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: Modern Collection

I absolutely love baking this banana bread with mini chocolate chips! It combines the sweet, comforting flavor of bananas with the delightful surprise of chocolate, creating a treat that appeals to everyone in my family. I always have overripe bananas on hand, making this the perfect recipe for using them up. The best part? The mini chocolate chips melt just perfectly, adding a rich, gooey texture that takes this classic to the next level. You’ve got to try it for your next gathering or cozy weekend brunch!

Created by

Lottie Pennington

Last updated on 2026-01-05T20:09:34.189Z

During one of my lazy Sunday mornings, I found myself staring at a few overripe bananas sitting on the counter, begging to be baked into something delicious. I decided to whip up this banana bread, and the addition of mini chocolate chips took it to a whole new level of yumminess. The scent wafting through my kitchen while it baked was simply intoxicating.

As I took the first slice, the chocolate melted in my mouth, creating a perfect harmony with the moist, flavorful banana bread. I learned that taking the time to mash the bananas thoroughly results in a lighter texture, and now this recipe is a staple in my baking repertoire!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Sweet, moist banana bread infused with rich chocolate flavor
The mini chocolate chips create delightful pockets of chocolate in every bite
Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a snack anytime during the day

      

Mastering Banana Ripeness

For the best banana bread, the ripeness of your bananas is crucial. Look for bananas with brown spots and a soft texture; this indicates maximum sweetness and flavor. If your bananas are still yellow, a quick solution is to place them in a paper bag alongside an apple or a ripe banana to speed up the ripening process. Aim to use bananas that are just past their prime—this ensures a moist texture in the finished bread.

By using overripe bananas, you enhance not only the sweetness but also the moisture content of your bread. The natural sugars in ripe bananas caramelize during baking, providing a deep flavor that complements the chocolate chips. If you really want to take it up a notch, consider adding a splash of lemon juice to counter the sweetness slightly and elevate the flavor complexity.

Perfecting Your Baking Technique

When mixing your banana bread batter, remember to mix the dry and wet ingredients separately before combining them. This helps to avoid overmixing, which can lead to a dense loaf. Mix the ingredients until just combined, and you’ll achieve a tender crumb with a delightful rise. If you notice lumps of flour remaining, that’s perfectly fine—these will resolve during baking, contributing to the overall texture.

Properly timing your baking can make a significant difference in the outcome. Check for doneness around the 55-minute mark but be prepared for up to 65 minutes, depending on your oven. The banana bread is done when the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean—no wet batter sticking to it is a good indicator. If the edges start browning too quickly, cover the loaf with a piece of foil halfway through the bake.

Ingredients for Banana Bread

For the 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

Ready to Bake?

Instructions

Preheat Oven

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

Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix the melted butter with the mashed bananas. Then add the baking soda and salt.

Add Sugar and Egg

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

Incorporate Flour

Stir in the flour until just combined. Do not overmix.

Add Chocolate Chips

Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips.

Bake

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

Cool and Serve

Allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for a few minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!

Enjoy Your Banana Bread!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or a handful of chopped nuts. If you like a sweeter bread, feel free to increase the sugar by a couple of tablespoons.

Storage and Freezing Tips

Once your banana bread has cooled completely, storing it properly will ensure it stays fresh for longer. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing the loaf. Slice it before freezing, and wrap each slice individually. This way, you can defrost only what you need at a time, and it will maintain its moisture and flavor.

To defrost, simply remove a slice from the freezer and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, or pop it in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to enjoy it warm. Alternatively, you can toast the slices, which will give you a delightful warm, crispy texture and bring out the flavors even more.

Creative Additions and Variations

While the classic version of banana bread with mini chocolate chips is delectable, feel free to get creative with your recipe! Try adding chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans for an added crunch and nutty flavor profile. You can also incorporate spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to add warmth and depth. If you’re a fan of coconut, toss in some shredded coconut for a tropical twist—it pairs wonderfully with banana.

For a healthier version, consider substituting half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber and nutrients. Additionally, you can reduce the sugar slightly or swap it with alternative sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, but be mindful of the liquid content these substitutions may introduce into your batter. Adjust the flour or add a bit more to maintain the desired consistency.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?

Yes! Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before mashing.

→ What can I substitute for butter?

You can use coconut oil or vegetable oil if you prefer a dairy-free option.

→ How do I store leftover banana bread?

Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze banana bread?

Absolutely! Wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.