As I stood in my kitchen, the sweet aroma of ripe bananas filled the air, instantly transporting me back to my childhood. That's when I decided to elevate my trusty banana bread with a twist that promises to ignite your taste buds—Double Chocolate Banana Bread! This recipe isn’t just a chocolate lover’s dream; it's an effortless way to transform overripe bananas into a moist, delicious treat that’s perfect for dessert or breakfast. With quick prep and minimal fuss, you’ll have a satisfying loaf that’s both gluten-free and packed with protein, making it a healthier indulgence. Plus, the addition of chocolate chips ensures every bite is rich and delightful. Are you ready to bring some nostalgia back into your kitchen?
Why is this Double Chocolate Banana Bread special?
Decadent flavor is elevated by the rich cocoa powder and generous chocolate chips, making each slice a heavenly treat.
Quick prep time means this recipe is perfect for busy mornings or last-minute dessert plans.
Healthy twist uses almond and coconut flours for a gluten-free option that doesn’t skimp on taste!
Versatile serving options, whether you enjoy it plain, with a dollop of nut butter, or paired with creamy ice cream, it fits any craving.
Crowd-pleaser that will impress family and friends alike—perfectly moist and bursting with chocolate goodness! Consider checking out my tips for baking the perfect banana bread for even more delicious outcomes.
Double Chocolate Banana Bread Ingredients
Indulge in this delightful recipe with the perfect mix of flavors and textures!
For the Batter
- 3 ripe bananas – The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your Double Chocolate Banana Bread will be!
- 3 eggs – Ensure they are at room temperature for better mixing.
- ⅓ cup smooth almond butter – Adds healthy fats and a rich, nutty flavor.
- ½ cup almond flour – A gluten-free base that provides a lovely crumb.
- 2 tablespoon coconut flour – Helps absorb moisture while adding a hint of sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda – Ensures your bread rises nicely for a light texture.
- ⅓ cup cocoa powder or cacao powder – Provides rich chocolate flavor; choose cacao for a more intense taste.
- A pinch of salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
- ⅓ cup coconut sugar – A natural sweetener that adds a subtle caramel note.
- ¾ cup chocolate chips – Use semi-sweet or dark for the best chocolatey bliss!
Optional Toppings
- Extra chocolate chips – Sprinkle on top before baking for a chocolatey crust.
- Chopped nuts – Add for extra crunch; walnuts or pecans pair beautifully!
This Double Chocolate Banana Bread is not only easy to make but also a delicious way to use those overripe bananas sitting on your counter. Happy baking!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Double Chocolate Banana Bread
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), ensuring it is ready to create a warm, cozy environment for your Double Chocolate Banana Bread. This temperature is perfect for achieving a lovely, golden-brown crust while keeping the inside moist.
Step 2: Mash the Bananas
In a large mixing bowl, use a fork or hand mixer to mash 3 ripe bananas until they're smooth with only a few lumps. This process should take just a couple of minutes—aim for a creamy consistency that will blend seamlessly into the batter, adding natural sweetness and moisture.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
Next, add 3 room-temperature eggs and ⅓ cup of smooth almond butter to the mashed bananas. Whisk the mixture together until it is well combined, creating a smooth base that binds your Double Chocolate Banana Bread ingredients. This step should take about 1–2 minutes.
Step 4: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together ½ cup almond flour, 2 tablespoons coconut flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, ⅓ cup cocoa powder, a pinch of salt, and ⅓ cup coconut sugar. Make sure everything is well blended, as this mixture will deliver the structure and texture for your delicious bread.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixes
Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients using a spatula. Be mindful to combine everything until just mixed—overmixing can lead to a denser texture. This should take about 1 minute, yielding a thick, luscious batter brimming with chocolatey goodness.
Step 6: Fold in Chocolate Chips
Now, fold in ½ cup of chocolate chips into your batter, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout. This step enhances the rich, chocolate experience of your Double Chocolate Banana Bread, making each bite decadent.
Step 7: Prepare the Loaf Pan
Line an 8×4 loaf pan with parchment paper, then lightly spray it with coconut oil to prevent sticking. Ensuring the pan is prepared correctly will help you effortlessly remove the banana bread once baked, keeping that beautiful shape intact.
Step 8: Pour the Batter
Carefully pour the banana bread mixture into the prepared loaf pan, using a spatula to spread it evenly. Top the batter with the remaining chocolate chips for a deliciously indulgent crust, inviting the chocolate aroma to fill your kitchen as it bakes.
Step 9: Bake the Bread
Place the loaf pan in your preheated oven and bake for 35–37 minutes. Keep an eye on the bread, and use a toothpick to check for doneness—insert it into the center and ensure it comes out clean, indicating your Double Chocolate Banana Bread is perfectly baked.
Step 10: Cool Before Slicing
Once baked, remove the banana bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. This resting time helps to enhance the flavors and preserves the moist texture of your delicious creation.
Make Ahead Options
These flavorful Double Chocolate Banana Bread loaves are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can mash the bananas and mix the wet ingredients up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate them in an airtight container. The dry ingredient mixture can also be prepped ahead and stored for up to 3 days—just keep it in a cool, dry place to maintain quality. When you’re ready to bake, combine the wet and dry ingredients, fold in the chocolate chips, pour the batter into the prepared pan, and bake as usual. This way, you'll enjoy moist, delicious banana bread made with incredible ease, saving you precious time on busy mornings or unexpected guests!
What to Serve with Double Chocolate Banana Bread?
Indulging in a slice of this delightful banana bread can be even more satisfying when paired with complementary flavors and textures.
