Banana Bread with Mini Chocolate Chips Recipe
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
This Banana Bread with Mini Chocolate Chips Recipe is the perfect blend of sweet bananas and rich chocolate, making it a delightful treat for any time of the day.
This banana bread combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the indulgence of mini chocolate chips, creating a moist and flavorful loaf that's perfect for breakfast or dessert.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich chocolate flavor paired with sweet, ripe bananas
- Moist and tender crumb that melts in your mouth
- Easy to make with simple ingredients
- Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert
The Perfect Snack for Any Occasion
Banana bread is one of those versatile treats that can be enjoyed at any time of day. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast option, a midday snack, or a sweet dessert after dinner, this Banana Bread with Mini Chocolate Chips fits the bill perfectly. The combination of moist banana and rich chocolate creates a delightful flavor profile that appeals to both kids and adults alike.
What’s more, this recipe is incredibly easy to make. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch in no time. The straightforward steps ensure that even novice bakers can feel confident in their baking skills. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up overripe bananas that might otherwise go to waste.
Healthier Indulgence
While banana bread is often viewed as a guilty pleasure, this recipe allows you to indulge without the heavy guilt. The natural sweetness of ripe bananas means you can use less sugar compared to other cakes and desserts. Additionally, bananas are packed with vitamins and minerals, making this treat a bit healthier than other options.
By incorporating mini chocolate chips, you get a delightful burst of chocolate flavor without overwhelming the banana taste. This balance not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also keeps the overall calorie count in check, making it an excellent choice for those who want a lighter treat.
Storage and Serving Suggestions
Once baked, let your banana bread cool completely before storing it. You can keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate it for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then placed in a zip-top bag. This way, you can enjoy a slice anytime you crave a sweet treat.
When serving, consider adding a spread of butter or cream cheese for an extra layer of flavor. You can also toast slices for a warm, crispy treat. Pair your banana bread with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon snack or breakfast option.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious banana bread:
Ingredients
- 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 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
Make sure to have all ingredients at room temperature for the best results.
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to bake your banana bread:
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 4x8 inch loaf pan.
Mix Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth. Stir the melted butter into the mashed bananas.
Add Sugar and Egg
Mix in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Combine Dry Ingredients
Sprinkle the baking soda and salt over the mixture and mix in. Add the flour, mixing until just incorporated. Fold in the mini chocolate chips.
Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool and Serve
Let the banana bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Enjoy your homemade banana bread with a cup of coffee or tea!
Tips for Perfect Banana Bread
To achieve the best flavor and texture, use very ripe bananas that are heavily speckled or even black. This ensures maximum sweetness and moisture in your bread. You can also mash the bananas in advance and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake, making the process even easier.
Avoid over-mixing the batter once you add the flour, as this can lead to dense banana bread. Mix until just combined, and don’t worry if there are a few lumps—this is what keeps the bread light and fluffy!
Variations to Try
Feel free to experiment with this basic recipe by adding nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for added crunch. You can also substitute some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier twist and a nuttier flavor.
For a fun spin, try incorporating spices like cinnamon or nutmeg into the batter. These spices complement the flavor of the bananas beautifully and can elevate the taste of your banana bread to a whole new level.
Questions About Recipes
→ How do I know when the banana bread is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the bread; if it comes out clean, it’s ready.
→ Can I use frozen bananas?
Yes, just make sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before mashing.
→ How should I store the banana bread?
Keep it wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for up to a week.
→ Can I freeze banana bread?
Absolutely! Wrap it tightly in plastic and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw before serving.
Banana Bread with Mini Chocolate Chips Recipe
This Banana Bread with Mini Chocolate Chips Recipe is the perfect blend of sweet bananas and rich chocolate, making it a delightful treat for any time of the day.
Created by: Poppy Walsh
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 1 loaf
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 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 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 4x8 inch loaf pan.
In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth. Stir the melted butter into the mashed bananas.
Mix in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Sprinkle the baking soda and salt over the mixture and mix in. Add the flour, mixing until just incorporated. Fold in the mini chocolate chips.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the banana bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g