Introduction
There’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm loaf of chocolate chip banana bread fresh from the oven. This recipe brings together the delightful sweetness of ripe bananas with rich, melty chocolate chips, creating a moist and decadent treat that is perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a snack anytime during the day. The aroma that fills your home while it bakes is sure to have everyone eagerly waiting by the kitchen!
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 chocolate chips
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 65 minutes
Total Time: 75 minutes
Yield: 1 loaf
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 4×8 inch loaf pan, making sure it’s well-coated to prevent sticking.
- In a mixing bowl, take those ripe bananas and mash them with a fork until they’re beautifully smooth and creamy.
- Next, stir in the melted butter, creating a luscious mixture.
- Add in the baking soda and a pinch of salt, stirring to combine.
- Pour in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract, mixing everything well together until it’s nicely blended.
- Gently stir in the all-purpose flour, mixing until just combined — be careful not to overmix as it can make the bread tough!
- Now comes the best part: fold in those chocolate chips, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Pour the delightful batter into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top gently.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 60-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and you can see a golden-brown top.
- Once baked, remove from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then transfer the loaf to a wire rack to cool completely — if you can resist the urge to slice into it right away!
Notes or Tips
For an extra touch of flavor, consider adding a few chopped nuts or a sprinkle of cinnamon to the batter. If you have any leftover banana bread, it keeps wonderfully well. Wrap it tightly and store it at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate it for a week. You can also freeze slices for a quick and easy treat later on!
Cooking Techniques
This banana bread recipe showcases the simple technique of mixing wet and dry ingredients separately before combining them. This method prevents overmixing, which is key to achieving that tender, moist crumb. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different mix-ins like walnuts or even a swirl of peanut butter for a delicious twist!
FAQ
Can I use frozen bananas? Absolutely! Just thaw them completely and drain any excess moisture before mashing.
How can I tell when my banana bread is done? The best way is to insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, it’s perfect!
Conclusion
This super moist chocolate chip banana bread will quickly become a beloved staple in your kitchen. Whether enjoyed warm with a pat of butter or as a slice on its own, it’s sure to bring smiles to your family and friends. So gather your ingredients and get baking — your taste buds will thank you!