Double Chocolate Banana Bread: A Timeless Treat
There’s something utterly magical about the combination of rich chocolate and ripe bananas, especially when transformed into a soft, tender loaf of Double Chocolate Banana Bread. This recipe encapsulates comfort and nostalgia, perfectly marrying the sweetness of bananas with luscious semi-sweet chocolate. Each slice offers a moist, decadent experience that is as indulgent as it is satisfying. Whether you’re seeking a quick breakfast treat, an afternoon snack, or a dessert that evokes memories of childhood baking, this banana bread is worth making. It’s fast, kid-friendly, and simply irresistible—who wouldn’t want a slice?
Craving Something Sweet?
Have you ever found yourself staring at overripe bananas, wondering how to transform them into something utterly delicious? If you’ve ever felt that pang of longing for a sweet treat that’s both comforting and indulgent, imagine biting into warm, chocolatey banana bread that seems to melt in your mouth. Can you already taste the gooey chocolate chips swirling through the dense banana goodness? It’s that perfect combination of flavors that beckons you to the kitchen!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Double Chocolate Banana Bread is an absolute delight, not just for its rich flavor but for its ease of preparation.
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Quick and Easy Prep: With minimal effort, you can whip this up in no time, making it perfect for busy mornings.
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Crowd-Pleaser: The universal love for chocolate and bananas means this recipe will please young and old alike.
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Minimal Ingredients: You likely have most of these ingredients at home already, which means fewer trips to the grocery store!
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Versatile Treat: Enjoy it as part of breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a dessert, and indulge in ways that suit you.
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Nostalgic Charm: Each bite carries the warmth of homemade goodness, transporting you to cherished memories of baking and sharing with loved ones.
Ingredients
Imagine the sensory experience of gathering the following ingredients, each contributing to the lusciousness of the Double Chocolate Banana Bread:
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1 and 1/4 cups all-purpose flour: The backbone of the loaf, providing structure.
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1/2 cup unsweetened natural cocoa powder: A rich, dark chocolate flavor that hints at indulgence.
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1 teaspoon baking soda: The leavening agent that helps achieve that ideal, soft texture.
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1/2 teaspoon salt: A pinch of salt enhances the sweetness and balances out the flavors beautifully.
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3/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips plus 2 tablespoons for topping: Chocolate, chocolate, and more chocolate is the motto here.
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1/2 cup unsalted butter softened to room temperature: Adds creaminess and richness to the bread.
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3/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetness that melds with the bananas for a delightful experience.
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2 large eggs at room temperature: Essential for binding all the ingredients together smoothly.
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1/4 cup plain yogurt or sour cream at room temperature: This adds moisture and a slight tanginess that enhances the overall flavor.
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1 and 1/2 cups mashed bananas: The star ingredient! Sweet, ripe bananas add irresistible moisture and sweetness.
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1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: A warm note that harmonizes with the chocolate.
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2 tablespoons hot water: Helps in mixing everything together nicely, ensuring a smooth batter.
As you gather these ingredients, let the anticipation build. Each one plays a critical role in creating the luscious texture and rich flavor that will soon fill your kitchen!
Timing: Fast and Indulgent vs. Slow and Luxurious
One of the best aspects of baking Double Chocolate Banana Bread is how quickly it comes together. In as little time as 15 minutes, you can have your batter ready to go into the oven, stirring together luscious ingredients that promise a fantastic treat.
After a short bake time of 60-65 minutes, you’ll be greeted with a heavenly aroma wafting through your home—instant gratification! This baking venture may be quick, but the pleasure derived from each slice is anything but fleeting. The moist crumb and gooey chocolate chips make it a treat worth savoring slowly.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now, let’s bring that sweet vision to reality. Follow these simple steps, and soon you’ll be indulging in a slice of Double Chocolate Banana Bread that is dripping with chocolatey goodness.
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Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). This will ensure your bread bakes evenly and creates that perfect crust.
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Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan with butter or non-stick spray. This will ensure your bread slides out effortlessly once baked.
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In a large bowl, whisk together 1 and 1/4 cups all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup unsweetened natural cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. The mixture should be light and fluffy, evoking images of rich, chocolatey clouds.
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Mix in 3/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips, allowing them to disperse throughout the dry mixture, promising chocolatey surprises in every bite.
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In another bowl, beat 1/2 cup softened unsalted butter and 3/4 cup granulated sugar together until the mixture transforms into a smooth and creamy delight that hints at the richness to come.
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Add 2 large eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then, mix in 1/4 cup plain yogurt or sour cream, 1 and 1/2 cups mashed bananas, and 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract, creating an intoxicating banana-chocolate elixir.
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Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Slowly pour in 2 tablespoons of hot water; this ensures your batter remains perfectly moist.
