There’s something truly magical about a fresh loaf of Chocolate Banana Bread: the marriage of deep, rich cocoa and sweet, ripe bananas creates a treat that’s pure comfort in every bite. This recipe is all about achieving that perfect balance—moist, chocolatey, and just sweet enough, with bursts of melty chocolate chips in every slice. Whether you’re serving it as a decadent breakfast, a heartwarming snack, or a dreamy dessert, this loaf is destined to become your new go-to for any occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gather these simple pantry staples and a couple of fresh bananas, and you’ll be amazed by the difference each one makes in flavor, texture, or gorgeous color. Every ingredient in this Chocolate Banana Bread brings its unique contribution, ensuring each bite is irresistibly soft, chocolaty, and full of dimension.
- Ripe Bananas (3, mashed): The riper, the better—these bring sweetness, moisture, and that classic banana aroma.
- Unsweetened Cocoa Powder (1/2 cup): Gives a deep chocolate flavor and the loaf’s beautiful dark color.
- All-purpose Flour (1 cup): The backbone of your loaf, provides structure while keeping it light.
- Baking Soda (1/2 teaspoon): Helps the bread rise and stay tender.
- Baking Powder (1/2 teaspoon): Works alongside baking soda for extra lift and a fluffy crumb.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Just a pinch to heighten all the other flavors.
- Brown Sugar (1/2 cup): Adds a hint of molasses flavor and moisture.
- Granulated Sugar (1/4 cup): Balances sweetness and gives a bit of texture.
- Vegetable Oil (1/3 cup): Keeps the bread ultra-moist and tender crumbed.
- Large Eggs (2): Bind everything together and provide structure.
- Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon): Rounds out the flavors with a warm, aromatic note.
- Greek Yogurt or Sour Cream (1/2 cup): Delivers richness and that perfect, slightly tangy depth.
- Semi-sweet Chocolate Chips (1/2 cup, plus extra for topping): Melty, decadent bursts of chocolate in every bite; save a handful for sprinkling over the top!
How to Make Chocolate Banana Bread
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). To prevent sticking, grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it neatly with parchment paper. This little extra step guarantees your Chocolate Banana Bread will lift right out, ready for slicing.
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mashed bananas, brown sugar, granulated sugar, oil, eggs, vanilla extract, and Greek yogurt until the mixture is beautifully smooth. The bananas should be well incorporated, making the base luscious and sweet.
Step 3: Whisk Dry Ingredients Separately
In another bowl, blend the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Whisking them together first ensures the leavening agents and cocoa are evenly dispersed, so your loaf bakes up with the perfect crumb.
Step 4: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients into the bowl with the wet mixture. Stir gently, just until no streaks of flour remain. Over-mixing can make any quick bread tough, so keep things light and easy here—lumps are totally fine!
Step 5: Fold in the Chocolate Chips
Sprinkle in the semi-sweet chocolate chips and, if you’re feeling adventurous, any nuts you love for extra texture. Using a spatula, fold them in lightly so every slice gets plenty of chocolatey goodness.
Step 6: Fill the Pan and Add Toppings
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. For that extra wow factor (and more chocolate!), scatter a handful of chocolate chips across the surface.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 50 to 60 minutes. Start checking at the 50-minute mark by inserting a toothpick into the center. You’re looking for a few moist crumbs—this ensures your Chocolate Banana Bread is moist, not dry. Let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
How to Serve Chocolate Banana Bread
Garnishes
For an irresistible finish, try dusting the cooled loaf with a touch of powdered sugar, a drizzle of melted chocolate, or a handful of roasted nuts. Even a few fresh banana slices can add a touch of elegance, turning a simple slice into a beautiful treat.
Side Dishes
Chocolate Banana Bread pairs delightfully with a dollop of Greek yogurt, a spoonful of whipped cream, or a scoop of silky vanilla ice cream. I also love it with fresh berries on the side for a pop of color and natural tartness.
Creative Ways to Present
Go beyond the loaf! Try cutting it into cubes for chocolatey bread pudding, layering slices in a luxe trifle, or turning leftover slices into Chocolate Banana Bread French toast. Wrapping mini loaves in parchment and ribbon makes them thoughtful homemade gifts.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled completely, store your Chocolate Banana Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. The loaf actually gets even more moist and flavorful after a day or two, making it a wonderful make-ahead option.
Freezing
Chocolate Banana Bread is a freezer superstar! Wrap individual slices or the whole loaf tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil, and freeze for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature or in the fridge before enjoying for maximum freshness.
Reheating
For that just-baked taste, warm slices in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds or toast them gently in a skillet. A quick reheat brings out the gooey chocolate chips and revives the bread’s irresistible texture.
FAQs
Can I make this Chocolate Banana Bread gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free flour blend in a one-to-one ratio. Check that your baking powder and chocolate chips are certified gluten-free, and bake as directed.
What’s the best way to ripen bananas quickly?
If you’re craving Chocolate Banana Bread but only have firm bananas, pop them (peels on) onto a baking sheet and bake at 300°F for about 15 minutes. Let them cool, then peel and mash—they’ll be sweet and ready for the recipe.
Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?
You can! For a less sweet loaf, reduce each sugar by about 2 tablespoons. Just know that this might alter the texture and sweetness balance, but it’ll still be delicious.
Is it possible to add mix-ins beyond chocolate chips?
Definitely. Chopped walnuts, pecans, or even dried cherries add amazing texture and flavor. Fold in up to half a cup of your favorites before baking for a personalized loaf.
How can I tell when Chocolate Banana Bread is done baking?
The best way is the classic toothpick test: insert one into the center and look for a few moist crumbs. Avoid overbaking for that dreamy, moist crumb—but make sure the center is set before you take it out of the oven.
Final Thoughts
I hope you’re as excited to bake this Chocolate Banana Bread as I am to share it with you. Whether this is your first loaf or your fiftieth, it’s a guaranteed hit that brings joy to any table—so don’t wait, treat yourself and your loved ones to a slice of pure comfort!
Print
Chocolate Banana Bread Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (8–10 slices) 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the rich, chocolaty goodness of this Chocolate Banana Bread. Moist and flavorful, this easy-to-make treat is perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients:
- 3 ripe bananas (mashed)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
Dry Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (plus extra for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- Mix wet ingredients: In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, sugars, oil, eggs, vanilla, and yogurt until smooth.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together cocoa powder, flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Fold in chocolate chips.
- Bake: Pour batter into the pan, top with extra chocolate chips, and bake for 50–60 minutes.
- Cool and serve: Let the bread cool before slicing and serving.
Notes
- For added texture, mix in chopped walnuts or pecans.
- Use very ripe bananas for best flavor and natural sweetness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 245
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
