Chocolate Espresso Banana Bread

Rich, moist, and packed with deep chocolate flavor and a subtle coffee kick, this Chocolate Espresso Banana Bread is the ultimate twist on a classic. Overripe bananas, cocoa, and espresso powder combine for a soft, indulgent loaf that’s perfect for breakfast, snack time, or dessert. Whether served warm with coffee or chilled for a late-night treat, it’s a bakery-style banana bread you’ll want to bake on repeat.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Deep Chocolate Flavor – Cocoa and espresso enhance each other for a bold, rich taste.
Super Moist Texture – Ripe bananas, yogurt, and just the right amount of fat create a tender crumb.
Easy One-Bowl Recipe – Minimal cleanup and maximum reward.
Versatile Treat – Great for brunch, dessert, or even gifting.
Freezer-Friendly – Make ahead and enjoy anytime.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Banana Bread:
1¾ cups all-purpose flour
⅓ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 tbsp espresso powder (or instant coffee)
1 tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
3 very ripe bananas, mashed (about 1¼ cups)
½ cup melted unsalted butter (or neutral oil)
½ cup brown sugar
¼ cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
½ cup semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips (plus extra for topping)

Optional Add-ins:
¼ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
Pinch of cinnamon
Sprinkle of sea salt on top

Tools You’ll Need
Mixing bowl
Whisk or spatula
9×5-inch loaf pan
Parchment paper
Cooling rack
Toothpick for doneness check

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat & Prepare Pan

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, espresso powder, baking soda, and salt.
2. Set aside.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

1. In another bowl, mash the bananas.
2. Stir in the melted butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and Greek yogurt. Mix until smooth.

Step 4: Make the Batter

1. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir just until combined.
2. Fold in the chocolate chips and any add-ins like nuts.
3. Do not overmix—just enough to incorporate everything.

Step 5: Bake the Bread

1. Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
2. Sprinkle extra chocolate chips or chopped nuts on top if desired.
3. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs.
4. Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips for the Best Chocolate Espresso Banana Bread
Use Very Ripe Bananas – The darker and spottier, the better for sweetness and moisture.
Don’t Skip the Espresso – It boosts the chocolate flavor without overwhelming the banana.
Let It Cool – The flavor deepens and texture improves as it cools.
Customize It – Add nuts, swirl in peanut butter, or top with a chocolate glaze.
Freeze for Later – Slice and wrap individually for quick snacks on the go.

Serving Suggestions
Serve warm with butter, peanut butter, or chocolate spread.
Pair with your favorite coffee or latte for a cozy treat.
Slice and toast lightly for a breakfast twist.
Top with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for dessert.

How to Store & Freeze

Storing:
Wrap the cooled loaf tightly and store at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to 1 week.

Freezing:
Wrap whole or sliced banana bread in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or reheat slices in the toaster oven.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this gluten-free?
   Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. The texture may vary slightly but still delicious.
2. What if I don’t have espresso powder?
   You can use instant coffee granules or simply leave it out for classic chocolate banana bread.
3. Can I make this into muffins?
   Absolutely! Divide batter into a lined muffin tin and bake at 350°F for 18–22 minutes.
4. Is this overly sweet?
   Not at all—it’s rich and balanced. You can reduce the sugar slightly if using very ripe bananas.
5. Can I make it dairy-free?
   Yes! Use plant-based butter and yogurt substitutes.

Final Thoughts
This Chocolate Espresso Banana Bread is rich, moist, and deeply satisfying—perfect for coffee lovers and chocolate fans alike. It’s simple enough for everyday baking, yet special enough to share at brunch or gift to friends. Bold, comforting, and loaded with flavor, this loaf is guaranteed to earn a permanent spot in your baking rotation.

Try it today and share your version—tag your banana bread pics online so we can all drool together!

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 55 minutes
Cuisine: American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 290 | Protein: 5g | Carbohydrates: 34g | Fat: 14g | Fiber: 3g | Sodium: 210mg

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