Get ready to transform your ordinary banana bread into a decadent chocolate lover's dream! This Dark Chocolate Chip Banana Loaf isn't just another boring quick bread - it's a moist, rich, and indulgent treat that will make your taste buds dance with joy. Imagine biting into a slice of perfectly tender banana bread studded with luxurious dark chocolate chips, creating a heavenly combination that's both comforting and exciting. Whether you're a baking novice or a seasoned pro, this recipe promises to deliver a show-stopping dessert that will have everyone begging for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 50 mins
Total Time: 65 mins
Cuisine: Baking
Serves: 1 loaf
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 1 tsp baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan with butter or line with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until they become smooth and creamy with minimal lumps.
- Pour the melted butter into the mashed bananas and mix thoroughly until well combined.
- Stir in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract, mixing until the ingredients are fully incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Fold in the dark chocolate chips, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.
- Transfer the batter to the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Remove from the oven and let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
- Carefully transfer the loaf to a wire rack and allow it to cool completely before slicing.
Tips
- Choose Overripe Bananas: The key to an incredibly moist banana bread is using bananas that are very ripe - think dark brown or almost black peels. These bananas are sweeter and will give your loaf maximum flavor and moisture.
- Don't Overmix the Batter: Mix your ingredients just until they're combined. Overmixing can lead to a tough, dense loaf instead of a tender crumb.
- Check for Doneness Carefully: Use the toothpick test to ensure your loaf is fully baked. Insert a toothpick into the center - it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
- Use High-Quality Chocolate: Since dark chocolate chips are a star ingredient, splurge on good-quality chocolate for the best flavor. Aim for chocolate with at least 60% cocoa content.
- Cool Completely Before Slicing: Resist the temptation to cut into the loaf immediately. Letting it cool completely helps the texture set and makes for cleaner, more beautiful slices.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 35mg
