Chocolate Chip Banana Bread

There’s something magical about a loaf of moist chocolate chip banana bread fresh from the oven. The warm, comforting aroma fills your kitchen, and every slice reveals a tender crumb dotted with melty chocolate chips. It’s the kind of treat that brings smiles all around.

This easy banana bread is one of my go-to recipes for busy weeknights. It’s a great way to use up overripe bananas and makes a perfect breakfast, snack, or dessert. Plus, it stores beautifully — making it a staple in my kitchen.

Why I Love This Recipe

• Incredibly simple: It comes together quickly, even on a weekday evening.
• Pure comfort flavor: Sweet bananas and melty chocolate chips are a match made in heaven.
• Always a hit: Whether shared with friends or enjoyed with morning coffee, it never disappoints.

Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Ingredients

This chocolate chip banana bread combines humble ingredients into something truly special — soft, moist, and studded with gooey chocolate goodness.

Here’s what you need:

• All-Purpose Flour: The base structure of the bread.
• Baking Soda: Helps the loaf rise and stay light.
• Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
• Unsalted Butter: Adds tenderness and rich flavor.
• Granulated Sugar & Light Brown Sugar: Create the ideal sweetness and moist texture.
• Large Eggs: Provide structure and richness.
• Vanilla Extract: Infuses warm, classic flavor.
• Very Ripe Bananas: The key ingredient for natural sweetness and moisture.
• Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: Give that deliciously melted chocolate in every bite.

Substitutions and Tips

• No light brown sugar? Use granulated sugar — you’ll lose a bit of caramel flavor, but it still works perfectly.
• Out of semi-sweet chips? Try dark, milk, or even white chocolate chips.
• Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg for extra warmth.
• The riper the bananas, the moister the loaf — brown and spotty is best!

How to Make Chocolate Chip Banana Bread

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or cooking spray, then dust lightly with flour to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with granulated and brown sugars using an electric mixer until light and fluffy. This step ensures a tender, moist loaf.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract for that cozy aroma and flavor.

Step 5: Incorporate Mashed Bananas

Add the mashed bananas to the butter mixture and mix until just combined. Use very ripe bananas for the best taste and texture.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture on low speed. Mix only until the flour disappears to avoid overmixing, which can make the bread dense.

Step 7: Fold in Chocolate Chips

Gently fold in the chocolate chips using a spatula, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 8: Pour and Spread Batter

Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it into the corners for an even bake.

Step 9: Bake the Bread

Bake for 60–70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top browns too quickly, loosely cover it with foil to prevent overbaking.

Step 10: Cool the Loaf

Let the bread cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Allow it to cool completely for easier slicing and the best texture.

Step 11: Slice and Serve

Slice once fully cooled and enjoy! Each bite is moist, chocolatey, and utterly irresistible.

How to Store Chocolate Chip Banana Bread

Wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap and store it at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it again in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Tips for Success

• Use very ripe bananas for the best flavor and moisture.
• Measure flour correctly — spoon it into the cup, then level it off.
• Do not overmix once the flour is added.
• Check doneness with a toothpick.
• Cool completely before slicing to avoid crumbling.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

• 9×5-inch loaf pan
• Medium and large mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wire rack for cooling
• Spatula

Serving Suggestions

• Serve warm with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey.
• Pair with coffee, tea, or a glass of milk.
• Top with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert.
• Enjoy as a sweet breakfast on the go.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this Chocolate Chip Banana Bread ahead of time?

Yes! It keeps well for several days, making it perfect for meal prep or unexpected guests. Wrap tightly once cooled to lock in freshness.

What’s the best way to mash bananas?

Use a fork or potato masher to mash overripe bananas until mostly smooth with a few small lumps for texture. The riper the bananas, the better the flavor.

Can I freeze Chocolate Chip Banana Bread?

Yes. Cool the loaf completely before wrapping it in plastic wrap, then foil, or use a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months and thaw at room temperature before serving.

Why did my banana bread turn out dense?

Overmixing the batter can make the bread dense. Mix just until the ingredients combine. Also, make sure your baking soda is fresh and your bananas are ripe.

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