Introduction
Banana bread is a classic, comforting treat that’s perfect for breakfast, a snack, or dessert. This Chocolate Chip Banana Bread takes it up a notch with the addition of rich chocolate chips, making it a deliciously indulgent twist on the traditional recipe. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is easy to follow and delivers moist, flavorful banana bread every time.
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
How to Make Chocolate Chip Banana Bread
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×5-inch loaf pan by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper.
- Mix the Wet Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas and melted butter. Stir until the mixture is smooth.
- Add the granulated sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract to the bowl. Mix until everything is well combined and smooth.
- Add the Dry Ingredients:
- Sprinkle the baking soda and a pinch of salt over the wet mixture. Stir gently to combine.
- Gradually fold in the all-purpose flour, mixing just until the flour is incorporated. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the bread dense.
- Add the Chocolate Chips:
- Fold the chocolate chips into the batter, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Bake the Bread:
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 60-65 minutes. To check if it’s done, insert a toothpick into the center of the bread; it should come out clean. If the top begins to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil for the remainder of the baking time.
- Cool and Serve:
- Allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, slice the bread and enjoy!
Helpful Tips
- Ripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be. Bananas with lots of brown spots are ideal.
- Don’t Overmix: When adding the flour, mix just until the ingredients are combined. Overmixing can result in a dense, tough bread.
- Add-ins: Feel free to customize your banana bread by adding nuts, like walnuts or pecans, along with or instead of the chocolate chips.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen bananas?
- Yes, frozen bananas work well for this recipe. Let them thaw completely, then drain any excess liquid before mashing.
How can I make this banana bread healthier?
- You can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour and use a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup instead of granulated sugar. Keep in mind that these changes may slightly alter the texture and flavor.
What if I don’t have chocolate chips?
- You can chop up a chocolate bar into small pieces or leave out the chocolate altogether for a more traditional banana bread.
Storage Instructions
- Room Temperature: Store the banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerator: For longer storage, refrigerate the bread for up to a week. Wrap it in plastic wrap or foil to keep it from drying out.
- Freezer: To freeze, wrap the banana bread tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe bag. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or in the refrigerator before serving.