Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Chocolate Walnut Banana Bread is the perfect combination of rich, indulgent flavors and comforting textures. The sweetness of ripe bananas pairs beautifully with the deep, rich cocoa flavor and the crunch of toasted walnuts. It’s easy to make, using just one bowl, and provides the perfect balance of moistness and decadence. Whether you’re enjoying it as a breakfast treat, a snack, or a dessert, this loaf will quickly become a go-to favorite. Plus, it’s customizable—add mini chocolate chips for an extra sweet touch!
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 1 cup chopped walnuts (toasted preferred)
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, mash the bananas. Stir in the melted butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla until smooth.
- Add the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Mix until just combined.
- Fold in the Greek yogurt, walnuts, and chocolate chips (if using).
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean with a few moist crumbs.
- Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 10 slices
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Variations
- Nut-Free Option: Skip the walnuts and replace them with a mix of dried fruit such as raisins or cranberries.
- Extra Chocolatey: Add more chocolate chips to the batter, or swirl in some melted chocolate for an extra rich flavor.
- Vegan Option: Replace the butter with a plant-based butter substitute and use flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water for each egg).
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store at room temperature for 2–3 days in an airtight container.
- Freezing: Freeze individual slices for up to 3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil before freezing.
- Reheating: Reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 20 seconds or in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes.
FAQs
1. Can I use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar?
Yes, you can substitute brown sugar for granulated sugar to give the banana bread a richer, molasses-like flavor.
2. Can I make this recipe without eggs?
Yes, you can replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg) or use an egg substitute like mashed avocado or applesauce.
3. Do I need to toast the walnuts?
Toasting the walnuts enhances their flavor, but it’s optional. You can use raw walnuts if you prefer.
4. Can I use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Almond flour can be used, but it will change the texture of the bread. If using almond flour, consider using a combination of almond and all-purpose flour for the best result.
5. Can I add more bananas to this recipe?
You can add one more banana for extra moisture, but be mindful that this may affect the texture and baking time.
6. Can I use a different type of yogurt?
Yes, you can substitute the Greek yogurt with sour cream or regular yogurt if you prefer.
7. How do I prevent the banana bread from sinking in the middle?
Make sure not to overmix the batter, as this can lead to a denser loaf. Also, check that your baking soda is fresh for optimal rise.
8. Can I freeze the whole loaf?
Yes, you can freeze the entire loaf. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
9. Can I add other spices to this banana bread?
You can add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a dash of allspice for an extra layer of flavor.
10. Can I use semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips?
Absolutely! Semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips will work perfectly in this recipe if you prefer a less sweet, more intense chocolate flavor.
Conclusion
Chocolate Walnut Banana Bread is a deliciously moist loaf that combines the best of banana bread with the indulgence of chocolate and walnuts. This easy one-bowl recipe is perfect for a quick breakfast, dessert, or snack, and it can be enjoyed by everyone. Its rich flavor, texture, and versatility make it a must-try for anyone who loves a comforting homemade treat. Enjoy a slice (or two), and don’t forget to share with family and friends!
Chocolate Walnut Banana Bread – The Ultimate One-Bowl Loaf You’ll Love
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 10 slices
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Chocolate Walnut Banana Bread is the perfect combination of rich, indulgent flavors with a moist, comforting texture. The sweetness of ripe bananas pairs beautifully with deep cocoa and toasted walnuts. This easy, one-bowl loaf is customizable and perfect for breakfast, snack, or dessert.
Ingredients
3 ripe bananas, mashed
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
3/4 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
1 cup chopped walnuts (toasted preferred)
1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, mash the bananas. Stir in the melted butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla until smooth.
- Add the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Mix until just combined.
- Fold in the Greek yogurt, walnuts, and chocolate chips (if using).
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean with a few moist crumbs.
- Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Notes
For a nut-free version, skip the walnuts and use dried fruit like raisins or cranberries.
For extra chocolatey goodness, add more chocolate chips or swirl melted chocolate into the batter.
For a vegan option, replace butter with a plant-based substitute and use flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg).
Store at room temperature for 2–3 days or freeze individual slices for up to 3 months.
If you want a deeper flavor, you can use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 270
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
