Chocolate Chip Banana Bread is a classic that feels like a warm hug in loaf form. It combines ripe, sweet bananas with melty chocolate chips, creating a soft, moist bread that’s just the right balance of sweet and comforting. The chocolate adds little pockets of indulgence that make every bite special.
I love making this bread when I have a bunch of bananas that have gotten a little too ripe. It’s such an easy way to turn them into something delicious that everyone will enjoy. Plus, the chocolate chips always get excited smiles from anyone who tries a slice—that little surprise is what makes this recipe a crowd favorite in my house.
My favorite way to eat this banana bread is slightly warmed with a spread of butter, perfect alongside a cup of coffee or tea. It also freezes well, so I often bake a loaf and save half for later. Whenever I slice into it, the smell brings back cozy mornings or relaxing afternoon snacks, making it feel like a little moment of joy anytime you need it.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bananas: The star ingredient—use very ripe bananas for the best sweetness and moisture. If you’re short on ripe bananas, you can speed up ripening by placing bananas in a paper bag for a day or two.
Butter & Sour Cream: Butter adds richness, while sour cream keeps the bread moist and tender. You can swap sour cream for plain yogurt or even buttermilk if needed.
Flour: All-purpose flour works perfectly here. For a gluten-free version, try a cup-for-cup gluten-free baking mix, but results may vary slightly.
Chocolate Chips: Semi-sweet is great, but feel free to use milk, dark, or even white chocolate chips. You can also substitute with chopped nuts or dried fruit if you prefer.
Eggs: Eggs help bind and add structure. If you’re avoiding eggs, a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water) per egg can work well.
How Do You Avoid Overmixing the Batter?
Overmixing can make banana bread tough instead of soft. Here’s how to mix just right:
- Combine your dry and wet ingredients until they’re almost combined.
- Use a spatula to gently fold the ingredients together—stop when you don’t see big streaks of flour.
- Resist the urge to keep stirring; a few little lumps are okay.
This keeps the bread tender and soft while still fully baking through. Also, folding in the chocolate chips at the end helps keep them evenly distributed without breaking up.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×5-inch loaf pan – I recommend this size because it helps the bread bake evenly and gives it the perfect shape.
- Mixing bowls – a medium and a large one make it easy to combine ingredients separately.
- Whisk or fork – perfect for mixing dry ingredients without overworking them.
- Electric mixer or hand whisk – helps cream the butter and sugar smoothly, saving effort.
- Rubber spatula – for gently folding in the chocolate chips without breaking them.
- Parchment paper or cooking spray – keeps the loaf from sticking and makes cleanup simpler.
- Toothpick or cake tester – to check if your bread is fully baked in the center.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chocolate chips with chopped nuts or dried fruit for extra texture and flavor.
- Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a cozy spice twist.
- Mix in white chocolate chips or peanut butter chips for a different kind of sweet bite.
- Fold in blueberries or raspberries for a fruity version that pairs beautifully with the bananas.
How to Make Chocolate Chip Banana Bread
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed (about 1 ½ cups)
- ½ cup sour cream or plain yogurt
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and about 60-70 minutes for baking. Add another 10 minutes to let the bread cool before slicing. So, plan for roughly 1 hour and 25 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Pan:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Set this mixture aside for later.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar:
In a large bowl, use a mixer or whisk to beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mix becomes light and fluffy.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla:
Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully combined before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Mix in Bananas and Sour Cream:
Add the mashed ripe bananas and sour cream (or plain yogurt) to your wet ingredients and mix until everything is well combined.
6. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Mix gently just until combined; avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender.
7. Add Chocolate Chips:
Fold in the chocolate chips, saving a handful to sprinkle on top of the batter if you like extra melty chips on the crust.
8. Bake the Bread:
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Sprinkle the reserved chocolate chips on top, if desired. Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
9. Cool and Serve:
Let the banana bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy slightly warm or at room temperature, plain or with butter.
Can I Use Frozen Bananas for This Banana Bread?
Yes! Just thaw frozen bananas completely before mashing them. They might be extra soft and watery, so drain any excess liquid to avoid making the batter too runny.
Can I Substitute Yogurt for Sour Cream?
Absolutely! Plain yogurt works as a great substitute for sour cream and will keep your banana bread moist and tender.
How Should I Store Leftover Banana Bread?
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge.
Can I Add Nuts or Other Mix-Ins?
Of course! Walnuts, pecans, or dried fruit are excellent additions. Just fold them in along with the chocolate chips before baking.