Chocolate Espresso Banana Bread

Moist, rich, and packed with bold flavor, this Chocolate Espresso Banana Bread is a next-level twist on the classic loaf. Ripe bananas and cocoa come together with espresso to create a deep, indulgent flavor profile that satisfies both chocolate and coffee lovers alike. Whether you enjoy it with your morning brew or as an after-dinner dessert, this banana bread is a bakery-worthy treat that’s simple to make at home.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Bold & Chocolatey – Cocoa and espresso intensify the chocolate flavor.
Extra Moist – Thanks to ripe bananas and sour cream.
Simple & Quick – Easy ingredients, no mixer needed.
Perfect Anytime – Breakfast, snack, or dessert approved.
Freezer Friendly – Make ahead and enjoy whenever you crave it.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Bread:

• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 tbsp instant espresso powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 3 large overripe bananas, mashed
• ½ cup brown sugar
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup vegetable oil or melted butter
• ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Optional Toppings:

• Extra chocolate chips
• Flaky sea salt
• Sliced banana or nuts for decoration

Tools You’ll Need
Mixing bowls
Whisk or spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
9×5-inch loaf pan
Parchment paper

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat & Prepare Pan
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease or line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, espresso powder, baking soda, and salt.
Set aside.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, combine mashed bananas, brown sugar, granulated sugar, eggs, oil, sour cream, and vanilla.
Whisk until smooth and well blended.

Step 4: Combine & Fold
Add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients.
Gently stir until just combined—don’t overmix.
Fold in the chocolate chips.

Step 5: Pour & Top
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
Sprinkle extra chocolate chips or a few banana slices on top, if desired.

Step 6: Bake
Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs.
If the top browns too quickly, tent with foil during the last 10–15 minutes.

Step 7: Cool & Slice
Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Tips for the Best Banana Bread
Use Very Ripe Bananas – The darker, the sweeter and more flavorful.
Don’t Overmix – Stir until just combined to keep the texture tender.
Enhance the Flavor – Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra depth.
Let It Cool – Slicing too soon can make it gummy inside.
Customize It – Add nuts, swap chocolate chips for chunks, or swirl in peanut butter.

Serving Suggestions
With Coffee – Espresso and chocolate are perfect coffee companions.
Toasted with Butter – A cozy and indulgent breakfast or snack.
With Whipped Cream or Ice Cream – For a more dessert-like treat.
As French Toast – Turn thick slices into a decadent brunch dish.
Wrapped as Gifts – Great for holidays or homemade hostess presents.

How to Store & Freeze

Storing:
Room Temp: Keep in an airtight container up to 4 days.
Refrigerate: For up to 6 days—reheat slices gently before serving.

Freezing:
Wrap loaf or individual slices in plastic wrap and foil.
Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature or reheat in toaster or oven.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I skip the espresso powder?
Yes, but it enhances the chocolate flavor. Use decaf espresso if preferred.

2. Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes—use half whole wheat and half all-purpose for best results.

3. What’s the best substitute for sour cream?
Plain Greek yogurt works great.

4. Can I make this into muffins?
Absolutely—bake in a lined muffin tin for 18–22 minutes.

5. Is this very sweet?
It’s moderately sweet. You can reduce the sugar slightly if you prefer.

Final Thoughts
Chocolate Espresso Banana Bread is everything you love about banana bread—elevated with bold chocolate and coffee notes. Moist, rich, and indulgent, it’s the kind of recipe you’ll make again and again for breakfast, dessert, or anytime you need a little sweet pick-me-up.

Bake a loaf today and enjoy your new favorite twist on a classic!

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 60 minutes
Cuisine: American / Bakery

Nutritional Information (Per Slice, 1 of 10):
Calories: 310 | Protein: 5g | Carbohydrates: 36g | Fat: 16g | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 20g | Sodium: 190mg

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