Are you ready for a treat that combines rich chocolate, creamy peanut butter, and ripe bananas? Welcome to my Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Bread! This easy recipe is perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a delicious snack. I’ll guide you step-by-step through the process, share tips, and show you how to make fun variations. Let’s dive into this sweet adventure together and create a loaf that will wow your taste buds!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
To make this chocolate peanut butter banana bread, you will need the following ingredients:
– 3 ripe bananas, well-mashed
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter (natural for a healthier option)
– 1/3 cup melted coconut oil (allow to cool slightly)
– 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
– 2 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
– 1 cup all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/2 cup chocolate chips (dark or semi-sweet for richness)
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch
Ingredient Substitutions
You can easily swap some ingredients for different flavors or diets:
– Use almond butter instead of peanut butter for a nut-free version.
– Replace coconut oil with vegetable oil if you prefer.
– For gluten-free bread, use almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend.
– You can substitute maple syrup for brown sugar for a unique taste.
Measuring Tips
Accurate measuring is key to great banana bread. Here are some tips:
– When measuring flour, spoon it into the cup and level with a knife. Do not pack it tightly.
– For brown sugar, pack it firmly into the measuring cup for the right amount.
– Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements, especially for flour and sugar.
– Always check that your bananas are fully ripe; they should have brown spots for the best flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat and Prepare the Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is key for even baking. While the oven heats, grab a 9×5 inch loaf pan. Lightly grease the pan or line it with parchment paper. This makes it easy to remove the bread later.
Mixing Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, add the well-mashed bananas. Next, scoop in the creamy peanut butter. Mix these two ingredients until the blend is smooth and creamy. Now, pour in the melted coconut oil. Stir well to combine, making sure there are no lumps left. Then, add the packed brown sugar. Mix until everything is well combined.
Crack in the two large eggs, adding them one at a time. Make sure to mix well after each egg. Finally, stir in the pure vanilla extract. The mixture should look light and fluffy at this point.
Combining Dry Ingredients and Mixing
In a separate bowl, sift together the baking soda, fine sea salt, all-purpose flour, and cocoa powder. Sifting helps remove lumps and ensures even mixing. Gradually fold this dry mix into the wet mixture. Be gentle; overmixing can make the bread dense. Stir just until combined, then carefully fold in the chocolate chips. If you like, add chopped nuts for extra texture. Now, your batter is ready to go!
Tips & Tricks
How to Avoid Dense Banana Bread
To keep your banana bread light, avoid overmixing the batter. When you add the dry mix to the wet mix, stir gently. It’s okay if there are a few lumps. If you mix too much, the bread can turn out heavy. Another tip is to use ripe bananas. Ripe bananas have more moisture and sweetness. The more speckles, the better!
Checking for Doneness
To check if your banana bread is done, use a toothpick. Insert it into the center of the bread. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s ready. If the toothpick has wet batter, bake it a bit longer. Keep an eye on the time, but also trust your senses. The bread should smell amazing and look golden brown.
Serving Suggestions
Banana bread tastes great warm or at room temperature. For a nice touch, slice it and add a dusting of powdered sugar on top. You can drizzle extra melted peanut butter over the slices for a treat. Fresh banana slices on the side make it even better. This bread is perfect for breakfast or as a snack. Enjoy each bite!

Variations
Adding Nuts and Other Mix-Ins
You can make your chocolate peanut butter banana bread even better by adding nuts. Chopped walnuts or pecans add a nice crunch. Use about 1/4 cup of nuts for a balanced texture. You can also try adding shredded coconut for extra flavor. If you love a fruity twist, mix in some dried fruit like cranberries or cherries. They add sweetness and chewiness to every bite.
Alternate Flours and Sweeteners
If you want a different flavor or texture, try using alternate flours. Whole wheat flour adds a nutty taste. Almond flour makes it gluten-free and rich. You can mix these with all-purpose flour for a lighter result. For sweeteners, consider using maple syrup or honey instead of brown sugar. They add a unique taste and can make the bread moister.
Vegan or Gluten-Free Adaptations
To make this bread vegan, swap the eggs for flax eggs. Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water. Let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens. For gluten-free options, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. This keeps the texture light while catering to dietary needs. Experiment with these variations to create your perfect chocolate peanut butter banana bread.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftover Banana Bread
To keep your banana bread fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. You can also place it in an airtight container. Store it at room temperature for up to three days. If you prefer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week. Just be aware that refrigeration can make the bread a bit denser.
Freezing Tips
If you have extra banana bread, freezing is a great option! Slice the bread into individual pieces. Wrap each slice in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. This helps prevent freezer burn. The banana bread can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it at room temperature or warm it in the oven.
Shelf Life and Reheating Instructions
The shelf life of banana bread varies. At room temperature, it lasts about three days. In the fridge, it can last a week. When reheating, you can use the oven or microwave. For the oven, preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10 minutes. In the microwave, heat for 15-20 seconds. Enjoy your warm, tasty treat!
FAQs
Can I use less sugar in this recipe?
Yes, you can use less sugar. You might try using 1/3 cup instead of 1/2 cup. This change will still keep your banana bread sweet. You can also add extra ripe bananas. They add natural sweetness. Just remember, less sugar may change the texture a bit.
What can I substitute for peanut butter?
If you want to change the peanut butter, try almond butter or sunflower seed butter. Both options work well and add a new taste. Ensure the substitutes are creamy for the best texture. Each option gives a unique flavor, so feel free to experiment!
How do I make this recipe healthier?
To make this banana bread healthier, use natural peanut butter and coconut oil. You can also reduce sugar, as mentioned before. Adding whole wheat flour boosts fiber content. You might even swap in applesauce for some of the oil. These changes can create a lighter, healthier treat.
This blog post covered all you need for great banana bread. We listed key ingredients and smart substitutions. You learned step-by-step instructions that make baking easy. I shared tips to avoid dense bread and how to check for doneness. We explored tasty variations and how to store leftovers. Now, you’re ready to bake delicious banana bread. Remember, practice makes perfect. Enjoy your baking journey!


