A Deliciously Moist and Simple Treat
Chocolate chip banana bread is the perfect balance of sweetness and comfort. This easy recipe transforms overripe bananas into a moist, flavorful loaf with rich chocolatey goodness. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast, a snack, or a dessert, this recipe is a go-to for busy bakers who want a delicious homemade treat without too much effort.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and simple: Requires minimal ingredients and effort.
- Moist and flavorful: Bananas keep the bread soft and naturally sweet.
- Chocolatey goodness: Chocolate chips add bursts of richness.
- Perfect for using up overripe bananas: No waste, just great flavor.
- Customizable: Add nuts, cinnamon, or swap chocolate chips for a twist.
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup chocolate chips (plus extra for topping)
Directions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
Step 2: Prepare the Batter
- In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth.
- Stir in the melted butter until well combined.
- Mix in the sugar, egg, and vanilla extract.
- Sprinkle the baking soda and salt over the mixture and stir to combine.
- Gently fold in the flour, mixing just until no dry streaks remain.
- Fold in the chocolate chips, reserving some for the top.
Step 3: Bake the Banana Bread
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
- Sprinkle extra chocolate chips on top for a decorative touch.
- Bake for 50–60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Variations and Add-Ins
- Nutty Crunch: Add ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans.
- Cinnamon Swirl: Mix in 1 teaspoon of cinnamon for a warm flavor.
- Healthier Version: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour.
- Peanut Butter Twist: Swirl in 2 tablespoons of peanut butter for extra richness.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Makes 1 loaf (about 8–10 slices)
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Bake Time: 50–60 minutes
- Total Time: About 1 hour 10 minutes
Storage and Reheating
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Refrigeration: Keep in the fridge for up to a week for extended freshness.
- Freezing: Wrap slices individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Microwave a slice for 10–15 seconds to restore its warmth and softness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen bananas?
Yes, thaw frozen bananas completely and drain any excess liquid before mashing them.
Can I make this banana bread without eggs?
Yes, substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water) or ¼ cup applesauce.
Why is my banana bread dry?
Overmixing the batter or using too much flour can lead to dryness. Mix gently and measure flour accurately.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for an easy swap.
How do I make banana muffins with this recipe?
Divide the batter into a muffin tin and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 18–22 minutes.
What can I use instead of chocolate chips?
Try chopped dark chocolate, white chocolate, or even dried fruit like raisins.
How do I know when my banana bread is done?
Insert a toothpick in the center—if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, it’s ready.
Can I reduce the sugar?
Yes, reduce the sugar to ½ cup for a less sweet version.
Should I use salted or unsalted butter?
Unsalted butter is preferred, but if using salted, reduce the added salt to ⅛ teaspoon.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, simply double all ingredients and use two loaf pans.
Conclusion
This easy chocolate chip banana bread is a simple yet irresistible recipe that anyone can master. It’s moist, packed with flavor, and perfect for any occasion. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or toasted with butter, this banana bread is sure to become a household favorite. Try it today and enjoy a slice of homemade goodness!
Print
Easy Chocolate Chip Banana Bread
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf 1x
Description
A moist and delicious chocolate chip banana bread recipe that is simple to make. This easy banana bread is perfect for using up ripe bananas and makes a great breakfast, snack, or dessert.
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (plus extra for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Batter
- In a large bowl, mash bananas until smooth. Stir in melted butter.
- Mix in sugar, egg, and vanilla extract.
- Sprinkle baking soda and salt over the mixture and stir to combine.
- Gently fold in flour until just combined.
- Fold in chocolate chips, reserving some for the top.
- Bake the Banana Bread
- Pour batter into the prepared loaf pan.
- Sprinkle extra chocolate chips on top.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- Storage: Keep at room temperature for up to 3 days, refrigerate for up to a week, or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Variations: Add chopped nuts, cinnamon, or peanut butter for extra flavor.
- Make it Healthier: Swap half the flour for whole wheat flour or reduce the sugar.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
- Category: dessert, snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: banana bread, chocolate chip banana bread, easy banana bread, moist banana bread, homemade banana bread
