Simple Chocolate Chip Banana Bread

This Simple Chocolate Chip Banana Bread recipe is the ultimate easy treat for banana bread lovers. Made with ripe bananas, chocolate chips, and simple pantry ingredients, this banana bread is moist, flavorful, and incredibly easy to bake. Whether you’re using fresh or frozen bananas, this recipe guarantees a soft, sweet loaf perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. With just the right balance of chocolatey goodness and banana flavor, it’s a great way to use up overripe bananas. Perfect for gluten-free or vegan variations, and ideal for meal prep, this chocolate chip banana bread is a family favorite that everyone will love!

Ingredients:

• 3 to 4 ripe bananas (fresh or thawed from the freezer)
• 1/3 cup melted butter
• 1 large egg
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup chocolate chips

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease a 5×9-inch loaf pan with cooking spray (this size is ideal for a perfectly shaped loaf).
2. Peel and mash the bananas in a large bowl. (If using frozen bananas, just thaw them before mashing).
3. Stir the melted butter into the mashed bananas, followed by the egg, sugar, vanilla extract, baking soda, and salt. Mix until well combined.
4. Add the flour and stir until the batter is just incorporated.
5. Gently fold in the chocolate chips.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it out evenly.
7. Bake for 1 hour, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Let the banana bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Simple Chocolate Chip Banana Bread is the perfect combination of moist, flavorful banana bread and indulgent chocolate chips. With just a handful of ingredients, this easy recipe transforms ripe bananas into a deliciously soft loaf with a hint of sweetness and a delightful chocolatey surprise in every bite. Whether you’re looking for a tasty breakfast treat, a snack, or a dessert, this banana bread will satisfy your cravings. Plus, it’s simple enough for beginner bakers, making it a perfect recipe for all skill levels.

Tips

• Ripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the better the flavor. Overripe bananas, even frozen ones, are perfect for this recipe as they provide extra sweetness and moisture.
• Don’t Overmix: When combining the ingredients, mix until just incorporated to avoid a dense loaf.
• Check for Doneness: Every oven is different, so check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, the banana bread is ready.
• Cool Before Slicing: Allow the bread to cool for a few minutes in the pan and then completely on a wire rack before slicing to avoid it falling apart.

Variations and Substitutions

• Nut Add-ins: Feel free to add 1/2 cup of walnuts or pecans for a nutty twist.
• Flour Alternatives: You can substitute whole wheat flour for a healthier option, or try gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
• Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free butter substitute and enjoy this recipe as a dairy-free option.
• Sugar Substitutes: For a lower-sugar version, you can reduce the sugar by half or substitute with coconut sugar or a sugar alternative like stevia.

FAQs

Can I use frozen bananas for banana bread?
Yes, frozen bananas work perfectly! Just thaw them before mashing and proceed with the recipe as usual.

How do I store leftover banana bread?
Store the banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate it to extend its freshness for up to a week.

Can I freeze banana bread?
Yes! You can freeze the loaf by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and then placing it in a freezer-safe bag. To thaw, leave it at room temperature or heat it in the microwave.

Serving Suggestions

This Chocolate Chip Banana Bread is delicious on its own, but you can elevate it with a few extras! Serve warm with a spread of peanut butter, cream cheese, or even a drizzle of chocolate syrup. It also pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee, tea, or a glass of milk. This banana bread is perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or as a sweet dessert to enjoy after dinner. For an added indulgence, top a slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.