Description
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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Ingredients
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1 ½ cups 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 tbsp instant espresso powder (or ¼ cup brewed espresso, cooled)
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3 large ripe bananas, mashed
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½ cup light brown sugar, packed
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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 coconut oil)
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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½ cup mini chocolate chips or chunks (plus more for topping)
Optional Add-ins:
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½ tsp ground cinnamon
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Chopped walnuts or pecans
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Shaved dark chocolate on top
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Pan and Oven
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan or line with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
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In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, salt, and espresso powder.
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If using cinnamon or chopped nuts, mix them in now.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
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In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth.
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Whisk in brown sugar, granulated sugar, eggs, oil, and vanilla extract until fully combined.
Step 4: Make the Batter
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Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients.
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Fold gently until just combined—don’t overmix.
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Fold in the chocolate chips or chunks.
Step 5: Bake the Bread
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Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
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Sprinkle extra chocolate chips or shaved dark chocolate on top for a gooey finish.
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Bake for 50–60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
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Let the bread cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
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.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cuisine: American