Banana Bread with Dark Chocolate Chunks Recipe

Name: Banana Bread with Dark Chocolate Chunks 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 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup dark chocolate chunks

Highlighted under: Cakes & Cravings

This delicious Banana Bread with Dark Chocolate Chunks Recipe is perfect for using up overripe bananas and satisfying your sweet tooth.

Created by

Lacey Montgomery

Last updated on 2025-12-28T20:04:10.058Z

This Banana Bread with Dark Chocolate Chunks is a comforting classic that is moist, flavorful, and loaded with chunks of rich dark chocolate. It's an ideal treat for breakfast, a snack, or dessert!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich banana flavor complemented by dark chocolate
Moist and tender texture that stays fresh for days
Quick and easy to make with simple ingredients

      

The Perfect Use for Overripe Bananas

Banana bread is a timeless classic that offers a delicious solution for those overripe bananas sitting on your countertop. Instead of tossing them in the trash, transform them into a warm, comforting loaf that not only tastes incredible but also fills your kitchen with a delightful aroma. The natural sugars in overripe bananas intensify their sweetness, making them the star ingredient in this moist and flavorful banana bread.

Incorporating overripe bananas into your baking is not just resourceful; it's also a great way to add natural sweetness without relying on excess sugar. The bananas contribute to the bread's rich flavor and tender texture, ensuring that each slice is a perfect treat. Whether you're enjoying it for breakfast, as a snack, or even as a dessert, this banana bread is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Dark Chocolate: The Perfect Complement

One of the standout features of this banana bread recipe is the addition of dark chocolate chunks. The rich, bittersweet flavor of dark chocolate beautifully contrasts with the sweetness of the bananas, creating a harmonious balance in every bite. This decadent addition turns a simple banana bread into a gourmet treat that will leave your taste buds wanting more.

Moreover, dark chocolate isn't just delicious; it's also packed with health benefits. Rich in antioxidants, it can help improve heart health and boost mood. By adding dark chocolate to your banana bread, you're not only indulging in a delightful flavor combination, but you're also sneaking in some nutritious elements. It's a win-win situation for both your palate and your health!

Baking Tips for Success

To ensure your banana bread turns out perfectly every time, use ripe bananas with plenty of brown spots. These bananas are softer and sweeter, making them easier to mash and providing the best flavor. If you only have yellow bananas, you can speed up the ripening process by placing them in a paper bag for a day or two.

Another key tip is to avoid overmixing the batter once the flour is added. Mixing just until combined helps maintain the bread's tender texture. Additionally, consider checking the doneness a few minutes before the minimum baking time. Ovens can vary, and you want to avoid overbaking, which can lead to a dry loaf.

Ingredients

Banana Bread 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 dark chocolate chunks

Make sure to use ripe bananas for the best flavor and sweetness.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth. Stir in the melted butter. Mix in the baking soda and salt. Add the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract. Finally, stir in the flour until just combined. Gently fold in the dark chocolate chunks.

Bake the Bread

Pour the batter into the greased loaf pan. Bake for 60-65 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, then remove from the pan and let it cool completely on a wire rack before slicing.

Enjoy your homemade banana bread warm or at room temperature!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding chopped nuts or a sprinkle of cinnamon to the batter.

Storing Your Banana Bread

Once your banana bread has cooled completely, it's essential to store it properly to maintain its freshness. Wrap the loaf in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to extend its shelf life, consider freezing it. Slice the bread first, then wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can enjoy a slice whenever the craving strikes!

When it comes to thawing frozen banana bread, simply leave it at room temperature for a few hours or pop it in the microwave for a few seconds. You can also toast individual slices for a warm, comforting treat that tastes freshly baked.

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with this banana bread recipe to suit your taste preferences. For a nutty twist, add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor. You could also enhance the bread with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to give it a warm, aromatic quality.

If you're looking for a healthier alternative, consider substituting half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. This adds extra fiber and nutrients without compromising the bread's deliciousness. You can also reduce the sugar slightly, especially if your bananas are particularly ripe.

Serving Suggestions

Banana bread is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Serve it plain for a simple, satisfying snack, or spread a layer of creamy butter for added richness. For a decadent breakfast, top it with Greek yogurt and fresh berries.

You can also transform banana bread into a delightful dessert by serving it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. No matter how you choose to serve it, this banana bread with dark chocolate chunks is sure to impress!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas?

Yes, you can use thawed frozen bananas. Just make sure to drain any excess liquid.

→ How do I store the banana bread?

Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Can I substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but it may result in a denser loaf.

→ Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?

Yes, you can replace the egg with flaxseed meal mixed with water and use a plant-based butter alternative.