Description
Rich, moist, and packed with bold flavor, this Chocolate Espresso Banana Bread is a game-changer for banana bread lovers. Ripe bananas, dark cocoa, melty chocolate chips, and a hint of espresso come together in one incredibly satisfying loaf. Whether for breakfast, an afternoon treat, or a late-night indulgence, this recipe delivers comfort with a gourmet twist.
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Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
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1 cup all-purpose flour
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½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
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1 tsp baking soda
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½ tsp salt
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1 tsp instant espresso powder (or instant coffee)
Wet Ingredients:
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3 very ripe bananas, mashed
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½ cup brown sugar (or coconut sugar)
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¼ cup granulated sugar
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2 large eggs
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⅓ cup vegetable oil (or melted butter)
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1 tsp vanilla extract
Add-Ins:
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¾ cup chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate
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Optional: ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
Instructions
Step 1: Prep Your Pan & Oven
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Grease a loaf pan and line with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients
3. In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, salt, and espresso powder. Set aside.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
4. In another bowl, mash the bananas until smooth.
5. Add sugars, eggs, oil, and vanilla extract. Whisk until well combined.
Step 4: Make the Batter
6. Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined—do not overmix.
7. Fold in chocolate chips and nuts (if using).
Step 5: Bake
8. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
9. Sprinkle extra chocolate chips on top if desired.
10. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean (a few moist crumbs are fine).
11. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 6: Slice & Serve
12. Slice and enjoy warm or at room temperature.
13. Store leftovers tightly wrapped or in an airtight container.
Notes
Use Ripe Bananas – The darker, the better for sweetness and moisture.
Don’t Skip the Espresso – It deepens the chocolate flavor without making it taste like coffee.
Don’t Overmix – Gently combine for a tender crumb.
Check Early – Every oven is different; start checking at 50 minutes.
Cool Before Slicing – Warm bread may crumble if sliced too soon.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Cuisine: American