Banana Bread with Mini Chocolate Chips Recipe

Name: Banana Bread with Mini Chocolate Chips Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 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: Favorite Baking Favorites

I love baking banana bread, especially when I can add a delightful twist with mini chocolate chips. This recipe combines the wholesome goodness of overripe bananas with the sweet indulgence of chocolate. As I bake, the aroma fills my kitchen and makes it impossible to resist sneaking a slice before it's fully cooled. It's a perfect treat for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert. The moisture from the bananas ensures a soft texture, and the chocolate chips add just the right amount of sweetness that pairs beautifully with the bread's warmth.

Created by

Isobel Fairfax

Last updated on 2026-01-06T13:49:34.845Z

Baking this banana bread is a special tradition in my home. I’ve experimented with countless recipes, but this one has remained a favorite. The addition of mini chocolate chips not only makes it fun but elevates the flavor profile to another level. I found that using overripe bananas gives the best taste and consistency, so I always keep a few on hand just for this.

One tip I’ve learned is to mix the batter just enough to combine the ingredients; overmixing can lead to a dense loaf. I also love the satisfaction of sharing this warm, homemade bread with friends and family. Enjoying a slice fresh out of the oven is simply unbeatable!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich banana flavor with gooey chocolate goodness
Quick and easy preparation for a homemade treat
Perfectly moist loaf that everyone will enjoy

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The star of this banana bread is undoubtedly the ripe bananas. The more overripe they are, the sweeter and moister your bread will become. Aim for bananas that are heavily speckled with brown to maximize their natural sugars. If you find yourself without ripe bananas, you can speed up the ripening process by placing them in a paper bag at room temperature for a day or two, or even bake them briefly in the oven at a low temperature to get them soft quickly.

Butter is another key player in this recipe, providing both moisture and flavor. I always opt for unsalted butter to regulate the salt levels more precisely in my baking. If you’re looking to cut down on dairy, feel free to substitute half of the butter with unsweetened applesauce. This will keep the bread moist while reducing the fat content, but be aware it may slightly alter the final texture.

Perfecting the Mixing Technique

When mixing your ingredients, it's crucial to remember the importance of not overmixing the batter. Overmixing can create a denser loaf as it develops the gluten in the flour. Instead, mix until just combined, leaving some lumps in the batter for a delightful, tender crumb. This is particularly important when adding the flour; I usually use a spatula to fold it in gently.

Incorporating your chocolate chips should be the last step in the mixing process. Make sure to toss them in a little bit of flour before folding them into the batter. This helps prevent them from sinking to the bottom during baking. Not only does this keep them evenly distributed throughout your loaf, but it also enhances the chocolatey experience with every bite.

Storing and Enjoying Your Banana Bread

Once your banana bread has cooled, proper storage will help maintain its moist texture. Wrap the cooled loaf in plastic wrap or foil, and store it at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, you can place it in the freezer; simply wrap it well in plastic and then aluminum foil to protect against freezer burn. It can last for about three months in the freezer, and you can easily thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before enjoying.

If you're looking to elevate your banana bread experience, consider pairing it with toppings! Spread a little nut butter on a warm slice, or drizzle with honey or maple syrup. You could also enjoy it with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a scoop of ice cream for a simple dessert. These pairings enhance the sweetness of the chocolate chips while bringing in new flavors to the beloved banana bread.

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). Grease a 4x8-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas with melted butter. Mix in the baking soda and salt.

Add Sugar, Egg, and Vanilla

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

Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Add the flour and mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the bread tough.

Fold in Chocolate Chips

Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips.

Bake the Bread

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Pro Tips

For the best flavor, use very ripe bananas with brown spots. You can also freeze your overripe bananas until you're ready to make this recipe.

Common Troubleshooting Tips

If your banana bread is turning out too dry, there’s a chance you’re overbaking it. Keep an eye on your loaf as it nears the 50-minute mark. Start checking for doneness a few minutes early: the bread is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter. If it’s baking unevenly, rotate the loaf halfway through cooking to ensure even heat distribution.

Another common issue is banana bread sinking in the middle. This can happen if the batter is too wet or you’ve added too much baking soda. Make sure your bananas are mashed well but not overly liquid, and stick to precise measurements for success. If you do end up with a sunken loaf, it's not the end of the world—just slice it up and serve it with whipped cream for a delightful dessert!

Creative Variations to Try

Once you’ve mastered the basic banana bread with chocolate chips, you can explore variations to keep things exciting. For a nutty flavor, consider adding chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter. They pair excellently with chocolate and enrich the texture. For a touch of spice, add a teaspoon of cinnamon or a hint of nutmeg, which can enhance the overall flavor profile and reflect the cozy feelings of homemade baked goods.

If you're feeling adventurous, try folding in some shredded coconut or using different types of chocolate chips, such as dark chocolate or white chocolate. For a twist, you could even add a swirl of peanut butter or Nutella to the top of the batter before baking. These variations will let you customize your banana bread and surprise your loved ones with new flavors every time you bake!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?

Yes, thaw your frozen bananas and ensure to drain any excess liquid before mashing.

→ How can I make this banana bread healthier?

You can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or replace some sugar with honey or maple syrup.

→ Can I add nuts or other toppings?

Absolutely! Walnuts or pecans can complement the chocolate chips nicely. Feel free to experiment.

→ How should I store the banana bread?

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