Banana Bread with Mini Chocolate Chips Recipe

Name: Banana Bread with Mini Chocolate Chips Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 10 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 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips

Highlighted under: Classic Cooking

When I crave something sweet yet comforting, I turn to this banana bread recipe with mini chocolate chips. The combination of ripe bananas and semi-sweet chocolate creates a delightful harmony of flavors. Each slice is moist and rich, perfect for breakfast or a midday snack. I love the simplicity of this recipe, which allows the natural sweetness of the bananas to shine while adding just the right amount of indulgence with the chocolate. Perfect for using up overripe bananas, it has quickly become a family favorite in my kitchen.

Created by

Willow Harries

Last updated on 2026-01-06T14:21:35.074Z

This banana bread recipe came about during a particularly busy week when I had a few overripe bananas that needed to be used. While trying different variations, I discovered that adding mini chocolate chips not only enhanced the flavor but also created a lovely texture.

I always recommend letting the banana bread cool completely before slicing it. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and makes it easier to cut without crumbling. Don’t skimp on the chocolate chips, as they melt just perfectly and add delightful pops of sweetness in every bite!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Deliciously moist with a rich banana flavor.
Melts in your mouth with bursts of chocolate in every bite.
Easy to make, perfect for beginners and family gatherings.

      

Choosing the Right Bananas

For the best banana bread, selecting the right bananas is key. Look for bananas that are heavily speckled with brown spots or completely brown; this indicates the sugars have developed fully, giving you a naturally sweet flavor. Underripe bananas will not provide the same depth of flavor or moisture, so resist the urge to use them. If you have extra time, you can speed up ripening by placing them in a paper bag with an apple or a tomato, which emits ethylene gas and helps mature the fruit faster.

When it comes to mashing the bananas, aim to achieve a chunky consistency rather than a completely smooth puree. Having some small bits allows for pleasant texture contrasts in the final bread. I find that a fork works perfectly for this; just mash enough to break them down while leaving some lumps. This technique enhances the banana flavor in each slice.

Mixing and Baking Tips

Mixing the ingredients properly is crucial to a well-risen banana bread. Be careful not to overmix once you add the flour; stirring just until combined ensures a tender crumb, preventing your bread from becoming dense or gummy. An easy way to ensure minimal mixing is to incorporate dry ingredients into the wet mixture in two parts. This technique allows the flour to absorb moisture evenly without excessive stirring.

Baking times can vary based on your oven and pan type, so keep an eye on your bread as it nears the 60-minute mark. When the edges start to pull away slightly from the sides of the pan and the top is golden-brown, it's a good sign it's nearing completion. Make sure to test with a toothpick; if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, it’s time to take it out to prevent overbaking, which can dry it out.

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

Instructions

Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 4x8-inch loaf pan.

Mix Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork. Stir in the melted butter, followed by the baking soda and salt. Mix in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract before adding the flour and mini chocolate chips. Stir gently until just combined.

Pour and Bake

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

Cool and Serve

Allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra twist, consider adding chopped nuts or a sprinkle of cinnamon to the batter for added flavor. Ensure your bananas are very ripe for the best sweetness, and feel free to adjust the sugar based on your taste preference.

Storage and Freezing

To keep your banana bread fresh, store it at room temperature wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container. It will stay moist for about 3 to 4 days. If you prefer longer storage, consider freezing it. Slice the bread and wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can easily grab a slice whenever you crave a sweet bite, and it can last for up to 3 months in the freezer.

When you're ready to enjoy frozen banana bread, simply let it thaw at room temperature for a couple of hours, or pop it in the microwave for 15-20 seconds for a quick warm-up. If you like, you can also toast the slices for a deliciously crispy exterior, enhancing the chocolate chip experience.

Serving Suggestions

This banana bread is delightful on its own, but you can elevate the experience with various toppings. A light spread of butter or cream cheese offers a rich complement. For a fun twist, try drizzling a little melted chocolate or a sprinkle of sea salt on top of a warm slice to balance the sweetness and enhance the chocolate flavor.

If you're feeling adventurous, consider adding a handful of nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch and a deeper flavor profile. You can also incorporate spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg into the batter for an extra layer of warmth. Each variation can give you a different yet amazing take on your beloved banana bread.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas?

Yes, you can use frozen bananas. Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain excess liquid before mashing.

→ How should I store the banana bread?

Store the cooled banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate it for longer freshness.

→ Can I substitute the sugar with a healthier option?

Absolutely! You can use honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar as substitutes for white sugar.

→ Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, sub out regular flour for a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure it's a blend suitable for baking.