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 large 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 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips

Highlighted under: Homemade Baking Favorites

I absolutely love baking banana bread, and this recipe is a favorite in my household. Each time the bananas start to brown, I get excited knowing a delicious, warm loaf is just around the corner. The addition of mini chocolate chips elevates the classic flavor, creating a delightful treat perfect for breakfast or as a sweet snack. It's easy to make, and the smell that fills the kitchen while it’s baking is simply irresistible. I hope you enjoy making this banana bread as much as I do!

Created by

June Weatherby

Last updated on 2026-01-05T20:15:34.346Z

Baking banana bread with mini chocolate chips has become a cherished tradition for me over the years. I’ve perfected this recipe through countless batches, adjusting the balance of flavors and ingredients until it reached its delicious peak. My secret? Using very ripe bananas to enhance the sweetness and moisture. This simple substitution is what transforms the bread into a tender delight that everyone loves.

Another tip I’ve learned is that folding in the chocolate chips gently ensures they’re evenly distributed without falling to the bottom. This method makes each slice a mix of warm banana goodness and sweet chocolatey bursts that everyone will rave about. I can’t wait for you to try it!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich banana flavor enriched with melty chocolate chips
Moist and fluffy texture that keeps you coming back for more
Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack

Understanding Ingredient Roles

In this banana bread recipe, ripe bananas are crucial. Their natural sweetness and moisture contribute to the bread's flavor and texture. Opt for bananas that are heavily speckled or even blackened for optimal sweetness. If you only have firm bananas, you can microwave a unripe banana for 30 seconds to soften it, but keep in mind this may alter the flavor slightly.

The melted butter is another key player, adding richness and moisture to the loaf. It also provides a nice tender crumb. If you need to make this recipe dairy-free, you can substitute the butter with coconut oil or a plant-based margarine. Just ensure it is melted before adding it to the mix.

Baking Techniques for Success

When mixing the batter, be careful to incorporate the ingredients without overmixing. This can lead to a denser texture. Mix gently until you no longer see dry flour; it's perfectly fine for the batter to be lumpy. The flour should slightly coat the other ingredients without becoming fully smooth, preventing gluten development.

In terms of baking, preheating your oven is essential. An accurately heated oven helps the banana bread rise properly and develop a beautiful golden crust. Use an oven thermometer to ensure your oven is at the right temperature, as many home ovens can be off by 25°F or more.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your delicious banana bread:

Ingredients

3 large 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 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup mini chocolate chips

Once you have all your ingredients ready, you're set to start baking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to bake your banana bread:

Prepare the Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter and mashed bananas. Stir in baking soda and salt, then mix in sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract until well incorporated. Finally, add the flour and mix gently until just combined, taking care not to overmix. Fold in the mini chocolate chips.

Bake the Bread

Pour the batter into a greased 4x8 inch loaf pan. Bake for 60-65 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once done, allow it to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Serve and Enjoy

Let the banana bread cool completely before slicing. Enjoy it plain or with a pat of butter for an extra treat!

Now that your banana bread is ready, enjoy the delicious results of your hard work!

Pro Tips

For a twist, try adding walnuts or swapping in dark chocolate chips instead of mini ones for a different flavor profile.

Storing and Freezing Banana Bread

Allow your banana bread to cool completely before storing it to prevent moisture buildup. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh for up to four days at room temperature. If you want to extend its shelf life, consider freezing individual slices. Wrap them in plastic, then place them in a freezer-safe bag, where they'll last for about three months.

When you're ready to enjoy a frozen slice, simply remove it from the freezer and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, or pop it in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for a quick thaw. You can also lightly toast slices for a warm, comforting snack.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This banana bread is delightful on its own, but you can elevate it with a smear of cream cheese or almond butter for added richness and flavor. Serve it warm, straight from the oven, or toasted for a lovely contrast of textures. Pair it with a cup of coffee or tea for a perfect breakfast or afternoon indulgence.

For an added twist, you can experiment with mix-ins. Try adding nuts like walnuts or pecans, or throw in some dried fruits like cranberries or coconut flakes for a unique flavor profile. Feel free to adjust the amount of mini chocolate chips based on your preference; if you can’t find them, regular chocolate chips can also work, but make sure to use a smaller size to maintain that delightful pop of chocolate in every bite.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas?

Yes, just thaw them and drain excess moisture before mashing.

→ 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 make banana muffins instead?

Absolutely! Simply divide the batter into a muffin tin and decrease the baking time to about 20-25 minutes.

→ What should I do if my banana bread is too dense?

Ensure you don’t overmix the batter, which can make the bread dense. Also, make sure you're using the right banana ripeness.