Description
A moist and tender chocolate banana bread made with ripe bananas and rich cocoa, perfect for breakfast or dessert.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 large ripe bananas (about 1 1/2 cups mashed)
- 1/4 cup salted butter (melted and slightly cooled)
- 1/3 cup applesauce or cooking oil
- 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a 9-by-5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper, greasing it with nonstick spray.
- Whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl; set aside.
- Mash the bananas in a large bowl until smooth. Mix in the melted butter and applesauce (or oil).
- Stir in the brown sugar, egg, and vanilla until smooth.
- Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet mixture until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 50 minutes to 1 hour and 10 minutes, checking doneness with a toothpick.
- Once baked, let the bread cool in the pan for 30-45 minutes before transferring it to a wire cooling rack.
Notes
Use very ripe bananas for the best flavor. Consider adding chocolate chips or nuts for extra texture.