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

Highlighted under: Modern Meals

I love making banana bread, especially when I can add a touch of decadence with mini chocolate chips. This recipe has become a staple in my kitchen because it perfectly balances the sweetness of ripe bananas with the rich, melty goodness of chocolate. The aroma fills the house while it bakes, making it hard to resist grabbing a slice as soon as it's ready. It's a simple recipe that never fails to impress friends and family, and it's great for using up overripe bananas, too!

Created by

Theodora Blythe

Last updated on 2026-01-06T15:50:35.229Z

When I first tried this banana bread recipe, I couldn't believe how moist and flavorful it turned out. The mini chocolate chips add a delightful surprise in every bite, making this bread a true indulgence. I discovered that mashing the bananas until smooth, combined with the right amount of brown sugar, brings out a deep, rich flavor that elevates the dish.

One tip I found helpful was to use very ripe bananas; the more speckles, the better! It’s the best way to ensure that my banana bread turns out sweet and delicious every time. This recipe has quickly become a family favorite, and it’s the perfect way to use up bananas that have seen better days!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Moist and fluffy texture with a perfect crumb
Rich chocolate flavor paired with sweet bananas
Easy to make and perfect for breakfast or snacks

      

Understanding Key Ingredients

The foundation of banana bread lies in the bananas themselves. Ripe bananas, ideally with a few brown spots, provide optimal sweetness and moisture. Their natural sugars caramelize during baking, resulting in a richer flavor. If you find yourself with bananas that are too firm, a quick trick is to bake them at 300°F (150°C) for about 15-20 minutes until they darken and soften, making them perfect for this recipe.

Butter contributes not only to the richness of the banana bread but also to its overall tender crumb. Ensure your butter is melted but not too hot when added to the batter; otherwise, it can cook the eggs and create a dense texture. I prefer using unsalted butter, as this allows you to control the saltiness of your loaf.

Technique Tips for a Perfect Loaf

When incorporating the dry ingredients, it's essential to mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a tough banana bread as it develops gluten. Fold in the mini chocolate chips gently at the end to distribute them evenly without compromising the tenderness of the batter. It's okay if you see a few flour streaks; they will continue to incorporate as the batter rests.

To create a signature dome on your banana bread, consider placing a shallow roasting pan with water on the lower rack of your oven. This introduces moisture to prevent the bread from becoming too dry and encourages an even rise. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs, but no wet batter.

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

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 add the baking soda and salt.

Add Sugar and Egg

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

Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Stir in the flour until just incorporated, being careful not to overmix. Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips.

Pour and Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow cooling in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy your delicious banana bread!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, try adding a teaspoon of cinnamon or a handful of walnuts for crunch. Also, this banana bread freezes well, so you can enjoy a slice even after it's been stored away!

Storage and Freezing Tips

Once cooled, wrap your banana bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh. It can be stored at room temperature for about 2-3 days. If you want to keep it longer, place it in the freezer. Slice it before freezing for easier thawing; individual slices can be microwaved for 20-30 seconds for a quick treat.

For optimal freshness when storing in the freezer, consider using a freezer-safe bag or container. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. Just allow it to thaw at room temperature for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator before enjoying.

Delicious Variations

Feel free to experiment with this banana bread recipe by adding nuts like walnuts or pecans for crunch. Dried fruits such as raisins or cranberries can also complement the sweetness of the bananas and chocolate. If you're feeling adventurous, try swapping out some of the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour for a heartier texture while still retaining moisture.

For a version with a little kick, you can incorporate spices like cinnamon or nutmeg. Start with 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon; it pairs beautifully with bananas and chocolate. You can also drizzle the cooled bread with a simple icing made of powdered sugar and milk for an extra touch of sweetness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?

Yes! Just ensure the frozen bananas are fully thawed and mashed before adding them to the mixture.

→ How do I know when the banana bread is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when the bread is ready.

→ Can I substitute the sugar with a sugar alternative?

Yes, you can use alternatives like coconut sugar or a sugar replacement designed for baking.

→ How long can I store leftover banana bread?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.