Introduction
Welcome to the cozy world of baking! If you’re craving a delightful treat that’s perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack, look no further. This One Bowl Double Chocolate Banana Bread is rich, moist, and bursting with chocolatey goodness. It’s a wonderful way to use up those perfectly ripe bananas sitting on your counter, and best of all, it comes together in just one bowl! The marriage of bananas and chocolate creates an irresistible flavor that will have everyone coming back for seconds (or thirds!). Let’s get baking!
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 70 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 an easy release after baking.
- In a large mixing bowl, use a fork to mash the ripe bananas until they are smooth and creamy, releasing their sweet aroma.
- Stir in the melted butter, mixing well to combine the flavors beautifully.
- Add the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract, continue stirring until everything is nicely incorporated and the mixture is glossy.
- Sprinkle the baking soda and a pinch of salt over your batter, then give it a good stir to evenly distribute the leavening and seasoning.
- Gently fold in the all-purpose flour and cocoa powder until just combined; be careful not to overmix to keep the bread tender.
- Finally, fold in the chocolate chips, giving your bread a delightful burst of flavor with each bite!
- Pour the rich, chocolatey batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth out the top for an even bake.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, signaling the perfect bake.
- Once baked, allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps develop the lovely texture!
Notes or Tips
For an extra indulgence, feel free to sprinkle some chocolate chips on top of the batter before baking. If you’re not a fan of chocolate, you can substitute the chocolate chips with nuts or dried fruit for a different twist. This banana bread also freezes beautifully, so you can enjoy a slice whenever a chocolate craving strikes!
Cooking Techniques
Mashing the bananas is critical for this recipe—you want them to be perfectly smooth for a desirable texture. Be cautious when mixing the dry ingredients to avoid overworking the batter, as this can lead to a tougher loaf. The key to the perfect banana bread is all about gentle folding.
FAQ
Can I use frozen bananas? Absolutely! Just thaw them completely and mash as usual before using them in the recipe.
How should I store the banana bread? Keep it covered at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for a longer shelf life. For even longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free? Yes! Substitute the butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free margarine, and you’ll have a delicious dairy-free version.
Conclusion
There you have it—a simple yet decadent One Bowl Double Chocolate Banana Bread that is sure to delight your taste buds with every bite. Whether you enjoy it warm right out of the oven or toasted with a bit of butter, this recipe is bound to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. So grab those ripe bananas and start mixing up a loaf that’s as satisfying to make as it is to eat. Happy baking!