Last Updated: November 14, 2026

Calling all chocolate lovers! This chocolate banana bread is dedicated to you! Generously packed with chocolate chunks or chocolate chips and topped with a silky chocolate ganache, it is a chocolate lover’s dream.

As soon as I started slicing this bread, I knew I had a keeper. Its irresistible chocolate aroma and wonderfully moist texture had me hooked even before the first bite! The bananas aren’t particularly noticeable in flavor because the rich chocolate takes center stage, but they work their magic by keeping the bread deliciously moist without making it too dense.

I love the contrast of its slightly crunchy exterior and soft, moist interior. It is perfect alongside your morning coffee or afternoon tea, and honestly, it is delicious even without the ganache. But if you ask me, don’t skip it! The smooth, luscious chocolate ganache is the perfect finishing touch. Trust me, you’ll love every bite!

Tips for Making the Best Chocolate Banana Bread

For the best results, keep these simple tips in mind when making your chocolate banana bread:

How to check for doneness: When testing the bread for doneness, insert a toothpick or thin knife into several different spots, preferably avoiding visible chocolate chunks. You may accidentally hit a melted piece of chocolate, which can stick to the toothpick and make you think the bread is still underbaked. Look for moist crumbs rather than wet cake batter. Remember, melted chocolate is not the same as uncooked batter!

Use unsweetened cocoa powder: Make sure to use unsweetened cocoa powder, not instant hot chocolate powder or a sweetened chocolate drink mix. Unsweetened cocoa gives the bread its deep chocolate flavor without adding unnecessary sugar or changing the balance of the recipe.

Choose ripe bananas: For a naturally moist and flavorful banana bread, use ripe bananas with plenty of brown spots on their skins. They are sweeter, softer, and easier to mash, adding wonderful moisture and banana flavor to the chocolate batter.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chocolate Banana Bread

Can I make chocolate banana bread without chocolate ganache?

Absolutely! This chocolate banana bread is delicious on its own, even without the ganache. However, I highly recommend keeping the ganache because it adds another layer of chocolate richness and makes the bread extra special.

 Can I use chocolate chips instead of chocolate chunks?

Yes! You can use either chocolate chips or chopped chocolate. Both work beautifully in this recipe. Choose your favorite type of chocolate, depending on how rich you like your banana bread.

Does the quality of chocolate matter when making Chocolate Banana Bread?

Absolutely! Using good-quality chocolate makes a noticeable difference in the flavor and overall result. Since chocolate is the star ingredient, I recommend using good-quality cocoa powder and chocolate chunks or chips that you enjoy eating on their own. They will give the bread a deeper, richer chocolate flavor.

Can I use semisweet or milk chocolate chunks?

Of course! You can use semisweet chocolate chunks, milk chocolate chunks, or even a combination of both. Semisweet chocolate adds a deeper chocolate flavor with less sweetness, while milk chocolate gives the bread a sweeter, creamier touch. Feel free to mix the two for a delicious balance of flavors!

How do I store chocolate banana bread?

Once completely cooled, store the chocolate banana bread in an airtight container in the refrigerator, especially because of the chocolate ganache. Bring individual slices to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Can I freeze chocolate banana bread?

Yes! For best results, freeze the bread without the ganache. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature, then add freshly prepared chocolate ganache before serving.

More Delicious Banana Breads and Cakes to Try

If you love baking with ripe bananas and are looking for more delicious ways to use them, there are plenty of creative treats to try next. For a zero-waste twist on a classic loaf, check out my Whole Banana Bread with Banana Peels (Surprisingly Delicious!), or explore rich Middle Eastern flavors with a moist Banana and Date Bread with Tahini and Carob Molasses. If you are in the mood for something extra decadent, my Out of This World Banana Nutella Cake is guaranteed to satisfy your chocolate cravings, while a Swiss Roll with Nutella, Mascarpone and Bananas makes an elegant, creamy dessert for special occasions.

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Chocolate Banana Bread

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Prep: 20 minutes minutes

Cook: 1 hour hour 15 minutes minutes

Cooling & Ganache Time 30 minutes minutes

Servings 15 servings

Course

desserts

Cuisine

American

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Description

A wonderful way to use up ripe bananas, this chocolate-packed treat is easy to prepare and even better to share. The chocolate chunks melt into little pockets throughout the bread, while the ganache adds a beautiful finishing touch. Perfect for breakfast, afternoon tea, or whenever a chocolate craving strikes!

Ingredients

 

1x2x3x

• ▢ 3 cups flour
• ▢ 200 g 7 oz butter
• ▢ 3 eggs
• ▢ ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• ▢ 1 ½ cups sugar
• ▢ ⅔ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• ▢ 3 ripe bananas mashed
• ▢ ½ cup milk + 2 tablespoons white vinegar
• ▢ 3 teaspoons baking soda
• ▢ ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ▢ A pinch of salt
• ▢ 150 g 5 oz semisweet or milk chocolate chunks or chips (or a mix of both)

For the chocolate ganache:

• ▢ 100 g 3.5 oz semisweet chocolate
• ▢ ½ cup heavy cream
• ▢ 1 teaspoon butter

Instructions

 

• First, make sure all the ingredients are at room temperature.
• Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Position a rack in the center of the oven.
• Grease and flour a large cake pan with a 10-cup capacity.
• Combine the milk and white vinegar in a small bowl. Set aside.
• In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking powder, and baking soda.
• Using an electric mixer, beat the butter in a large mixing bowl on medium speed until creamy.
• Add the sugar, vanilla extract, and mashed bananas. Beat for about 20 seconds until combined.
• Add the eggs, one at a time, beating for about one minute after each addition. Add the milk mixture and beat for another 20 seconds.
• Gradually fold the flour mixture into the batter. Add the chocolate chunks or chips, scrape down the sides of the bowl, and gently stir with a wooden spoon until everything is well incorporated.
• Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and spread it evenly.
• Bake for approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. If you hit a melted chocolate chunk, test another spot to make sure the bread is fully baked.
• Remove from the oven and let cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Carefully invert onto a wire rack and allow to cool.

Prepare the Chocolate Ganache

• Place the chocolate, heavy cream, and butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Whisk gently until the chocolate melts and the mixture becomes smooth and glossy. Avoid letting it come to a rolling boil.
• Remove from the heat and let the ganache cool slightly until it reaches a pourable consistency. Drizzle evenly over the chocolate banana bread.

Keyword banana bread with chocolate ganache, chocolate banana bread, double chocolate banana bread

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