Description
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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Ingredients
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
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat & Prepare Pan
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
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In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, espresso powder, baking soda, and salt.
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Set aside.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
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In another bowl, mash the bananas.
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Stir in the melted butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and Greek yogurt. Mix until smooth.
Step 4: Make the Batter
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Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir just until combined.
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Fold in the chocolate chips and any add-ins like nuts.
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Do not overmix—just enough to incorporate everything.
Step 5: Bake the Bread
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Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
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Sprinkle extra chocolate chips or chopped nuts on top if desired.
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Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs.
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Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
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.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Cuisine: American