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: Home Baking Inspiration

I absolutely adore making this Banana Bread with Mini Chocolate Chips. The aroma of ripe bananas baking in the oven fills my kitchen with comfort and warmth. The chocolate chips add a delightful touch of sweetness, creating the perfect balance with the moist, tender bread. Whether I'm enjoying a slice with my morning coffee or sharing it with friends, this recipe never fails to impress. It's a simple yet satisfying treat that reminds me of the joys of home baking.

Created by

Rebecca Turner

Last updated on 2026-01-05T20:25:35.717Z

Baking this Banana Bread with Mini Chocolate Chips always makes me feel nostalgic. I remember the first time I made it with my grandmother, who taught me to always use overripe bananas for the best flavor. Trust me, it makes all the difference!

One unique tip I discovered is to sprinkle a few extra chocolate chips on top before baking. This not only looks beautiful but adds a delightful chocolatey pop with each slice. I can’t resist sneaking a piece while it’s still warm!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Moist and flavorful bread filled with gooey chocolate chips
Easy to make with simple ingredients
Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a snack

      

Understanding the Ingredients

Each ingredient in this Banana Bread plays a crucial role in achieving the delightful texture and flavor we love. Ripening bananas bring natural sweetness and moisture, contributing to the bread's tenderness. When selecting bananas, aim for those with lots of brown spots; this indicates optimal ripeness and maximum flavor. The melted butter enhances richness and keeps the loaf moist, so don’t let it cool too much before mixing with the bananas to maintain a good batter consistency.

Sugar also serves not just for sweetness but affects browning through caramelization. Brown sugar can be substituted for white sugar if you prefer a deeper, molasses-like flavor. For those watching their dietary sugar intake, you can experiment with unsweetened applesauce or agave nectar, keeping in mind that it may change the final texture slightly. Lastly, using high-quality mini chocolate chips will elevate your banana bread into a luxurious treat, as they melt beautifully and offer bursts of chocolatey goodness.

Baking Tips for Success

Preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) is essential for an even bake. An oven thermometer can help ensure your oven's true temperature matches what you set. Line the loaf pan with parchment paper for easy removal—this ensures that your bread comes out intact and helps prevent sticking. When pouring the batter into the pan, smooth the top with a spatula to encourage even rising. Keep an eye on the closing minutes of baking, as overbaking can lead to a dry loaf; a toothpick should come out with a few moist crumbs attached, indicating readiness.

If you notice the top of your banana bread browning too quickly, loosely tent it with aluminum foil halfway through baking to prevent the edges from overcooking while allowing the center to set. For best results, let your banana bread cool in the pan for approximately 10 minutes to firm up the structure, making slicing much easier. Letting it cool completely on a wire rack ensures consistency throughout each slice.

Ingredients

Ingredients for 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

Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter with the mashed bananas. Mix in the baking soda and salt, followed by the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla.

Add Flour and Chips

Gradually mix in the flour until just combined. Fold in the mini chocolate chips with a spatula.

Bake

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

Cool and Serve

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

Enjoy your freshly baked banana bread!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, try adding chopped nuts or a sprinkle of cinnamon for flavor.

Storing and Freezing

To keep your banana bread fresh for longer, store it at room temperature in an airtight container. It will stay good for up to 3 days. If you want to enjoy it beyond that, consider freezing portions for a later date. Allow the bread to completely cool, then wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them into a freezer-safe bag. Properly frozen, your banana bread can last for up to 3 months. Just thaw it at room temperature or toast slices directly from the freezer for a quick treat.

If you prefer to freeze the entire loaf, it’s advisable to wrap it in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, to protect it from freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, allow the loaf to thaw in the refrigerator overnight and come to room temperature before slicing. This method helps preserve both flavor and texture, ensuring every bite tastes freshly baked.

Serving Suggestions

This Banana Bread with Mini Chocolate Chips is versatile enough to be served on its own or dressed up as a delightful dessert. I love to enjoy a slice with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat. For breakfast, topping with a smear of almond butter or cream cheese can add a protein boost that pairs wonderfully with the chocolate and banana flavors.

For an extra touch, consider garnishing with a sprinkle of sea salt or a dusting of powdered sugar before serving. Fresh fruits, such as sliced strawberries or a handful of blueberries, can also be a refreshing accompaniment. If you’re feeling adventurous, tailoring your recipe with walnuts or pecans can add a delightful crunch that nicely contrasts the soft bread.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas?

Yes, just thaw them and drain any excess liquid before using.

→ Can I substitute the sugar?

You can use brown sugar or a sugar alternative for a different flavor.

→ How do I store banana bread?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days or freeze for longer storage.

→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for a gluten-free version.