Chocolate Banana Bread

Ingredients:

• Wet Ingredients:
  • 3 ripe bananas, mashed
  • 1/2 cup melted butter or vegetable oil
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Dry Ingredients:
  • 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup cocoa powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
• Mix-Ins (Optional):
  • 1/2 cup chocolate chips
  • 1/4 cup chopped nuts (e.g., walnuts or pecans)

Instructions:

1. Preheat and Prepare:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients:
   • In a large mixing bowl, mash the bananas until smooth.
   • Stir in melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients:
   • In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, salt, granulated sugar, and brown sugar.
4. Combine Wet and Dry:
   • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined (do not overmix).
   • If desired, fold in chocolate chips and nuts.
5. Pour and Bake:
   • Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
   • Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Cool:
   • Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Serving Suggestions:

• Enjoy a slice on its own or with a smear of butter or cream cheese.
• For extra indulgence, drizzle with melted chocolate or a dusting of powdered sugar.

This chocolate banana bread is perfect for breakfast, dessert, or as a snack with a cup of coffee or tea. Let me know if you’d like further customization ideas!