This Gluten-Free Chocolate Banana Bread is a delightful twist on the classic banana bread, offering a rich chocolate flavor and a moist, tender crumb. Enhanced with the unique addition of instant chocolate pudding in the batter and topped with a luscious dark chocolate ganache, this bread is a perfect treat for those following a gluten-free diet or anyone who loves the combination of banana and chocolate flavors.
Ingredients:
For the Chocolate Banana Bread:
- 113 grams unsalted butter, room temperature
- 100 grams light brown sugar
- 100 grams granulated white sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 145 grams gluten-free multi-purpose flour
- 45 grams Dutch-processed cocoa
- 25 grams instant chocolate pudding (or additional gluten-free flour)
- 1 tsp Diamond Kosher Sea Salt
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp instant espresso (optional)
- 200 grams ripe bananas, mashed
- 115 grams full-fat sour cream
For the Ganache Topping:
- 115 grams heavy cream
- 85 grams dark chocolate chips
- A pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Prepare for Baking: Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a loaf pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal.
- Dry Ingredients: Sift together gluten-free flour, instant chocolate pudding (or extra flour), cocoa, baking soda, salt, and instant espresso. Set aside.
- Creaming: In a stand mixer, cream butter and sugars for 4-5 minutes until light and creamy.
- Add Eggs: Mix in eggs one at a time.
- Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients: Add dry ingredients to the mixer, mix until just combined. Follow with mashed bananas and sour cream, mixing briefly.
- Bake the Bread: Transfer batter to the loaf pan. Let it rest at room temperature while the oven preheats. Bake for 50-65 minutes or until a tester comes out clean. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
- Make Ganache: Simmer heavy cream, pour over chocolate chips and a pinch of salt. Let sit for a minute, then stir until smooth.
- Finish with Ganache: Pour ganache over cooled bread. Let set before slicing.
Notes:
- If omitting instant chocolate pudding, replace it with an equal amount of gluten-free flour.
- The ganache topping is optional; you can also top the warm bread with extra chocolate chips.
This Gluten-Free Chocolate Banana Bread is not only a treat for those with dietary restrictions but also a delightful indulgence for any chocolate and banana lover. Enjoy it as a dessert or a special snack!