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Pour the beautiful, thick batter into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top. Don’t forget to sprinkle the remaining 2 tablespoons of chocolate chips on top, as they promise that extra chocolatey kick as they melt while baking.
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Place the loaf in the preheated oven and bake for 60 to 65 minutes. Loosely cover with aluminum foil halfway through to prevent over-browning. The aroma will become irresistible as it fills your kitchen.
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Once baked, cool for at least 1 to 2 hours in the pan before slicing. This cooling period allows the flavors to develop even further, making each bite more delightful!
Nutritional Information
While it’s always good to indulge, knowing the nutritional information can help you enjoy your treats with a little more mindfulness. This delicious Double Chocolate Banana Bread boasts roughly:
- Calories: 250-300 per slice (varying based on portion size)
- Rich in essential nutrients thanks to the bananas and yogurt, each slice can be considered an occasional indulgence!
However, remember that moderation is key, especially when diving into a slice of this chocolatey goodness.
Healthier Alternatives
If you’re looking to shake things up or cater to specific dietary needs, there are several ways to tweak this recipe:
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Sugar Substitutes: Consider using coconut sugar or a natural sweetener like honey or agave syrup for lower sugar options.
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Flour Swaps: You can use whole wheat flour for added fiber, or substitute almond flour for a gluten-free alternative.
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Dairy-Free Options: Swap out the butter for coconut oil and use almond milk yogurt for a totally dairy-free loaf.
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Greek Yogurt: For a protein boost, Greek yogurt can replace regular yogurt or sour cream, enhancing creaminess without heavy calories.
Serving Suggestions
There are fantastic ways to serve and enhance your Double Chocolate Banana Bread:
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Warm with Ice Cream: Serve slices warm with a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience.
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Toast it Up: Lightly toast slices and spread with nut butter for a delightful breakfast or snack option.
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Serve on Holidays: This delicious banana bread makes an excellent addition to any holiday breakfast table or dessert spread.
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Garnish: Drizzle with chocolate syrup or sprinkle with powdered sugar before serving for a touch of elegance.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Every baker runs the risk of a few mishaps, but with this Double Chocolate Banana Bread, you can easily avoid them:
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Overbaking: Check for doneness with a toothpick. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s time to take it out!
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Incorrect Ingredient Measurements: Ensure you’re using the correct amounts; baking is a science, and each measurement counts.
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Not Allowing to Cool: Patience pays off! Allowing the bread to cool properly will create the ideal texture and flavor.
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Skipping Greasing the Pan: Don’t neglect this step; it ensures your bread releases smoothly and avoids a mess!
Storing Tips
To keep your Double Chocolate Banana Bread fresh and delicious, consider these simple storage tips:
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At Room Temperature: Wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
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Refrigeration: Store in the fridge for up to a week; just make sure to cover it well to prevent it from drying out.
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Freezing Portions: For longer storage, slice the bread and freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap and then in a freezer bag. Just thaw at room temperature for a few hours or toast straight from the freezer!
Tempting You To Bake ASAP!
Now that you know how to create this heavenly Double Chocolate Banana Bread, what are you waiting for? The floor is calling for the sound of your mixer, the aroma of chocolate and bananas is almost tangible, and your taste buds are beckoning! The recipe is forgiving, delicious, and will fill your home with warmth and nostalgia. The only thing left to do is grab those bananas and chocolate chips and let baking magic happen!
Frequently Asked Questions
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Can I use frozen bananas?
Yes, thawed frozen bananas work wonderfully! They’re often sweeter and mash well. -
How do I know when the banana bread is done?
A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. -
Can I add nuts to this recipe?
Absolutely! Walnuts or pecans make a great addition for added crunch and flavor. -
What can I substitute for eggs?
You can use flax eggs or applesauce for a vegan option. -
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, simply double each ingredient and use two loaf pans or bake it in a larger pan, adjusting the baking time as necessary.
With all these details, your journey to crafting the ultimate Double Chocolate Banana Bread is just around the corner! Happy baking!
Print
Double Chocolate Banana Bread
- Total Time: 80 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A soft, tender loaf that combines the rich flavors of chocolate and ripe bananas for an indulgent treat.
Ingredients
- 1 and 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened natural cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips plus 2 tablespoons for topping
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1/4 cup plain yogurt or sour cream, at room temperature
- 1 and 1/2 cups mashed bananas
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons hot water
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
- Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan with butter or non-stick spray.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Mix in 3/4 cup of chocolate chips.
- In another bowl, beat butter and sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Add eggs one at a time, then mix in yogurt, bananas, and vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Pour in hot water and mix until smooth.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and sprinkle with remaining chocolate chips.
- Bake for 60 to 65 minutes, covering with foil halfway through if browning too quickly.
- Cool for 1 to 2 hours in the pan before slicing.
Notes
Allowing the bread to cool properly will enhance the texture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 65 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 275
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 40mg

