There’s something undeniably comforting about a loaf of freshly baked banana bread, especially when it’s studded with luscious dark chocolate chunks and crunchy walnuts. This Dark Chocolate Chip & Walnut Banana Bread is not just a sweet treat; it’s a delightful fusion of flavors and textures that elevates the humble banana bread to new heights. Perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a cozy dessert, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your baking repertoire.
Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation
This Dark Chocolate Chip & Walnut Banana Bread is more than just a delicious loaf; it’s a celebration of bananas at their peak ripeness. The rich, dark chocolate pairs beautifully with the natural sweetness of the bananas, while the toasted walnuts add a satisfying crunch. Not only is it a fantastic way to use overripe bananas, but it also offers a balance of flavors that appeals to both chocolate lovers and health-conscious eaters. Plus, it’s simple to make and always a crowd-pleaser!
Your Shopping Guide
Before you start baking, make sure you have these essential ingredients on hand:
- Dark chocolate chunks (85g) – Opt for high-quality dark chocolate for the best flavor.
- Walnuts (39g) – Toasted and roughly chopped for added depth and crunch.
- All-purpose flour (156.25g) – The base of your banana bread.
- Baking soda (1.25 teaspoons) – This will help your bread rise.
- Kosher salt (0.25 teaspoon) – A little salt enhances the sweetness.
- Mashed bananas (225g) – About 2 to 3 medium bananas, ripe and sweet.
- Vegetable oil (54.5ml) – For moisture and richness.
- Granulated sugar (100g) – To sweeten the bread.
- Egg – Acts as a binding agent.
- Sour cream (57.5ml) – Adds moisture and a slight tang.
Must-Have Equipment
To make your baking experience seamless, gather the following equipment:
- Mixing bowls – For combining your ingredients.
- Loaf pan – A standard 9×5-inch pan works perfectly.
- Whisk and spatula – For mixing and folding ingredients.
- Measuring cups and spoons – Accurate measurements are key to success.
- Oven mitts – Safety first when handling hot pans!
Cooking Dark Chocolate Chip & Walnut Banana Bread: The Process
Ready to bake? Follow these simple steps for a delicious loaf:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your bread bakes evenly.
Step 2: Prepare Your Loaf Pan
Grease your loaf pan with a little vegetable oil or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and kosher salt until well combined. Set aside.
Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, combine the mashed bananas, vegetable oil, granulated sugar, and egg. Mix until smooth, then fold in the sour cream until fully incorporated.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; some lumps are okay!
Step 6: Add Chocolate and Walnuts
Fold in the dark chocolate chunks and toasted walnuts until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 7: Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 8: Cool and Enjoy
Once baked, remove the banana bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. Enjoy your Dark Chocolate Chip & Walnut Banana Bread warm or at room temperature!
Smart Substitutions
If you’re looking to customize your banana bread, consider these substitutions:
- For a healthier option, replace granulated sugar with coconut sugar or maple syrup.
- Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for added nutrition.
- Substitute the vegetable oil with melted coconut oil for a different flavor profile.
- Replace walnuts with pecans or almonds if you prefer a different nut.
- Use Greek yogurt in place of sour cream for a protein boost.
Avoid These Traps
When making your Dark Chocolate Chip & Walnut Banana Bread, keep these tips in mind:
- Don’t skip the toasting step for the walnuts; it enhances their flavor significantly.
- Avoid overmixing the batter, as this can lead to a dense loaf.
- Ensure your bananas are very ripe for the best sweetness and texture.
- Don’t open the oven door too early while baking; this can cause the bread to sink.
Storage Pro Tips
To keep your banana bread fresh and delicious, follow these storage tips:
- Store leftover banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- If you want to keep it longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
- To enjoy frozen banana bread, simply thaw at room temperature or microwave for a few seconds.
- Reheat individual slices in the toaster for a warm, cozy treat.
Popular Questions
Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid from the frozen bananas before mashing them.
Can I omit the nuts in the banana bread?
Yes, you can omit the walnuts if you prefer a nut-free version. You can also substitute with chocolate chips if you want extra chocolatey goodness!
How do I know when my banana bread is done baking?
The banana bread is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, or with just a few moist crumbs. If it’s still wet, give it a few more minutes in the oven.
Can I make this banana bread gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to check that the other ingredients are also gluten-free.
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The Last Word
This Dark Chocolate Chip & Walnut Banana Bread is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will satisfy your sweet tooth while also providing a little bit of wholesome goodness. Whether you’re enjoying a slice with your morning coffee or sharing it with friends, this recipe is sure to impress. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to savor the rich, chocolatey goodness of this scrumptious banana bread!
Dark Chocolate Chip & Walnut Banana Bread
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even baking.
- Grease your loaf pan with vegetable oil or line it with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and kosher salt until well combined. Set aside.
- In another bowl, combine the mashed bananas, vegetable oil, granulated sugar, and egg. Mix until smooth, then fold in the sour cream.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined.
- Fold in the dark chocolate chunks and toasted walnuts until evenly distributed.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 55-65 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Remove from oven and let cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- Store banana bread in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature.
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap to freeze for up to 3 months.
- Thaw frozen banana bread at room temperature or microwave for a few seconds.
