Double Chocolate Banana Bread is a rich, moist, and decadent twist on the classic banana bread. Perfect for chocolate lovers, this loaf combines the deep flavor of cocoa powder with melty chocolate chips. It’s a delightful way to use up overripe bananas and indulge your sweet tooth with every fudgy bite.
Ingredients
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3 ripe bananas, mashed
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1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
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1/2 cup brown sugar
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1/4 cup granulated sugar
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2 large eggs
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1 cup all-purpose flour
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1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
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1 teaspoon baking soda
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1/4 teaspoon salt
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1 cup chocolate chips (plus extra for topping, optional)
Directions
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.
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In a large bowl, mash the bananas. Add melted butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
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Sift in flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Stir until just combined—do not overmix.
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Gently fold in the chocolate chips.
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Pour batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Sprinkle extra chocolate chips on top if desired.
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Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs (not wet batter).
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Let cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Nutrients (per serving, approx.)
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Calories: 320
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Total Fat: 16g
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Saturated Fat: 9g
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Cholesterol: 55mg
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Sodium: 180mg
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Total Carbohydrate: 42g
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Dietary Fiber: 3g
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Sugars: 22g
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Protein: 4g
Why Go Double Chocolate?
Adding chocolate to banana bread isn’t a new concept, but going “double” means incorporating both unsweetened cocoa powder and chocolate chips, delivering layers of chocolate flavor and texture. The cocoa powder infuses the batter with rich chocolate flavor, while the chocolate chips offer melty bursts in every bite. This combo not only satisfies a chocolate craving but also pairs beautifully with the subtle fruitiness of banana.
The bananas provide natural sweetness and moisture, while the cocoa deepens the flavor profile, giving it an almost brownie-like richness — but with the wholesome texture of banana bread.
What Makes This Recipe Stand Out
While there are countless variations of chocolate banana bread, this recipe balances indulgence and simplicity. It uses ingredients most home bakers already have in their pantry, and it doesn’t require any special equipment. The result is a dense, moist loaf with a tender crumb, packed with enough chocolate to be considered a treat, but not so much that it loses its banana bread identity.
Here are a few standout elements of this particular Double Chocolate Banana Bread:
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Moisture from ripe bananas and butter ensures the loaf stays tender for days.
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Brown sugar adds a hint of molasses and depth compared to using white sugar alone.
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Cocoa powder and chocolate chips work together to create a multilayered chocolate experience.
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Simple preparation, with minimal clean-up — just one bowl if you’re efficient!
This recipe is ideal for those looking for something a bit more decadent than the average banana bread, yet still homestyle and comforting.
Serving Suggestions and Storage Tips
Double Chocolate Banana Bread is versatile when it comes to serving. You can enjoy a thick slice warm with a pat of butter or a dollop of whipped cream. For a more dessert-like approach, try serving it with vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce. It’s also a perfect companion to a morning cup of coffee or an afternoon latte.
Storage:
Once baked and cooled, the loaf can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3–4 days. It actually tastes better the next day, as the flavors deepen and the texture becomes even more tender. If you want to store it longer, it freezes beautifully. Simply wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and store in a zip-top bag in the freezer for up to 3 months. To enjoy, just thaw at room temperature or microwave for 20–30 seconds.
Tips for Perfect Results
To ensure your Double Chocolate Banana Bread comes out just right every time, here are a few tried-and-true tips:
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Use very ripe bananas: The blacker the banana, the better. They’re softer, sweeter, and easier to mash, which contributes to both moisture and flavor.
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Don’t overmix the batter: Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour, making the bread tough. Stir just until the dry ingredients are incorporated.
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Check for doneness carefully: Chocolate loaves can be tricky since the dark color hides doneness cues. Insert a toothpick into the center — it should come out with moist crumbs, not wet batter.
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Add a handful of extra chocolate chips on top before baking for a more appealing presentation and extra chocolaty bites.
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Customize the sweetness: If your bananas are extra ripe and sweet, you might reduce the sugar slightly if preferred.
Variations and Add-Ins
One of the joys of banana bread is its adaptability. Here are a few ways to make this recipe your own:
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Nutty crunch: Add 1/2 cup chopped walnuts, pecans, or hazelnuts for added texture and a nutty counterpoint to the chocolate.
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Swirl it up: Swirl in a spoonful of peanut butter or Nutella into the batter before baking for a fun flavor twist.
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Dairy-free: Swap butter for coconut oil or a plant-based margarine, and use dairy-free chocolate chips to make it vegan (along with flax eggs or another egg substitute).
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Mocha banana bread: Add a teaspoon of instant coffee or espresso powder to enhance the chocolate flavor with a subtle coffee note.
Health Considerations
Although Double Chocolate Banana Bread is certainly an indulgent treat, it can still offer some nutritional benefits:
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Bananas are a good source of potassium, vitamin C, and vitamin B6.
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Cocoa powder contains antioxidants like flavonoids, which have been linked to heart health.
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Homemade control: Making it from scratch allows you to adjust the sugar, swap in whole wheat flour, or incorporate healthy add-ins like chia seeds, flaxseeds, or protein powder.
However, with roughly 320 calories and 16g of fat per serving, moderation is key if you’re watching your intake.
Conclusion
Double Chocolate Banana Bread is more than just an upgrade to a classic — it’s a celebration of texture, flavor, and comfort. Whether you’re an experienced baker or someone just getting started, this recipe offers the perfect balance of ease and indulgence. It’s a surefire hit for potlucks, brunches, lunchbox treats, or cozy evenings at home. Plus, it’s a practical way to use up bananas that might otherwise go to waste.
With just a few pantry staples and a little time in the oven, you can create a rich, fudgy loaf that’s as good for sharing as it is for savoring solo. Once you try it, you’ll likely find yourself waiting for bananas to overripen — just for the excuse to make it again.