Dark Chocolate Chip & Walnut Banana Bread

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting treat that combines the rich flavors of dark chocolate and the crunch of walnuts with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas, then look no further than this delightful Dark Chocolate Chip & Walnut Banana Bread. This recipe is perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or even a sweet indulgence after dinner. The moist banana bread is packed with chunks of dark chocolate and toasted walnuts, bringing a gourmet twist to a classic favorite.

Why I Love This Recipe

This Dark Chocolate Chip & Walnut Banana Bread is not only delicious, but it also has a wonderful texture that elevates it above standard banana bread. The combination of dark chocolate chunks melts beautifully into the batter, creating pockets of rich chocolate flavor. The toasted walnuts add a satisfying crunch that complements the softness of the bread. Plus, it’s an excellent way to use up overripe bananas, making it both practical and indulgent. Each slice is a little piece of heaven that will leave you craving more!

What to Buy

Before diving into the baking process, ensure you have the following ingredients on hand:

• Dark Chocolate Chunks: ¾ cup (85g), for rich chocolate flavor.
• Walnuts: ⅓ cup (39g), toasted and roughly chopped for added crunch.
• All-Purpose Flour: 1 cup (156.25g), the base of your banana bread.
• Baking Soda: 1 teaspoon (1.25 teaspoons), for leavening.
• Kosher Salt: ¼ teaspoon, to enhance the flavors.
• Mashed Bananas: 1 cup (225g), about 2-3 medium bananas, for natural sweetness and moisture.
• Vegetable Oil: ½ cup (54.5ml), for a moist texture.
• Granulated Sugar: ½ cup (100g), to sweeten the bread.
• Egg: 1, for binding the ingredients.
• Sour Cream: ¼ cup (57.5ml), to add extra moisture and richness.

Equipment Breakdown

Before you start baking, gather the necessary equipment:

• Mixing Bowls: A large bowl for mixing wet ingredients and a medium bowl for dry ingredients.
• Whisk: For combining ingredients smoothly.
• Spatula: To fold in the chocolate and walnuts gently.
• Loaf Pan: A standard 9×5 inch loaf pan for baking.
• Oven: Preheated to ensure even baking.

How to Prepare Dark Chocolate Chip & Walnut Banana Bread

Now that you have everything ready, let’s get started on this delightful recipe!

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your banana bread will bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Loaf Pan

Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and kosher salt. Set this aside while you prepare the wet ingredients.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, vegetable oil, granulated sugar, and the egg. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

Step 5: Add Sour Cream

Fold in the sour cream into the banana mixture until fully incorporated. This will add an extra layer of moisture to your banana bread.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently. Be careful not to overmix; you want to combine them just until there are no visible streaks of flour.

Step 7: Fold in Chocolate and Walnuts

Using a spatula, gently fold in the dark chocolate chunks and toasted walnuts. This is where the magic happens, as the chocolate begins to melt slightly.

Step 8: Pour and Bake

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 9: Cool and Serve

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!

What to Use Instead

If you’re missing an ingredient or two, here are some substitutions you can consider:

• Dark Chocolate Chunks: Use semi-sweet or milk chocolate chunks for a different flavor profile.
• Walnuts: Pecans or almonds can be used as an alternative for a nutty crunch.
• Vegetable Oil: Melted coconut oil or unsweetened applesauce can be used for a healthier version.
• Sour Cream: Plain Greek yogurt can work as a great substitute.

Chef’s Notes

• Ensure your bananas are very ripe for the best flavor.
• Feel free to adjust the amount of chocolate and walnuts according to your preference.
• If you like, you can sprinkle some extra chopped walnuts on top before baking for a beautiful presentation.
• This recipe can easily be doubled if you want to make two loaves at once!

Freezer-Friendly Notes

This Dark Chocolate Chip & Walnut Banana Bread is freezer-friendly! Once cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and bring it to room temperature before slicing.

Troubleshooting Q&A

Why is my banana bread dense?

A dense banana bread can be a result of overmixing the batter or using too many bananas. Be sure to mix just until combined and measure your bananas accurately.

How do I know when my banana bread is done?

Your banana bread is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. If it comes out with wet batter, it needs more time in the oven.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! You can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour. Make sure the blend contains a binding agent for best results.

What can I add to the batter for extra flavor?

You can add a teaspoon of vanilla extract, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or even a handful of chocolate chips for extra indulgence. The possibilities are endless!

Don’t Miss These

• Banana Bread With Walnuts
• Chocolate Fudge Bundt Cake

Let’s Eat

Indulging in a slice of Dark Chocolate Chip & Walnut Banana Bread is a delightful experience that can brighten any day. Whether you’re enjoying it with your morning coffee or as a late-night snack, this banana bread is sure to satisfy your cravings. The combination of flavors and textures creates a truly scrumptious treat that you’ll want to bake over and over again. Enjoy every bite!