Chocolate Banana Bread with Nuts and Chocolate Drizzle

Chocolate Banana Bread with Nuts and Chocolate Drizzle

Ingredients:

• 3 ripe bananas (mashed)
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil or melted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar
• 1/4 cup (50g) white sugar
• 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup (50g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (90g) chocolate chips (optional, for the batter)
• 1/3 cup chopped walnuts (for topping)
• 1/4 cup melted chocolate (for drizzle)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven:
   Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. Mix the wet ingredients:
   • In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas.
   • Add the eggs, oil (or melted butter), vanilla extract, brown sugar, and white sugar. Mix until smooth.
3. Prepare the dry ingredients:
   • In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
4. Combine the batter:
   • Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir until just combined (do not overmix).
   • If using, fold in the chocolate chips.
5. Bake the banana bread:
   • Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
   • Sprinkle the chopped walnuts evenly on top.
   • Bake for 45–50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Cool and drizzle:
   • Allow the banana bread to cool for 10–15 minutes in the pan, then transfer it to a wire rack.
   • Melt the chocolate and drizzle it generously over the cooled loaf.
7. Serve:
   • Slice and enjoy! Perfect with a cup of coffee or tea.

Tips:

• Use very ripe bananas for extra sweetness and moisture.
• Customize with pecans, almonds, or extra chocolate chips.
• For a richer chocolate flavor, add 2 tablespoons of melted dark chocolate to the batter.

This recipe makes a moist, decadent loaf with just the right balance of banana and chocolate flavors!