If you adore the cozy, tender goodness of homemade baked treats, then you are going to fall head over heels for this Banana Chocolate Chip Bread Recipe. Bursting with sweet ripe bananas and pockets of melty chocolate chips, this bread is the perfect harmony of moist texture and rich flavor. It’s an unbeatable way to use up those perfectly overripe bananas sitting on your counter, transforming simple pantry staples into a delightful loaf that feels like a warm hug. Whether for breakfast, an afternoon pick-me-up, or a comforting dessert, this recipe will quickly become your go-to for fuss-free, satisfying baking.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t be intimidated by baking; this Banana Chocolate Chip Bread Recipe relies on straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that each play a crucial role. Together, they create a balanced loaf with just the right sweetness, moisture, and a hint of chocolate indulgence.
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed: The star ingredient that adds natural sweetness and keeps the bread wonderfully moist.
- 1/3 cup melted unsalted butter: Adds richness and tenderness to the crumb without overwhelming the flavors.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the bread with a clean, classic touch.
- 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar: Brings a warm, caramel-like depth and helps keep the bread soft.
- 1 large egg: Binds the ingredients together and provides structure.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall sweetness and adds aromatic complexity.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Ensures the bread rises nicely for a tender, airy texture.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances flavors and intensifies sweetness.
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The base that gives the bread its shape and soft crumb.
- 3/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips: Chocolatey pockets of joy that make each bite irresistibly delightful.
How to Make Banana Chocolate Chip Bread Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper, so your bread comes out easily and cleanly every time. This simple prep step sets you up for baking success.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine your mashed ripe bananas with the melted unsalted butter. This blend creates a luxurious base that makes your bread moist and flavorful. Stir in the granulated sugar, light brown sugar, the egg, and vanilla extract until everything is fully mixed and beautifully glossy.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
Sprinkle the baking soda and salt directly over your wet mixture. Stir gently to distribute them evenly before adding the flour—this prevents pockets of leavening. Then, fold in the all-purpose flour carefully, mixing just until the batter is all combined and you no longer see streaks. Avoid overmixing, or your bread might turn out dense.
Step 4: Add Chocolate Chips and Bake
Fold in the chocolate chips to distribute their rich pockets across the batter. Pour everything into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula for even baking. Place it in your oven and bake for 55 to 65 minutes. Test doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs clinging gently.
Step 5: Cool and Enjoy
Allow your bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. This resting period lets the flavors settle and avoids any sogginess, so every slice is just perfect.
How to Serve Banana Chocolate Chip Bread Recipe
Garnishes
For a little extra flair, sprinkle a pinch of powdered sugar on top or spread a thin layer of softened butter that melts right into the warm slice. Fresh banana slices or a handful of chopped nuts on the side can also add inviting texture and appeal.
Side Dishes
This bread pairs beautifully with a cozy cup of coffee or herbal tea. A dollop of vanilla yogurt or a small bowl of fresh fruit complements the sweetness without overpowering the loaf’s rich banana and chocolate flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress your guests or family? Serve thin slices alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an effortless dessert. Or, toast a slice lightly, then spread it with cream cheese and drizzle with honey for a sophisticated brunch offering. The versatility of this Banana Chocolate Chip Bread Recipe means you can get wonderfully creative.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap your leftover banana chocolate chip bread tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container at room temperature. It stays moist and delicious for up to 3 days—perfect if you want a quick breakfast treat or afternoon snack.
Freezing
If you want to keep your bread fresh longer, freeze it well wrapped in foil or plastic wrap and then placed inside a freezer bag. It will keep for up to 2 months, so you can enjoy this delightful bread anytime, even when you don’t have ripe bananas handy.
Reheating
To enjoy your bread as if freshly baked, thaw frozen slices at room temperature and warm them in a toaster oven or microwave for a few seconds. This brings back that soft warmth and makes the chocolate chips wonderfully melty again.
FAQs
Can I use regular sugar instead of brown sugar in this Banana Chocolate Chip Bread Recipe?
Absolutely! While brown sugar adds a subtle caramel flavor and extra moisture, using all granulated sugar will still produce a delicious bread with good texture and sweetness.
What if I don’t have ripe bananas?
Overripe bananas are ideal because they are naturally sweeter and easier to mash, making the bread moist. If your bananas aren’t ripe yet, you can speed up ripening by placing them in a paper bag for a day or two.
Can I substitute chocolate chips with nuts?
Yes! Chopped walnuts or pecans make a fantastic swap, adding crunch and a nutty flavor that complements the bananas beautifully. Feel free to mix them in or sprinkle on top before baking.
Is this Banana Chocolate Chip Bread Recipe suitable for freezing?
Definitely! This bread freezes wonderfully. Make sure to wrap it tightly to avoid freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw and warm it for a fresh-baked experience.
How do I know when the bread is done baking?
Insert a toothpick in the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, your bread is perfectly baked. If wet batter sticks to the toothpick, keep baking a little longer and check again.
Final Thoughts
This Banana Chocolate Chip Bread Recipe is one of those timeless treats that brings joy and comfort with every bite. It’s simple enough for a weekday baking project but impressive enough for sharing with loved ones. So grab those ripe bananas, get your favorite chocolate chips ready, and dive into baking a loaf that will fill your home with irresistible aroma and your heart with pure happiness. You deserve this delicious slice of home-baked bliss.
Print
Banana Chocolate Chip Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (about 10 slices)
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This classic Banana Chocolate Chip Bread is a moist and flavorful quick bread that combines ripe bananas with sweet chocolate chips. Perfect for breakfast, snack, or dessert, it’s easy to make with simple ingredients and yields a tender loaf with a rich banana flavor and melty chocolate throughout.
Ingredients
Banana Bread Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/3 cup melted unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Combine Bananas and Butter: In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas thoroughly and stir in the melted unsalted butter until well combined, creating a smooth base.
- Add Sugars and Egg: Mix in the granulated sugar, light brown sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract into the banana mixture until fully incorporated for a balanced sweetness and flavor.
- Incorporate Baking Soda and Salt: Sprinkle the baking soda and salt over the mixture and gently stir to evenly distribute these leavening and seasoning agents.
- Add Flour: Gradually fold in the all-purpose flour, mixing just until there are no flour streaks remaining. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender.
- Mix in Chocolate Chips: Gently fold the semi-sweet chocolate chips into the batter, ensuring they are evenly distributed without overworking the mix.
- Transfer to Pan and Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula for even baking. Bake in the preheated oven for 55 to 65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- Cool: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon or swap chocolate chips for chopped walnuts or pecans.
- Overripe bananas work best for sweetness and moisture.
- Bread can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
