Chocolate Banana Bread

Chocolate Banana Bread

Chocolate Banana Bread is a delicious twist on classic banana bread, combining the rich flavor of chocolate with the natural sweetness of bananas, and the crunch of walnuts and chewiness of raisins. It’s a perfect treat for breakfast, a snack, or dessert.

Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, room temperature
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 3 ripe bananas, mashed
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
  • 1/2 cup raisins (or chocolate chips, if preferred)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan:
    1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
    2. Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
  2. Mix Wet Ingredients:
    1. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
    2. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
    3. Stir in the mashed bananas and vanilla extract.
  3. Combine Dry Ingredients:
    1. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
  4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
    1. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined.
    2. Fold in the chopped walnuts and raisins (or chocolate chips if using).
  5. Pour and Bake:
    1. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
    2. Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
    3. If the top starts to over-brown, cover loosely with aluminum foil.
  6. Cool:
    1. Allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
    2. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Tips:

  • Bananas: Use very ripe bananas for the best flavor and sweetness.
  • Mix-Ins: Feel free to substitute or add other mix-ins such as coconut flakes or dried fruit.
  • Storage: Store the banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before freezing. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

This chocolate banana bread with walnuts and raisins is a delightful twist on a classic recipe, offering a rich chocolate flavor complemented by the texture of nuts and the sweetness of raisins. Enjoy!