Chocolate Chip Banana Bread

This chocolate chip banana bread is moist, sweet, and packed with rich chocolatey goodness in every bite. Made with ripe bananas and simple pantry staples, it’s perfect for any time of day.

If you’re anything like me, you probably end up with a few overripe bananas sitting on the counter every week. Instead of tossing them out, I’ll use them for chocolate chip banana bread. It’s warm, comforting, and fills the house with the most irresistible smell.

What I love most about this recipe is how easy it is to throw together with ingredients I already have in the pantry. There’s no fancy equipment or complicated steps, just a simple mix, bake, and enjoy. The chocolate chips take it to the next level, making each slice feel like a little treat—something both kids and adults in my house can’t resist.

I’ve been making this chocolate chip banana bread for years, and it never fails to get compliments. It’s my go-to when guests come over or when I want to give something homemade as a gift. If you’ve got ripe bananas and a bit of time, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen, just like it has in mine.

Items Needed

Here’s what you’ll need to make chocolate chip banana bread:

• Salted butter – Adds richness and moisture while the salt enhances overall flavor.
• Granulated sugar – Sweetens the bread and helps create a tender crumb.
• Eggs – Provide structure and help bind the ingredients together.
• Milk – Adds moisture and helps create a soft texture.
• All-purpose flour – Forms the base and structure of the bread.
• Baking powder – Helps the bread rise for a light and fluffy texture.
• Baking soda – Reacts with the banana’s natural acidity to help the bread rise.
• Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
• Cinnamon – Adds warmth and depth of flavor to the bread.
• Bananas – Provide natural sweetness, moisture, and a soft, dense texture.
• Vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor with a subtle sweetness.
• Chocolate chips – Add melty, sweet bites that pair perfectly with banana flavor.

Ways To Customize

Here are some easy ways to customize this chocolate chip banana bread recipe:

• Add nuts – Stir in chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch and extra flavor.
• Use different chips – Swap chocolate chips with white chocolate, peanut butter, or butterscotch chips.
• Mix in dried fruit – Add raisins, dried cranberries, or chopped dates for natural sweetness.
• Try a swirl – Add a swirl of peanut butter, Nutella, or cream cheese for a fun twist.
• Top it off – Sprinkle oats, coarse sugar, or more chocolate chips on top before baking for added texture.
• Make it gluten-free – Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to make it suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
• Use browned butter – Swap regular butter for browned butter to add a rich, nutty flavor.
• Add spices – Enhance the flavor with nutmeg, ginger, or cardamom for a cozy twist.

How To Make It

Storage

To store chocolate chip banana bread, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It can be kept at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze it by wrapping individual slices in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

To reheat, simply microwave a slice for about 15–20 seconds or warm it in a toaster oven until heated through—it’ll taste just like freshly baked.

Helpful Hints

More Helpful Hints:

• Use overripe bananas with lots of brown spots for the best flavor and sweetness.
• Make sure your butter is at room temperature so it creams smoothly with the sugar.
• Line your loaf pan with parchment paper for easy removal and less cleanup.
• Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, it’s ready.
• Let the bread cool before slicing to prevent it from crumbling or falling apart.

Serving Suggestions

Chocolate chip banana bread is perfect on its own, warm from the oven or at room temperature. For a classic pairing, serve it with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a cozy breakfast or mid-morning snack. You can also enjoy it as a quick and satisfying dessert after dinner—just add a drizzle of chocolate sauce or a dusting of powdered sugar for a little extra flair.

For a more filling breakfast or brunch spread, serve a slice alongside a savory dish like my Smoked Salmon Frittata. The balance of sweet and savory makes it perfect for weekends or entertaining. You could also toast a slice and spread it with butter, cream cheese, or peanut butter for a rich and satisfying twist.

If you’re in the mood for something indulgent, enjoy it with a warm mug of my rich Drinking Chocolate for the ultimate cozy treat. It also makes a great addition to dessert boards—cut into cubes with toothpicks, or pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for guests. However you serve it, this banana bread always brings comfort and a touch of sweetness to the table.

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