Introduction
There’s nothing quite as comforting as the rich aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through the kitchen, especially when it’s filled with the decadent flavor of chocolate and the natural sweetness of ripe bananas. This One Bowl Double Chocolate Banana Bread is the perfect solution for those overripe bananas sitting on your counter, waiting to be transformed into something truly delicious. It’s simple, requires just one bowl, and yields an indulgent loaf that’s perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a sweet snack.
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup cocoa powder
- 1 cup chocolate chips
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 1 loaf
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan to ensure your bread slides out easily after baking.
- In a large mixing bowl, take those ripe bananas and mash them with a fork until they become a smooth, creamy mixture.
- Pour in the melted butter, stirring it into the mashed bananas to blend the flavors.
- Next, add in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract, mixing everything together until well combined.
- Sprinkle the baking soda and salt over the mixture, gently mixing to incorporate them without overworking the batter.
- Carefully fold in the flour and cocoa powder, stirring until just combined—this will keep your banana bread wonderfully moist.
- Finally, fold in the chocolate chips, ensuring they are well distributed throughout the batter.
- Pour the rich, chocolatey batter into your prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean—your kitchen will smell heavenly!
- Once baked, let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Notes or Tips
- If you prefer a touch of nuttiness, try adding 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for extra texture.
- This banana bread can be stored in an airtight container for several days—if it lasts that long!
- For an extra treat, serve your banana bread warm with a smear of butter or a scoop of ice cream.
Cooking Techniques
The key to this recipe is the gentle mixing technique. By mixing just until combined, you ensure that the bread remains fluffy and moist. Overmixing can develop gluten in the flour, leading to a denser loaf. Also, using ripe bananas not only maximizes sweetness but also enhances the banana flavor, making each bite a delightful experience.
FAQ
- Can I use frozen bananas? Yes, thawing frozen bananas works wonderfully! Just make sure to drain any excess liquid before mashing.
- How can I tell when my banana bread is done? A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
- Can I double the recipe? Absolutely! Just make sure to use a larger pan or two separate loaf pans, and adjust the baking time as needed.
Conclusion
This One Bowl Double Chocolate Banana Bread is not just a recipe; it’s an invitation to savor the cozy moments in life. With its rich chocolate flavor complemented by the natural sweetness of bananas, it’s bound to become a cherished staple in your baking repertoire. Whether you enjoy it fresh out of the oven or toasted the next day, each bite promises a delightful escape that’s sure to warm your heart.