Chocolate Banana Bread – Moist, Rich, and Naturally Sweetened

This Chocolate Banana Bread is the perfect blend of wholesome and indulgent. Ripe bananas lend natural sweetness and moisture, while cocoa powder and chocolate chips create a deep, rich flavor in every bite. Made with lightened-up ingredients and easy to prepare, this is your go-to loaf for breakfast, snacking, or a better-for-you dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Banana-Rich and Moist – Overripe bananas ensure a tender, flavorful loaf.
Double Chocolate Delight – Cocoa and chocolate chips give a rich, dessert-like twist.
Healthier Ingredients – Made with smart swaps like yogurt and whole wheat flour.
Perfect for Prep – Make ahead and enjoy all week—great for freezing, too!

Ingredients

• 3 medium ripe bananas, mashed
• 1 large egg
• ¼ cup plain nonfat Greek yogurt
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tbsp maple syrup or sugar-free sweetener
• ¾ cup whole wheat flour
• ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp baking powder
• ¼ tsp salt
• ¼ cup mini chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.

2. Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together mashed bananas, egg, yogurt, vanilla, and maple syrup until smooth.

3. Add Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Fold in chocolate chips if using.

4. Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread evenly. Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

5. Cool and Slice
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Nutritional Information (Per Slice)

Calories: 130
Protein: 4g
Fat: 3.5g
Carbohydrates: 21g
Sugar: 8g
Fiber: 3g

Tips for Success

• Use Very Ripe Bananas – The darker and spottier, the better for sweetness and moisture.
• Customize It – Add chopped nuts, skip the chocolate chips, or swirl in a spoon of nut butter.
• Store Smart – Keep in an airtight container for 3–4 days or freeze individual slices.
• Make It Muffins – Pour into muffin tins and bake for 18–22 minutes for quick grab-and-go treats.

Why This Recipe Works

By using naturally sweet bananas, nonfat yogurt, and a balance of whole wheat flour and cocoa, this chocolate banana bread brings you a satisfying, chocolatey treat without weighing you down. It’s a smart choice that doesn’t sacrifice flavor.

This Chocolate Banana Bread is proof that wholesome can be indulgent. With its rich chocolate flavor, moist texture, and better-for-you ingredients, it’s the kind of recipe you’ll turn to again and again—for breakfast, dessert, or anytime in between.