Ultimate Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Recipe

Banana bread is a beloved classic, and this version, enhanced with chocolate chips, is sure to become a favorite in your household. Inspired by renowned chefs like Ina Garten and Martha Stewart, this recipe combines the rich flavors of ripe bananas and semi-sweet chocolate chips to create a moist, delicious treat.

A close-up view of a slice of chocolate chip banana bread being held up. The slice shows a moist, dense interior studded with melted chocolate chips. The text "chocolate-chip banana bread" is overlaid on the image. In the background, another slice is visible on a plate.

Ingredients

3 large ripe bananas (roughly mashed)
8 tablespoons melted unsalted butter
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1 large egg (at room temperature)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
Pinch of salt
1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Step-by-Step Instructions

A whole loaf of chocolate chip banana bread resting on a white plate with a floral design. The loaf is golden brown and covered with chocolate chips. A hand is holding the plate, and the text "chocolate-chip banana bread" is overlaid on the image.

Preparation

Preheat and Prepare the Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a loaf pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal later.

Making the Batter

Mash and Mix: In a large mixing bowl, mash the bananas until smooth. Add the melted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, egg, and vanilla extract. Whisk until well combined.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, stirring until just combined.
Add Chocolate Chips: Fold in the chocolate chips, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter. The mixture should be thick and chunky.

Baking the Bread

Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. For extra flavor and texture, sprinkle additional chocolate chips and some chopped walnuts on top. Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool and Serve: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!

Tips and Variations

Ripening Bananas: If your bananas aren’t ripe enough, place them in a brown paper bag with an apple or a ripe banana to speed up the process.
Optional Add-ins: For extra flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of cinnamon or a handful of chopped nuts.
Storage: Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.