Banana Bread with Mini Chocolate Chips Recipe

Name: Banana Bread with Mini Chocolate Chips 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 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips

Highlighted under: Simple Baking Favorites

I love making banana bread, especially when I can add a touch of sweetness with mini chocolate chips. The combination of ripe bananas and chocolate creates a moist loaf that's perfect for breakfast or dessert. It only takes a few minutes to prepare, and the aroma that fills the kitchen while it bakes is simply irresistible. There’s something so comforting about slicing into a warm piece of banana bread, and the little bursts of chocolate make it all the more delightful. Let’s whip up a loaf that I know you’ll adore!

Created by

Pippa Lawson

Last updated on 2026-01-06T12:29:35.004Z

During a rainy afternoon, I decided to experiment with my favorite banana bread recipe by adding mini chocolate chips. The result was a delightful twist that brought joy to my family. Each slice was super moist, and the chocolate chips melted slightly, creating pockets of sweetness that contrasted beautifully with the banana flavor.

I found that using very ripe bananas is key to achieving the best flavor and texture. They provide natural sweetness and moisture, which means I can reduce the added sugar without sacrificing taste. Trust me, this simple trick will elevate your banana bread!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        The perfect balance of banana and chocolate flavors
Moist and tender texture that stays fresh for days
Easy to make with ingredients you probably have at home

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The secret to a perfect banana bread lies in the quality of your bananas. Using overripe, brown bananas will enhance the flavor and sweetness of the bread significantly. As bananas ripen, their starches convert to sugars, resulting in a richer taste. If you're in a hurry, you can bake unripe bananas at 300°F (150°C) for about 15-20 minutes to speed up the ripening process.

Butter adds richness to your bread, contributing to its moistness. If you're looking for a lighter alternative, you can use unsweetened applesauce, which not only cuts calories but also keeps the bread moist. Additionally, the mini chocolate chips provide delightful bursts of sweetness, but feel free to substitute with walnuts or pecans if you prefer a nutty flavor.

Mastering the Baking Technique

When mixing the batter, it's crucial to avoid overmixing after adding the flour. Overmixing can lead to tough bread due to the development of gluten. Aim for just combined; lumps are perfectly fine. Using a rubber spatula here is beneficial for gently folding the flour while maintaining the cake-like texture.

While baking, keep an eye on the color of the top of the bread. It should be a beautiful golden brown. If you notice the top browning too quickly, tent it with aluminum foil during the last 10-15 minutes of baking. This will allow the bread to cook through without burning the top.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delicious 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 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup mini chocolate chips

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to bake your banana bread:

Preheat the oven

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

Mix the wet ingredients

In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth. Stir in the melted butter, then blend in the baking soda and salt.

Add sugar and egg

Mix in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract until fully combined.

Combine with dry ingredients

Gently fold in the flour until just incorporated. Be careful not to overmix. Add the mini chocolate chips and stir until evenly distributed.

Bake the bread

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for about 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and serve

Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Enjoy your warm banana bread with a cup of tea or coffee!

Pro Tips

For a richer flavor, consider adding chopped walnuts or a sprinkle of cinnamon to the batter.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

To keep your banana bread fresh, I recommend wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or storing it in an airtight container. It can be kept at room temperature for up to three days or in the refrigerator for about a week. For extended storage, slice the bread and freeze it in a zip-top bag, which makes it easy to grab a piece whenever you're craving a bite.

Serve the banana bread warm, perhaps with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey for an extra touch. It also pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream if you're treating yourself for dessert.

Variations to Try

Feel free to get creative with mix-ins! You can swap half of the chocolate chips for shredded coconut or dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for a unique flavor twist. If you're a fan of spices, consider adding a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warming touch.

For a healthier version, try incorporating whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour. This will add a nuttier flavor and increase the fiber content. If you’re also looking to reduce sugar, you can use mashed dates or applesauce as a natural sweetener.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?

Yes, as long as they are fully thawed and drained of excess moisture, they work great!

→ How can I store leftover banana bread?

Wrap it well in plastic wrap and store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup.

→ What can I do if my banana bread is too dry?

Next time, ensure your bananas are very ripe and consider adding a tablespoon of yogurt or sour cream for extra moisture.