Total Cooking Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Difficulty Level: Easy / Beginner-Friendly
Few things are as comforting as classic banana nut bread—but when you add chocolate chips, it transforms into something truly irresistible. This Easy Banana Nut Bread with Chocolate Chips is soft, moist, and packed with sweet banana flavor, crunchy nuts, and pockets of melted chocolate that make every bite feel special. As it bakes, the scent of ripe bananas, toasted nuts, and warm chocolate fills the kitchen with pure cozy energy.
What makes this recipe stand out is how effortless it is. No fancy equipment, no complicated steps—just a simple batter that comes together quickly and bakes into a reliable, crowd-pleasing loaf. It’s perfect for using up overripe bananas and turning them into something everyone will happily reach for again and again.
Each slice averages 290–330 calories, depending on thickness, making it indulgent yet balanced enough for breakfast, snack time, or dessert.
Key Ingredients
Each ingredient plays a role in creating that perfect balance of moist crumb, rich flavor, and nutty crunch.
- Ripe Bananas – Add natural sweetness, moisture, and classic banana flavor.
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure and stability to the loaf.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens and keeps the crumb tender.
- Brown Sugar – Adds moisture and a subtle caramel depth.
- Unsalted Butter – Brings richness and a soft texture.
- Eggs – Bind ingredients and help the bread rise evenly.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances sweetness and rounds out flavors.
- Baking Soda – Gives the bread its gentle lift.
- Salt – Balances sweetness and sharpens all flavors.
- Ground Cinnamon – Adds warmth and cozy aroma.
- Chopped Walnuts or Pecans – Provide crunch and nutty contrast.
- Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips – Create melty pockets of chocolate throughout.
- Milk or Yogurt – Adds extra moisture and tenderness.
- Vegetable Oil (optional) – Helps keep the bread soft for days.
How to Make It (Step-by-Step Method)
1. Prep the Oven and Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a standard loaf pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy lifting.
2. Mash and Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, mash the bananas until mostly smooth. Stir in melted butter, oil (if using), granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well, then stir in vanilla.
3. Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon to evenly distribute the leavening.
4. Make the Batter
Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, alternating with milk or yogurt. Mix just until combined—overmixing can make the bread dense.
5. Add Nuts and Chocolate Chips
Fold in chopped nuts and chocolate chips, reserving a small handful to sprinkle on top for extra texture and visual appeal.
6. Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Bake for 55–65 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Tent loosely with foil if the top browns too quickly.
7. Cool and Rest
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Rest for at least 20 minutes before slicing for the best texture.
Serving Suggestions
This banana nut bread with chocolate chips shines in both casual and dressed-up settings. For a simple treat, serve thick slices warm with a bit of butter melting into the crumb. The contrast between crunchy nuts, soft banana bread, and melted chocolate is pure comfort.
For breakfast or brunch, lightly toast slices and spread with cream cheese, peanut butter, or almond butter. Pair it with fresh fruit and coffee for a relaxed yet satisfying start to the day. You can also drizzle slices with honey or maple syrup for an extra touch of sweetness.
If serving guests, arrange slices on a wooden board with berries, yogurt, and a dusting of powdered sugar. Cut into smaller portions for lunchboxes or snack trays—it’s sturdy, satisfying, and always a hit with kids and adults alike.
Storage + Meal Prep
This bread stores beautifully, making it ideal for baking ahead. Once fully cooled, wrap the loaf tightly or store slices in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for 5–6 days, allowing slices to come to room temperature before serving.
To freeze, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. This makes it easy to grab a slice whenever a craving hits. Thaw overnight in the fridge or warm gently in the microwave for 20–30 seconds.
Reheating brings the chocolate back to life and refreshes the crumb. Add fresh banana slices, a sprinkle of nuts, or an extra few chocolate chips on top to make leftovers feel freshly baked.
Conclusion
This Easy Banana Nut Bread with Chocolate Chips is the kind of recipe you’ll come back to again and again. It’s comforting, reliable, and just indulgent enough to feel special without being complicated. The bananas keep it moist, the nuts add crunch, and the chocolate chips make it unforgettable.
Whether you bake it for family, friends, or just yourself, this loaf is guaranteed to disappear quickly. Give it a try, customize it to your taste, and don’t forget to share how it turned out—great recipes are always better when they’re shared, one slice at a time.
