Are you searching for the best chocolate chip banana bread recipe that’s soft, deliciously moist, and packed with chocolatey goodness? Look no further! This easy-to-make treat blends ripe bananas with sweet chocolate chips for a delightful twist on traditional banana bread. Whether it’s for breakfast, dessert, or a quick snack, you’re sure to love every bite. Keep reading to learn how to whip up this crowd-pleasing recipe!
Ingredients List
Wet Ingredients:
- 3 ripe bananas (mashed until smooth)
- 1/2 cup melted butter (or substitute with vegetable oil for a lighter option)
- 1 cup granulated sugar (feel free to reduce to 3/4 cup if preferred)
- 2 large eggs (room temperature is best)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional for added warmth)
- 1 cup chocolate chips (use semi-sweet or milk chocolate)
Step-by-Step Directions for Baking
Preheat & Prepare:
Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for effortless removal.Mash the Bananas:
Use a fork to mash the ripe bananas in a large bowl until no large chunks remain.Mix the Wet Ingredients:
Add melted butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract to the mashed bananas. Whisk until everything is evenly blended.Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, mix the flour, baking soda, salt, and optional cinnamon. Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, taking care not to overmix.Incorporate the Chocolate Chips:
Gently fold in the chocolate chips, reserving a small handful to sprinkle on top.Bake:
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle any reserved chocolate chips on top. Bake for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few crumbs.Cool & Serve:
Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve warm or at room temperature.
Tips for the Perfect Chocolate Chip Banana Bread
- Overripe Bananas Are Best: The browner and spottier the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful the bread.
- Mixing Matters: Avoid overmixing the batter, which can lead to a dense texture.
- Optional Add-Ins: Try mixing in chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
- Storage Advice: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
Suggested Internal Links
- Quick Bread Recipes for Busy Days
- Using Overripe Bananas for Maximum Flavor
- Top Tips for Baking Perfectly Moist Bread
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just replace all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Q: How can I make this dairy-free?
You can substitute the butter with coconut oil or dairy-free margarine and use dairy-free chocolate chips.
Conclusion
This best chocolate chip banana bread recipe is a sure hit with its rich flavor, easy preparation, and moist texture. Perfect for any time of day, it’s sure to become a household staple. Give it a try and let us know how you enjoyed it!