Description
Looking for a rich, indulgent twist on classic banana bread? This Chocolate Espresso Banana Bread is the ultimate upgrade! With deep cocoa flavor, a hint of bold espresso, and the natural sweetness of ripe bananas, this loaf is soft, moist, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re starting your morning or enjoying a midday pick-me-up, this banana bread delivers pure comfort with a touch of sophistication.
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Ingredients
For the Banana Bread:
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3 ripe bananas (about 1½ cups mashed)
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½ cup brown sugar (packed)
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¼ cup granulated sugar
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½ cup unsalted butter, melted
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2 large eggs
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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1 tbsp instant espresso powder (or strong brewed coffee, reduced to 1 tbsp)
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1 cup all-purpose flour
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½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
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1 tsp baking soda
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¼ tsp salt
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½ cup chocolate chips or chunks (semi-sweet or dark)
Optional Toppings:
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Extra banana slices for the top
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A handful of chocolate chips
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Pinch of flaky sea salt
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
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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 it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Mash the Bananas
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In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas using a fork or potato masher until smooth with a few small lumps.
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Measure to ensure you have about 1½ cups of banana puree.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
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Add the brown sugar, granulated sugar, and melted butter to the bananas.
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Stir until fully combined.
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Mix in the eggs, vanilla extract, and espresso powder until smooth and well blended.
Step 4: Add the Dry Ingredients
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Sift in the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt directly into the wet mixture.
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Gently fold with a spatula until no streaks remain.
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Stir in the chocolate chips or chunks.
Step 5: Bake the Banana Bread
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Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
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If using, top with banana slices and a sprinkle of chocolate chips or sea salt.
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Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
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Check at the 50-minute mark and loosely cover with foil if the top is browning too quickly.
Step 6: Cool and Slice
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Let the banana bread cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes.
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Transfer to a wire rack and allow to cool completely before slicing.
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For clean slices, use a sharp serrated knife.
Notes
Use Ripe Bananas – The riper, the better. Brown spots mean extra sweetness.
Don’t Overmix – Stir gently to keep the texture light and tender.
Enhance the Coffee Flavor – Add a second tablespoon of espresso powder for a deeper flavor.
Test Doneness – Ovens vary, so check with a toothpick in the center before removing.
Cool Before Slicing – It’s tempting to cut it hot, but cooling gives it structure and flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Cuisine: American