Chocolate Banana Bread is a delightful fusion of flavors that brings together the sweetness of ripe bananas and rich cocoa powder. This moist, rich, and wholesome loaf is not just a treat but also a healthy option for breakfast or dessert. Made with ripe bananas, cocoa powder, and chocolate chips, it’s naturally sweetened and can easily be turned into a dairy-free option. Whether you’re looking to indulge in a delicious slice or want to serve something special for brunch, this recipe is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Banana Bread

This Chocolate Banana Bread is not only delicious but offers several benefits that make it a favorite among many. First, it’s incredibly moist, thanks to the ripe bananas and melted coconut oil or butter. Second, the addition of cocoa powder elevates it to a rich chocolate experience. Third, it can easily be adapted into a gluten-free chocolate banana bread by using gluten-free flour. Fourth, the recipe incorporates healthy ingredients like maple syrup, making it a better choice than traditional baked goods. Additionally, it’s versatile; you can add nuts for crunch or chocolate chips for extra sweetness. Lastly, it’s simple to make, making it the best chocolate banana bread recipe for new bakers.

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Ingredients for Chocolate Banana Bread

Gather these items:

3 ripe bananas, mashed (about 1¼ cups)
⅓ cup melted coconut oil or unsalted butter
½ cup maple syrup or honey
2 large eggs, room temperature
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
½ cup whole wheat flour
⅓ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 tsp baking soda
½ tsp sea salt
½ tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
½ cup chocolate chips (dairy-free if needed)
Optional: chopped walnuts or pecans

How to Make Chocolate Banana Bread Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
Step 2: Mash bananas in a bowl. Whisk in the melted oil, maple syrup, eggs, and vanilla.
Step 3: In a separate bowl, whisk the flours, cocoa powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
Step 4: Gently fold dry ingredients into wet ingredients until just combined.
Step 5: Fold in chocolate chips and optional nuts.
Step 6: Pour batter into the pan and bake for 50–60 minutes, until a toothpick comes out mostly clean.
Step 7: Cool for 10 minutes in the pan, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Pro Tips for the Best Chocolate Banana Bread

Keep these in mind:

This recipe can be made dairy-free by using dairy-free chocolate chips.
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
For a moist chocolate banana loaf, ensure your bananas are very ripe.
Experiment with different add-ins like nuts or yogurt for added flavor and texture.

Best Ways to Serve Chocolate Banana Bread

There are numerous ways to enjoy your Chocolate Banana Bread. Serve it warm, straight from the oven, or toasted with a pat of butter for a comforting snack. For a delightful breakfast, pair it with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a spread of cream cheese frosting. You can also serve it with fresh fruits or a drizzle of maple syrup for a sweet treat.

How to Store and Reheat Chocolate Banana Bread

To keep your Chocolate Banana Bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze it for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or reheat individual slices in the microwave for a quick treat.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chocolate Banana Bread

What’s the secret to perfect Chocolate Banana Bread?

The secret to perfect Chocolate Banana Bread lies in using very ripe bananas. The riper the bananas, the sweeter and moister your bread will be. Additionally, don’t over-mix the batter; fold in the dry ingredients just until combined to keep the texture light.

Can I make Chocolate Banana Bread ahead of time?

Yes, you can make Chocolate Banana Bread ahead of time. It actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just store it properly, and it will stay moist and delicious.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Chocolate Banana Bread?

To avoid common mistakes, make sure to measure your ingredients accurately and don’t over-mix the batter. Over-mixing can lead to a dense loaf. Also, check your bread for doneness using a toothpick to ensure it’s baked perfectly.

Variations of Chocolate Banana Bread You Can Try

Get creative with your Chocolate Banana Bread by trying these variations. Consider making a chocolate banana bread with nuts for added crunch, or add yogurt for a moist texture. You can also experiment with different types of chocolate chips or include spices like nutmeg for a unique flavor profile. For a healthy twist, substitute some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour.

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For more delicious recipes, check out our recipe category or try making easy cinnamon rolls for a delightful breakfast treat. If you’re interested in healthy options, consider our Mediterranean chickpea salad for a nutritious side dish.

For additional tips on baking, you can refer to King Arthur Baking’s guide on baking tips.

Irresistible Chocolate Banana Bread Recipe to Savor

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Healthy Chocolate Banana Bread is a moist, rich, and wholesome loaf made with ripe bananas, cocoa powder, and chocolate chips. Naturally sweetened and easy to make dairy-free, this better-for-you banana bread is perfect for breakfast, snacking, or dessert.

Author: Emily
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Yield: 1 loaf 1x
Category: Baking
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

3 ripe bananas, mashed (about 1¼ cups)
⅓ cup melted coconut oil or unsalted butter
½ cup maple syrup or honey
2 large eggs, room temperature
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
½ cup whole wheat flour
⅓ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 tsp baking soda
½ tsp sea salt
½ tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
½ cup chocolate chips (dairy-free if needed)
Optional: chopped walnuts or pecans

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
Mash bananas in a bowl. Whisk in melted oil, maple syrup, eggs, and vanilla.
In a separate bowl, whisk flours, cocoa powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
Gently fold dry ingredients into wet ingredients until just combined.
Fold in chocolate chips and optional nuts.
Pour batter into pan and bake 50–60 minutes, until a toothpick comes out mostly clean.
Cool 10 minutes in pan, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.