Chocolate Espresso Banana Bread

Rich, moist, and full of bold flavor, this Chocolate Espresso Banana Bread is a dreamy twist on the classic. Ripe bananas, cocoa powder, and a shot of espresso come together to create a loaf that’s deeply chocolatey with just the right hint of coffee. Whether you’re enjoying it for breakfast, dessert, or a midday pick-me-up, this banana bread is irresistibly delicious and easy to make.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Deep, Bold Flavor – Espresso and cocoa make it ultra-rich and chocolatey.
Super Moist – Bananas and oil keep it soft and tender.
Easy to Make – Just mix, pour, and bake.
Great for Breakfast or Dessert – Pairs perfectly with your morning coffee or an evening treat.
Freezer-Friendly – Save slices for later indulgence.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tbsp instant espresso powder (or ¼ cup brewed espresso, cooled)
• 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
• ½ cup light brown sugar, packed
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• ⅓ cup vegetable oil (or melted coconut oil)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ cup mini chocolate chips or chunks (plus more for topping)

Optional Add-ins:

• ½ tsp ground cinnamon
• Chopped walnuts or pecans
• Shaved dark chocolate on top

Tools You’ll Need

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk or hand mixer
• Spatula
• 9×5 inch loaf pan
• Parchment paper (optional)
• Wire rack for cooling

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Pan and Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan or line with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, salt, and espresso powder.
2. If using cinnamon or chopped nuts, mix them in now.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

1. In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth.
2. Whisk in brown sugar, granulated sugar, eggs, oil, and vanilla extract until fully combined.

Step 4: Make the Batter

1. Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients.
2. Fold gently until just combined—don’t overmix.
3. Fold in the chocolate chips or chunks.

Step 5: Bake the Bread

1. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
2. Sprinkle extra chocolate chips or shaved dark chocolate on top for a gooey finish.
3. Bake for 50–60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
4. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips for Perfect Banana Bread
Use Overripe Bananas – The spottier, the better for natural sweetness and moisture.
Don’t Overmix – Gently fold for a tender crumb.
Test for Doneness – A few moist crumbs are fine, but no wet batter should remain.
Add Toppings – A sprinkle of coarse sugar or extra chips gives a bakery-style look.
Cool Before Slicing – Makes it easier to cut clean slices without crumbling.

Serving Suggestions
With Coffee – The espresso flavor makes it the perfect match.
As Dessert – Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce.
Toasted with Butter – A warm and cozy snack.
As a Gift – Wrap in parchment and ribbon for a thoughtful homemade treat.
For Brunch – Add to a breakfast spread with fruit and yogurt.

How to Store & Freeze

Storing:

• Room Temp: Store wrapped in foil or airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Refrigerate: Keeps for up to 1 week in the fridge.

Freezing:

• Whole or sliced, wrap tightly in plastic and freeze up to 2 months.
• Thaw at room temp or microwave individual slices.

Reheating:

• Microwave: 10–15 seconds for a warm slice.
• Oven: Reheat at 300°F for 5–10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use brewed coffee instead of espresso powder?
Yes, just use ¼ cup strong cooled coffee and reduce banana puree slightly to keep texture balanced.

2. Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes—just use dairy-free chocolate chips and oil instead of butter.

3. What kind of cocoa is best?
Use unsweetened natural cocoa powder for a rich chocolate flavor.

4. Can I make muffins with this batter?
Absolutely—divide into a muffin tin and bake at 350°F for 18–22 minutes.

5. Can I add peanut butter?
Yes—swirl in a few tablespoons before baking for a delicious twist.

Final Thoughts
This Chocolate Espresso Banana Bread is the kind of treat that satisfies your sweet tooth while still feeling a little wholesome. It’s moist, flavorful, and easy to make, with that rich espresso-chocolate flavor combo that keeps you coming back for more. Perfect for breakfast, snacking, or dessert—it’s a loaf worth baking on repeat.

Try it out and let me know what you think! Don’t forget to leave a review below and share your photos on Pinterest! I can’t wait to see your banana bread creations.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Baking Time: 55 minutes
Cuisine: American

Nutritional Information (Per Slice – 10 slices):
Calories: 280 | Protein: 4g | Carbohydrates: 36g | Fat: 13g | Fiber: 3g | Sodium: 180mg

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