Craving something sweet and satisfying? Look no further than this delightful chocolate chip banana bread! Bursting with flavor and wonderfully moist, this recipe is perfect for using up overripe bananas. The combination of chocolate chips adds a decadent twist that elevates the classic banana bread to new heights. Enjoy it warm with a pat of butter or as a quick grab-and-go snack. Let’s dive into the details of this irresistible treat!
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 chocolate chips
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 1 loaf, which serves about 8 slices. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, with a cooking time of 60 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (1 slice):
- Calories: 180
- Protein: 2g
- Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
This nutritional information is based on a single slice of banana bread.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 4×8 inch loaf pan.
- In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth.
- Add melted butter to the mashed bananas and mix well.
- Stir in the baking soda and salt.
- Add sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract to the mixture, combining thoroughly.
- Gradually mix in the flour until just incorporated; do not overmix.
- Fold in the chocolate chips gently.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 60 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option. Additionally, use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for a richer flavor. For a vegan version, replace the egg with flaxseed meal mixed with water.
Serving and Pairings
This chocolate chip banana bread pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea. You can also serve it with fresh fruit or a dollop of yogurt for a balanced snack.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t use unripe bananas; the riper, the better for flavor.
- Avoid overmixing the batter to keep the bread tender.
- Make sure your baking soda is fresh for proper rising.
- Don’t skip the cooling time; it enhances the flavor.
- Check the bread a few minutes before the end of the baking time.
Helpful Tips
- Use a toothpick to check for doneness.
- Let the bananas sit until they’re very ripe for maximum sweetness.
- For added texture, mix in nuts or dried fruit.
- Try adding spices like cinnamon for additional flavor.
- Always measure ingredients accurately for best results.
FAQs
Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen bananas. Just thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before mashing.
How can I make this banana bread gluten-free?
You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that the blend contains xanthan gum for stability.
What can I do if my banana bread is too dense?
If your banana bread turns out dense, it may be due to overmixing or too much flour. Make sure to mix just until combined.
Can I add nuts to this recipe?
Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans make a delicious addition to the batter.
How long does banana bread last?
When stored properly, banana bread can last 4 days at room temperature or up to 3 months in the freezer.
Conclusion
This chocolate chip banana bread is a delightful treat that combines the sweet flavor of bananas with rich chocolate chips, creating a moist and delicious loaf perfect for any time of day. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite!
Chocolate Chip 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 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
Instructions
- 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.
- Add melted butter to the mashed bananas and mix well.
- Stir in the baking soda and salt.
- Add sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract to the mixture, combining thoroughly.
- Gradually mix in the flour until just incorporated; do not overmix.
- Fold in the chocolate chips gently.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 60 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
