Double Chocolate Banana Bread
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Satisfy your sweet tooth with this decadent Double Chocolate Banana Bread recipe. Bursting with rich chocolate flavor and the natural sweetness of ripe bananas, this moist and fudgy treat is perfect for breakfast, dessert, or snacking anytime. Easy to make and entirely irresistible, it’s a delightful way to use up overripe bananas while indulging in a chocolate lover’s dream.
Double Chocolate Banana Bread is a delightful twist on the classic banana bread, featuring the added richness of chocolate. This recipe has been a family favorite for years, often requested for brunches and gatherings. The combination of bananas and chocolate creates the perfect balance of sweetness and moisture, guaranteeing a treat that everyone will love.
The Perfect Blend of Flavors
Double Chocolate Banana Bread is the epitome of indulgence. The combination of ripe bananas and rich chocolate creates a unique flavor profile that satisfies even the most discerning sweet tooth. As the bread bakes, the aroma of chocolate fills your kitchen, inviting everyone to enjoy a slice. With its moist texture and fudgy consistency, this bread is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Every bite offers a delightful mix of flavors with the natural sweetness of bananas complementing the deep richness of cocoa. The addition of chocolate chips enhances the experience, adding bursts of creamy chocolate throughout each slice. This bread is not only a treat but also a comforting option that feels warm and inviting.
Why Overripe Bananas Are Key
Ripe bananas are one of the best-kept secrets to baking moist and flavorful banana bread. As bananas ripen, their starches break down into sugars, which sweeten the bread naturally. Using overripe bananas means you’ll achieve that perfect balance of sweetness without needing to add excessive sugar.
Moreover, the natural sweetness of ripe bananas means you can reduce added sugars in your recipe, making it a healthier choice. They also contribute to the moist texture that makes banana bread so irresistible. If you have overripe bananas sitting on your counter, it's the perfect time to whip up this Double Chocolate Banana Bread.
Tips for the Best Banana Bread
To achieve the best results, make sure your bananas are fully ripe. They should have dark spots and a strong banana aroma. The more overripe they are, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be. If you find yourself with an excess of overripe bananas, you can freeze them for future baking, just remember to thaw and drain excess moisture before using.
Another tip is to avoid overmixing your batter once you add the dry ingredients. Stir just until everything is combined to ensure a tender loaf. For added texture, you could experiment with different types of chocolate chips or even add nuts for a delicious crunch. Don’t hesitate to get creative and make this recipe your own!
Ingredients
For the Banana Bread
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
Mix all the ingredients together in a large bowl, and you’re ready to bake!
Instructions
Prep the Oven and Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 4x8 inch loaf pan.
Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth. Stir in the melted butter.
Combine Ingredients
Add baking soda and salt to the mixture. Mix in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract. Then, stir in the flour and cocoa powder until just combined.
Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 55-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool and Serve
Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Slice and enjoy!
Serve with butter or enjoy plain as a delicious snack!
Storing Your Banana Bread
Proper storage is key to maintaining the freshness of your Double Chocolate Banana Bread. When the bread has cooled completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it moist. You can store it at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing slices of banana bread. Simply wrap them individually, and they will remain fresh for up to three months.
When you're ready to enjoy your frozen banana bread, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or leave it at room temperature for a few hours. You can also reheat slices in the microwave for a warm, comforting treat whenever you want a sweet snack.
Serving Suggestions
Double Chocolate Banana Bread is delicious on its own, but it can be elevated with a few simple serving suggestions. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can turn your slice into a decadent dessert. You could also drizzle melted dark chocolate over the top for extra indulgence.
For breakfast, consider spreading a layer of almond butter or cream cheese on your banana bread for a satisfying start to your day. Pair it with a hot cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk for a delightful treat that works for any meal!
Variations to Try
While the classic Double Chocolate Banana Bread is irresistible, there are numerous ways to personalize the recipe. Try adding different mix-ins such as walnuts, pecans, or dried fruits for added texture and flavor. Adjust the cocoa powder quantity to experiment with varying levels of chocolate richness.
If you're feeling adventurous, consider incorporating flavored extracts or spices, such as espresso powder for a mocha twist or cinnamon for a warm spice note. These variations will not only enhance the flavor but also give the banana bread a unique touch each time you bake it.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen bananas?
Yes, just make sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before mashing.
→ How do I store the banana bread?
Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Double Chocolate Banana Bread
Satisfy your sweet tooth with this decadent Double Chocolate Banana Bread recipe. Bursting with rich chocolate flavor and the natural sweetness of ripe bananas, this moist and fudgy treat is perfect for breakfast, dessert, or snacking anytime. Easy to make and entirely irresistible, it’s a delightful way to use up overripe bananas while indulging in a chocolate lover’s dream.
Created by: Ruby Lawson
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 1 loaf
What You'll Need
For the Banana Bread
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 4x8 inch loaf pan.
In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth. Stir in the melted butter.
Add baking soda and salt to the mixture. Mix in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract. Then, stir in the flour and cocoa powder until just combined. Fold in the chocolate chips.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 55-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Slice and enjoy!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 50g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 30g
- Protein: 4g