Description
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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Ingredients
For the Bread:
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1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
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¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
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1 tbsp instant espresso powder
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1 tsp baking soda
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½ tsp salt
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3 large overripe bananas, mashed
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½ cup brown sugar
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¼ cup granulated sugar
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2 large eggs
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½ cup vegetable oil or melted butter
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½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Optional Toppings:
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Extra chocolate chips
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Flaky sea salt
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Sliced banana or nuts for decoration
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.
Notes
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.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Cuisine: American / Bakery