Moist Banana Bread with Chocolate Chips and Nuts Recipe

Introduction

This moist banana bread is a delightful twist on a classic favorite, enriched with sweet chocolate chips and the option to add crunchy nuts. Perfect for a cozy breakfast or an afternoon treat, it’s easy to make and incredibly satisfying.

Ingredients

• 3 ripe bananas
• 1/2 cup white sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup melted butter
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
• 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional) or nuts of choice
• 1 banana, sliced in half lengthwise (optional for topping)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 4×8-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper, then grease the parchment to prevent sticking. Set aside.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, thoroughly mash the 3 ripe bananas with a fork until smooth. Add both sugars and mix until combined.
3. Step 3: Stir in the eggs and vanilla extract until the mixture is uniform, then pour in the melted butter and mix well.
4. Step 4: In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
5. Step 5: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet banana mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
6. Step 6: Fold in the chocolate chips or nuts evenly throughout the batter.
7. Step 7: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly. If using, place the banana sliced lengthwise on top, cut side up.
8. Step 8: Bake for 50 to 60 minutes. Test for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
9. Step 9: Let the bread cool in the pan for 5 to 10 minutes, then carefully remove it and cool completely on a wire rack before slicing and serving.

Tips & Variations

• For extra moisture and flavor, substitute half the butter with Greek yogurt or applesauce.
• Use walnuts, pecans, or almonds as a nutritious alternative to chocolate chips.
• Add a pinch of nutmeg or ground cloves for a warm spice twist.
• If you prefer a sweeter bread, sprinkle a little sugar on top before baking for a slight caramelized crust.

Storage

Store banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature and warm slices gently in the microwave or oven before serving.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use overripe bananas for this recipe?

Yes, overripe bananas are ideal for banana bread as they are sweeter and easier to mash, which enhances the flavor and moisture of the bread.

Can I substitute chocolate chips with other mix-ins?

Absolutely! Nuts, dried fruit, or even shredded coconut work great as mix-ins and add different textures and flavors to the bread.

Moist Banana Bread with Chocolate Chips and Nuts Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 120 reviews

This moist banana bread recipe combines ripe bananas with chocolate chips and optional nuts for a rich, flavorful treat. Perfectly spiced with cinnamon and baked to golden perfection, it offers a tender crumb and delightful sweetness that makes it an ideal snack or breakfast option.

• Author: lina
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Yield: 1 loaf (approximately 8 servings) 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Wet Ingredients

• 3 Ripe bananas
• 1/2 cup White sugar
• 1/4 cup Brown sugar
• 2 Eggs
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup Melted butter

Dry Ingredients

• 2 cups All-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon Baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon Baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon Salt
• 1 teaspoon Cinnamon (optional)

Mix-ins and Garnish

• 1/2 cup Chocolate chips (optional) or nuts of choice
• 1 Banana, sliced in half lengthwise (optional, for topping)

Instructions

1. Preheat and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 4×8-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper. Grease the parchment paper with butter to prevent sticking, then set the pan aside.
2. Mash bananas and mix wet ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, mash the 3 ripe bananas thoroughly with a fork until smooth. Add both the white and brown sugars and mix until fully combined. Then add the eggs and vanilla extract, stirring until uniform. Finally, pour in the melted butter and mix until well combined.
3. Add dry ingredients: Sift together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Gradually add this dry mixture into the wet banana mixture, stirring gently until incorporated. Avoid over mixing to keep the bread tender.
4. Incorporate mix-ins: Fold in the chocolate chips or nuts evenly throughout the batter for added flavor and texture.
5. Prepare for baking: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly. For an attractive finish, place the banana sliced lengthwise on top of the batter with the cut side facing up.
6. Bake the bread: Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes. Test doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
7. Cool the bread: Allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for 5-10 minutes before carefully removing it. Then let it cool completely on a wire rack before slicing and serving.

Notes

• Use very ripe bananas for the best flavor and natural sweetness.
• Do not over mix the batter to keep the bread moist and tender.
• Optional cinnamon adds warmth but can be omitted if desired.
• The banana on top adds an attractive presentation and slight caramelized flavor.
• You can substitute nuts with your preference or omit them for a nut-free version.
• Store banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

Keywords: banana bread, chocolate chip banana bread, moist banana bread, homemade banana bread, easy banana bread recipe, banana nut bread