ripe bananas and pumpkin puree creates a moist texture, while the chocolate chips offer a sweet, melty surprise in every bite. This recipe is not only delicious but also easy to make, making it a great option for home bakers of any experience level. Whether you’re enjoying it at breakfast, as an afternoon snack, or even as a dessert, this bread is sure to please everyone. The warm, cozy spices make it ideal for fall, but it’s delicious year-round.

How to Make Banana Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe bananas, mashed
• 1 cup pumpkin puree
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup chocolate chips

Directions:

Step 1: Preparation

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan to ensure your bread comes out easily after baking.

Step 2: Mixing Wet Ingredients

• In a large bowl, mix together the mashed bananas, pumpkin puree, white sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Combining Dry Ingredients

• In another bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix these dry ingredients together thoroughly.

Step 4: Mixing Together

• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir until just combined, being careful not to overmix. Fold in the chocolate chips gently, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 5: Baking

• Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Cooling

• Once baked, remove the loaf from the oven. Allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

How to Serve Banana Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread

Banana Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread is delicious on its own, but you can elevate it further by serving it warm with a pat of butter or a drizzle of maple syrup. For a special occasion, pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. It also makes a thoughtful gift when wrapped in cellophane and tied with a ribbon.

How to Store Banana Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread

To keep your Banana Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it for a longer period, slice the bread and freeze the pieces in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm in the microwave for a few seconds.

Expert Tips for Perfect Banana Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread

1. Bananas: Use very ripe bananas for the best flavor. They should be heavily speckled and soft.
2. Pumpkin Puree: Make sure to use pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, as the latter contains added spices and sugars.
3. Mixing: Do not overmix the batter; mix just until the dry ingredients are incorporated for a light, tender loaf.
4. Chocolate Chips: For added flavor, consider using dark chocolate chips or a mix of chocolate and nuts.
5. Testing for Doneness: Ovens can vary, so start checking your loaf at the 55-minute mark to avoid overbaking.

Delicious Variations

• Nutty Twist: Add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture and flavor.
• Spice It Up: For a spicier kick, increase the cinnamon and nutmeg.
• Low Sugar: Substitute a sugar alternative to reduce the sweetness while retaining moisture.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version that everyone can enjoy.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I make this bread in advance? Yes! Banana Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together. You can also freeze the loaf for longer storage.
• What can I use instead of eggs? You can use flax eggs (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg) or applesauce as an egg substitute.
• How do I know when the bread is done baking? Insert a toothpick into the center of the bread; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, the bread is done. If it comes out wet, give it a few more minutes.
• Can I use canned pumpkin? Yes, canned pumpkin puree works beautifully in this recipe. Just make sure it’s pure pumpkin without additives.
• Is this recipe nut-free? Yes, the original recipe is nut-free. However, you can add nuts if you like, just be mindful of any allergies.

Conclusion

Banana Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread is a delightful way to enjoy the flavors of fall and the sweetness of ripe bananas. Cozy and moist, this bread is simple to whip up and certain to become a favorite. With its delightful aroma and scrumptious taste, it’s perfect for sharing with family and friends or keeping all to yourself. Don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try—your taste buds will thank you!