Name: Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 ripe bananas, mashed; 1/2 cup melted butter; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup chocolate chips

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe· 4.3 from 72 reviews

If you’ve ever been on the hunt for the ultimate comfort bake, allow me to introduce you to this irresistible Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Recipe. It’s that perfect blend of moist, sweet banana goodness paired with bursts of melty chocolate chips, creating a loaf that feels like a warm hug with every bite. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just dipping your toes into baking, this recipe is straightforward, dependable, and absolutely delicious—guaranteed to become a favorite in your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple, yet essential ingredients is the first step toward baking a loaf that’s both flavorful and perfectly textured. Each one plays a starring role—ripe bananas provide natural sweetness and moisture, while chocolate chips introduce delightful pockets of rich indulgence.

3 ripe bananas (mashed): The sweeter, the better—overripe bananas add a deep, natural sweetness and incredible moisture to your bread.
1/2 cup melted butter: Adds richness and keeps the bread tender and soft.
3/4 cup granulated sugar: Balances the natural banana sweetness and helps achieve a golden crust.
1 large egg: Acts as a binder and contributes to the bread’s structure and fluffiness.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the sweet flavors and adds a warm aroma.
1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the bread rise and stay light.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Elevates all the flavors and keeps the sweetness in check.
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The base that holds everything together with just the right density.
1 cup chocolate chips: For those luscious bites of gooey, melty chocolate throughout the loaf.

How to Make Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready when your batter is mixed. Don’t forget to grease your loaf pan well—this will help the bread release easily once it’s baked and cooled.

Step 2: Mix Bananas and Butter

In a large mixing bowl, mash up the ripe bananas until mostly smooth. Add the melted butter right after—it adds that buttery richness which complements the bananas perfectly.

Step 3: Add Sugar, Egg, and Vanilla

Stir in the granulated sugar, followed by the egg and vanilla extract. These ingredients enrich the batter and balance all the flavors beautifully.

Step 4: Incorporate Baking Soda and Salt

Sprinkle the baking soda and salt over your mixture. This step is crucial since baking soda helps your bread rise perfectly while salt amplifies every flavor for that deep, satisfying taste.

Step 5: Fold in Flour

Carefully fold in the all-purpose flour, mixing until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense bread, so gentle and minimal stirring is key here.

Step 6: Add Chocolate Chips

Fold in those beautiful chocolate chips last. They add that iconic texture and bursts of sweetness that make this Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Recipe truly special.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Pour your batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 55 to 60 minutes. Keep an eye out for a golden brown crust and test doneness by inserting a toothpick—it should come out mostly clean, with perhaps a few moist crumbs.

Step 8: Cool and Slice

Allow your loaf to cool in the pan for about 15-20 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack. Cooling before slicing helps the bread set beautifully, making every slice look and taste perfect.

How to Serve Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Recipe

Garnishes

A simple dusting of powdered sugar or a sprinkle of extra chocolate chips on top can elevate your loaf’s appearance and flavor. For a decadent touch, spread a little softened butter or cream cheese on a warm slice.

Side Dishes

This bread pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or tea, making it an ideal breakfast treat or afternoon pick-me-up. For a heartier brunch, serve alongside fresh fruit or yogurt to balance the sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

Try slicing the banana bread and using it as a base for mini dessert sandwiches by adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream or layering with peanut butter. You can also toast slices lightly and serve with a drizzle of honey or almond butter for a fresh twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap your banana bread tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to keep it moist. Stored at room temperature, it will stay fresh for up to 3 days.

Freezing

If you want your Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Recipe to last longer, wrap it well in foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag. It freezes wonderfully for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying.

Reheating

Warm slices in a toaster oven or microwave for a few seconds to revive that fresh-baked softness. Adding a small pat of butter before reheating can make each bite even more heavenly.

FAQs

Can I use regular bananas instead of ripe or overripe bananas?

For the best flavor and moist texture, overripe bananas are highly recommended. Regular bananas can work but won’t provide the same natural sweetness or depth of flavor.

Is it okay to substitute the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour?

You can substitute whole wheat flour if you prefer a nuttier flavor and more fiber, but the bread might be denser and less moist. Using half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour can be a great middle ground.

Can I add nuts or dried fruits to this recipe?

Absolutely! Walnuts, pecans, or dried cranberries make excellent additions and add lovely texture contrasts. Just fold them in with the chocolate chips to keep the mix balanced.

How do I know when my banana bread is fully baked?

Use a toothpick test: insert a toothpick in the center of the loaf, and if it comes out mostly clean with only a few moist crumbs, your bread is done. The top should also be golden brown and spring back when lightly touched.

Can this recipe be made vegan?

With some swaps like flax or chia eggs and dairy-free butter, yes! Just note the texture and flavor will vary slightly, but it can still be wonderfully tasty.

Final Thoughts

Baking this Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Recipe is like inviting a little joy into your kitchen—the simplicity, the aroma, and that first blissful bite combine into a truly special experience. Whether for sharing with loved ones or savoring on your own, I encourage you to give this recipe a try; it just might become your most treasured homemade treat.