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Creamy Nut Butter: A smear of almond or peanut butter adds a rich, nutty creaminess that elevates each bite. It's a comforting addition, perfect for breakfast!
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The juxtaposition of hot, moist banana bread with cold, creamy ice cream creates a delightful contrast that will soothe your sweet tooth.
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Fresh Berries: Mixed berries such as strawberries or raspberries add a pop of freshness and a tangy contrast to the richness of the chocolate bread.
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Greek Yogurt: A dollop of flavored yogurt provides a creamy tang that perfectly balances the sweetness. It’s a healthier option that packs in protein too!
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Coconut Whipped Cream: For a tropical twist, serve with coconut whipped cream. Its light and airy texture complements the dense, moist bread beautifully.
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Coffee or Tea: A cup of freshly brewed coffee or aromatic herbal tea enhances the flavors of the banana bread. The warmth from the drinks makes for a cozy afternoon treat.
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Chocolate Drizzle: For true chocoholics, a drizzle of melted dark chocolate over the top adds an extra layer of indulgence and visual appeal!
Each of these pairings enhances the experience of your Double Chocolate Banana Bread, making every occasion feel like a celebration.
How to Store and Freeze Double Chocolate Banana Bread
Room Temperature: Store at room temperature for up to 2 days wrapped in plastic wrap to maintain moisture and prevent drying out.
Fridge: For longer freshness, keep it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Ensure it's wrapped tightly to avoid absorbing other odors.
Freezer: Freeze the Double Chocolate Banana Bread for up to 3 months. Slice before freezing and wrap each piece in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil for best results.
Reheating: To enjoy a warm slice, thaw overnight in the fridge then pop it in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or toast it lightly for a delightful treat!
Tips for the Best Double Chocolate Banana Bread
- Ripe Bananas: Use bananas that are heavily spotted or even black for maximum sweetness and moistness in your Double Chocolate Banana Bread.
- Don’t Overmix: Gently combine the wet and dry ingredients. Overmixing can result in a dense texture instead of a light, airy loaf.
- Egg Temperature: Ensure your eggs are at room temperature before mixing. This helps them blend seamlessly with the bananas, creating a smooth batter.
- Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick to test for doneness. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs attached, your bread is perfectly baked—not dry!
- Storage Tips: To keep your bread fresh longer, wrap it tightly and store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Double Chocolate Banana Bread Variations
Feel free to explore new flavors and dietary needs with these delightful twists on your classic Double Chocolate Banana Bread recipe!
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Nut-Free: Swap almond butter for sunbutter or any nut-free alternative to cater to allergies.
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Low-Sugar: Replace coconut sugar with a low-calorie sweetener like stevia, adjusting to taste for sweetness.
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Cocoa Nibs: For an added crunch, substitute half of the chocolate chips with cocoa nibs for a bittersweet twist.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dry ingredients for an unexpected heat that complements the chocolate.
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Fruit Add-In: Fold in ½ cup of chopped strawberries or raspberries for a fruity explosion, creating a delightful contrast.
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Chocolate Lovers: Increase the chocolate chips to a full cup or use mixed types (white, semi-sweet, and dark) for a decadent experience.
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Protein Boost: Stir in a scoop of your favorite protein powder into the dry ingredients to kick up the nutritional value without compromising flavor.
These variations are a wonderful way to personalize your Double Chocolate Banana Bread. Whether you're exploring flavor combinations or accommodating dietary preferences, each option adds a unique twist to this beloved recipe!
Double Chocolate Banana Bread Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best bananas for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor in your Double Chocolate Banana Bread, choose bananas that are heavily spotted or even black. The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be! Look for bananas that are soft to the touch, indicating they have reached peak ripeness.
What's the best way to store Double Chocolate Banana Bread?
I often recommend storing your banana bread at room temperature for up to 2 days, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap to retain moisture. For longer freshness, keep it in the refrigerator, where it can last up to 5 days. Just be sure it’s wrapped tightly to avoid any unwanted odors from other foods.
Can I freeze Double Chocolate Banana Bread? How?
Of course! Freezing is a great way to prolong the life of your delicious banana bread. To freeze, slice the bread into individual portions. Wrap each slice in plastic wrap, then cover with aluminum foil to ensure freshness. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and warm it up in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or toast it lightly.
What common issues might arise when making this Banana Bread?
Very! One common issue is overmixing the batter, which can lead to a dense texture instead of a light and fluffy loaf. Make sure to gently combine the wet and dry ingredients until just mixed. Also, when check for doneness, if a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs attached, it's perfectly baked! If it comes out wet, you’ll need to bake for a few more minutes.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
For sure! This recipe is gluten-free, thanks to the use of almond and coconut flours. If you have nut allergies, you can substitute the almond butter with sunflower seed butter to ensure everyone can enjoy it. Always check that your chocolate chips are dairy-free if you're catering to those with dairy allergies.
Indulge in Rich Double Chocolate Banana Bread Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mash 3 ripe bananas in a large mixing bowl until smooth with a few lumps.
- Add 3 room-temperature eggs and ⅓ cup almond butter to the mashed bananas. Whisk until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together ½ cup almond flour, 2 tablespoon coconut flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, ⅓ cup cocoa powder, a pinch of salt, and ⅓ cup coconut sugar.
- Gently fold wet ingredients into dry ingredients until just mixed.
- Fold in ¾ cup chocolate chips into the batter, ensuring even distribution.
- Line an 8×4 loaf pan with parchment paper and lightly spray it with coconut oil.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, topping with remaining chocolate chips.
- Bake for 35–37 minutes, checking for doneness with a toothpick.
- Let cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
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