Chocolate chip banana bread is one of those irresistible treats that combine the sweetness of ripe bananas with the rich flavor of chocolate. It’s a staple in my kitchen, especially when I have overripe bananas begging to be used up. This recipe stands out for its super moist texture and generous chocolate chip distribution, making it a favorite for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to elevate your baking game without spending all day in the kitchen.
What Makes This Recipe Special
Why should you consider baking this chocolate chip banana bread? For starters, it’s incredibly easy to whip up, making it a fantastic choice for both novice bakers and seasoned pros looking for a quick and delicious treat. The combination of melted butter and oil ensures a moist loaf that stays fresh for days. Plus, this recipe is perfect for using up those ripe bananas that are often neglected at the back of your fruit bowl. Whether you’re preparing for a weekend brunch, a cozy family gathering, or simply treating yourself, this banana bread has you covered.
“I made this chocolate chip banana bread last Sunday, and it was gone in a flash! My kids couldn’t get enough of it, and I loved how easy it was to make. Definitely a keeper!” — Sarah, a happy home baker
Preparing Super Moist Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Recipe
Making this banana bread is straightforward, with just a handful of steps. First, you’ll combine your dry ingredients, then mix the wet ingredients, and finally bring them together for a delightful batter. Here’s a quick overview of how the process unfolds:
- Preheat your oven and prepare your loaf pan.
- Whisk together your dry ingredients in one bowl.
- In a separate bowl, mix your wet ingredients.
- Combine both mixtures and fold in the chocolate chips.
- Bake to perfection and let cool before serving.
This simple process ensures that you get maximum flavor without spending hours in the kitchen.
Gather These Items
To create this delightful chocolate chip banana bread, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 & 1/2 cups (180g) all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (1 stick / 115g) unsalted butter, melted and cooled slightly
- 1/4 cup (60mL) vegetable oil
- 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 & 1/2 cups (360g) mashed ripe bananas (about 3-4 medium-sized bananas)
- 1 cup (170g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
Feel free to swap in whole wheat flour or coconut oil for variations; both work well if you prefer a healthier spin!
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Prepare the Dry Ingredients: Start by whisking together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt in a small bowl. Set this aside.
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Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, vegetable oil, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk everything together until well blended. Next, fold in the mashed bananas.
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Combine Everything: Carefully add the dry mixture into the wet mixture, followed by the chocolate chips. Stir until just combined; be gentle to keep the bread light and fluffy.
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Transfer to Pan: Pour the batter into a prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top evenly.
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Bake: Place the loaf in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 50 to 60 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a skewer into the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs. If the top is browning too quickly, loosely tent it with aluminum foil until fully baked.
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Cool: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
This chocolate chip banana bread is perfect on its own, but there are so many delightful ways to serve it! Enjoy it plain, slathered with a bit of butter, or even paired with a dollop of whipped cream for a decadent dessert. It also makes for a fabulous breakfast option; serve it alongside a steaming cup of coffee or a refreshing glass of milk. For an extra indulgent twist, try toasting slices and topping them with a scoop of ice cream.
How to Store & Freeze
Storing your banana bread correctly is vital to keeping it fresh. Once completely cool, wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap and store it at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want it to last longer, it freezes beautifully! Simply slice the bread, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply let it thaw at room temperature or warm it in the microwave.
Helpful Cooking Tips
Want to make your banana bread even better? Here are some handy tips:
- Make sure your bananas are ripe; they should be speckled and soft for the best flavor.
- Don’t overmix the batter—this can create a dense loaf. Mix just until combined.
- For an added flavor punch, consider adding chopped nuts or a sprinkle of cinnamon to the batter.
- If you don’t have eggs, a flax egg or applesauce can serve as a suitable substitute for moisture.
Creative Twists
Feeling adventurous? Here are a few creative variations you can try:
- Nutty Banana Bread: Add up to 1 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a satisfying crunch.
- Spice it Up: Incorporate spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm flavor profile.
- Nut-Free Version: Instead of nuts, try adding raisins or dried cranberries for a chewy texture.
Your Questions Answered
How long does it take to make this banana bread?
The total prep and baking time is around 1 hour and 10 minutes. However, it varies slightly depending on your oven.
Can I use frozen bananas?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them thoroughly and drain excess liquid before mashing.
How do I know when the bread is done?
Insert a skewer or toothpick into the center; it should come out with moist crumbs but no wet batter.
Can I adjust the sugar in the recipe?
Yes, you can decrease the sugar slightly if you prefer a less sweet bread.
Baking this super moist chocolate chip banana bread can turn any ordinary day into something special. Happy baking!
Chocolate Chip Banana Bread
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled slightly
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups mashed ripe bananas (about 3-4 medium-sized bananas)
Add-ins
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your loaf pan.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Set this aside.
- In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, vegetable oil, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk everything together until well blended, then fold in the mashed bananas.
- Carefully add the dry mixture into the wet mixture, followed by the chocolate chips. Stir until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top evenly.
Baking
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50 to 60 minutes, checking for doneness by inserting a skewer into the center.
- If the top is browning too quickly, loosely tent it with aluminum foil.
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
