This double chocolate banana bread is the ultimate indulgence for chocolate lovers. Combining the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with rich cocoa and melty chocolate chips, this bread is perfectly moist and decadent. With an optional crunch from walnuts, this loaf is ideal for a sweet breakfast, afternoon snack, or a satisfying dessert. Easy to make and packed with flavor, this banana bread will quickly become a household favorite.
Why You'll Love This Recipe:
You’ll love this double chocolate banana bread for its rich chocolatey flavor and soft, moist texture. The combination of ripe bananas and melted chocolate chips adds a delightful sweetness, while the walnuts provide a satisfying crunch. This recipe is a great way to use overripe bananas and is perfect for any occasion, from breakfast to dessert. The simplicity of the recipe ensures that it’s quick to make while delivering bakery-quality results.
Perfect Occasion:
This banana bread is perfect for weekend brunch, a quick weekday breakfast, or a comforting afternoon treat. It’s also an excellent dessert to serve with coffee or tea after a meal. The double chocolate makes it a great treat for chocolate lovers, and it can be easily customized by adding walnuts or other mix-ins.
Decoration Tips:
For a beautiful finish, sprinkle some extra chocolate chips and chopped walnuts on top of the batter before baking. After the bread has cooled, you can drizzle it with melted chocolate or dust it with powdered sugar for an elegant presentation. Slice thick pieces and serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent dessert.
Ingredients (Serves 6-8):
- 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
- 8 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- 1 large egg, room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste
- 1 cup all-purpose flour, sifted
- ½ cup cocoa powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ⅓ cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a 9x5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper or grease it lightly. - Mix the Wet Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, melted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, egg, and vanilla extract. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well combined. - Sift the Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt to prevent lumps and ensure even mixing. - Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a dense loaf. - Fold in the Chocolate Chips:
Gently fold in the chocolate chips, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter. - Pour and Top:
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle chopped walnuts (if using) and a few extra chocolate chips on top for added texture and flavor. - Bake:
Bake the banana bread in the preheated oven for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. - Cool and Serve:
Remove the banana bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. Enjoy warm or at room temperature!
Tips:
- Use very ripe bananas for the best flavor and sweetness.
- Sift the flour to ensure a light, lump-free batter.
- Avoid overmixing the batter to keep the banana bread moist and tender.