Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch (23×13 cm) loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
- Combine dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars
- Cream the butter and sugars: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Bananas
- Add eggs: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
- Mix in bananas and vanilla: Stir in the mashed bananas and vanilla extract until combined.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Add dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Fold in chocolate chips and nuts: Gently fold in the chocolate chips and chopped nuts (if using).
Step 6: Bake the Bread
- Pour into pan: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- Cool: Allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips and Tricks
- Ripe bananas: For the best flavor and sweetness, use very ripe bananas. They should have plenty of brown spots.
- Avoid overmixing: Overmixing the batter can result in a dense loaf. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Storage: Store the banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before freezing.
Conclusion
Chocolate Chip Banana Bread is a wonderfully indulgent twist on classic banana bread. With its moist texture and chocolatey goodness, it’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re enjoying it with your morning coffee or as a sweet treat after dinner.
Enjoy baking and savoring this delicious chocolate chip banana bread!