Banana Bread with Mini Chocolate Chips Recipe

Name: Banana Bread with Mini Chocolate Chips Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 1 loaf
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 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips

Highlighted under: Sweet Baking Recipes

I absolutely love baking banana bread, especially when it's loaded with mini chocolate chips. There's something magical about the combination of sweet, ripe bananas and rich, creamy chocolate that brings a smile to my face. This recipe is not only easy to follow, but it also results in a moist, flavorful loaf that I can enjoy at breakfast, snack time, or dessert. Plus, it’s a great way to use up overripe bananas and make something delicious that everyone will love!

Created by

Jessica Brown

Last updated on 2026-01-05T22:09:34.673Z

My journey with this banana bread recipe started when I had a few overly ripe bananas sitting on my counter. I wanted to create something delicious that would not only satisfy my cravings but also make use of those bananas. Adding mini chocolate chips elevated the flavor and texture, transforming a classic recipe into a delightful treat.

Throughout the baking process, I've learned that letting the bananas get really ripe enhances their natural sweetness. This also ensures that the bread stays moist and tender. Trust me, this method works beautifully; just remember to keep an eye on it in the oven to avoid over-baking!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
The comforting aroma of bananas and chocolate fills your kitchen.
The texture is wonderfully moist with delightful bursts of melted chocolate.
It's a fantastic way to repurpose ripe bananas into a beloved treat.

Understanding Your Ingredients

Bananas are the star of this recipe, providing natural sweetness and moisture. Choose overripe bananas with dark spots, as they have the sweetest flavor. The amount of bananas can vary slightly based on size, but around three medium bananas should yield about one cup when mashed. For the best results, ensure they are fully mashed to create a uniform batter that incorporates easily with other ingredients.

The butter adds richness and helps create a soft texture in the final bread. Melted butter is ideal as it blends smoothly with the rest of the ingredients. If you prefer a lighter option, you can replace some of the butter with applesauce, but keep in mind this may alter the flavor slightly. Be cautious, as too much substitution can lead to drier bread.

Techniques for a Perfect Loaf

When mixing the wet ingredients, avoid overmixing once you add the flour. Stir gently until just combined to keep the texture light. Overmixing can lead to dense banana bread; you want a nice rise with a tender crumb. It's okay if there are a few lumps in the batter. The goal is to create air pockets that will help the bread rise beautifully in the oven.

Baking time can vary, so it's crucial to check for doneness before the timer goes off. Ovens can have hot spots that cause uneven cooking, so rotate the loaf pan halfway through the baking process for even heat distribution. When the toothpick comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, remove it from the oven to prevent overbaking, which could dry out your banana bread.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

Once cooled, store your banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months. To enjoy a slice from the freezer, simply let it sit at room temperature to thaw or warm it gently in the microwave for a few seconds—perfect for a quick breakfast or snack.

This banana bread can also be jazzed up with additional mix-ins like chopped nuts or dried fruit for a different texture. Try adding walnuts for a crunchy contrast to the soft bread. Or, if you want a more indulgent option, consider drizzling melted chocolate on top after it has cooled for an extra chocolatey treat.

Ingredients

For the Banana Bread

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 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup mini chocolate chips

Mix well to combine all ingredients for a perfect texture.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 4x8 inch loaf pan.

Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth. Stir in the melted butter, then mix in the baking soda and salt.

Add Sugar and Egg

Mix in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.

Combine with Flour

Stir in the flour until just incorporated. Then fold in the mini chocolate chips.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 60 minutes. Check with a toothpick for doneness; it should come out clean.

Cool and Serve

Once baked, let the banana bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Your delicious banana bread is ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider sprinkling some chopped nuts or cinnamon into the batter before baking.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One common mistake is using cold ingredients straight from the refrigerator. Make sure your butter is melted and not solid, and if possible, allow eggs to come to room temperature as well. This helps in creating a smooth batter that binds well and enhances the bread’s final texture.

Another pitfall is using unripe bananas, which won't provide the same depth of flavor and sweetness. If you find yourself with firmer bananas, try placing them in a paper bag for a day or two; this can speed up the ripening process significantly and help you achieve that sweet flavor.

Flavor Variations to Experiment With

Feel free to experiment with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to add warmth to your banana bread. Just a teaspoon can add a delightful complexity to the flavor profile. Additionally, you could substitute a portion of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier loaf that still retains moisture and a tender crumb.

If you're looking for a healthier option, consider using honey or maple syrup in place of granulated sugar. Keep in mind that both of these substitutes add liquid to the batter, so you may need to slightly reduce the butter to maintain the right consistency.

Serving Ideas

Banana bread is not just a breakfast food; it makes a versatile snack any time of the day. Consider slicing it and toasting it lightly with a bit of butter for a warm treat. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea, making it an excellent choice for cozy evenings or brunch gatherings with friends.

For a more indulgent dessert, serve slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. You could also layer it with yogurt and fresh berries for a delicious parfait that’s both healthy and satisfying. The chocolate chips provide just the right sweetness to complement whichever serving style you choose.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas?

Yes, frozen bananas work well! Just thaw them and make sure to drain any excess liquid before mashing.

→ How can I store leftover banana bread?

Wrap the banana bread tightly in plastic wrap and store it at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Can I substitute brown sugar for white sugar?

Absolutely! Brown sugar adds a hint of caramel flavor to the banana bread.

→ Can this recipe be made gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free all-purpose flour blends for a gluten-free option.