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Bananas Turning Brown? Try This Easy Chocolate Banana Bread Recipe

By Ann Baisden, Publisher of Macaroni KID South Columbus, Ohio January 4, 2023

Honestly, my family can't seem to stick with a favorite fruit. One week... all of the apples disappear in 3 days, and the next week they sit untouched. And bananas are the same way.

But don't fret. For those days when the bananas sit on the counter for a little too long, it's just a good excuse to make chocolate banana bread! 


 Mabelin Santos via Canva

Chocolate banana bread will surely be a popular treat around the house. Bonus: This favorite recipe for chocolate banana bread is both egg and dairy-free.

Chocolate Banana Bread 

Ingredients:

  • 2-3 overripe bananas, mashed (about 2 cups)
  • 2 1/2 tsp. vanilla extract
  • 1 Tbsp. vinegar (white or cider will do)
  • 1/4 cup nondairy milk (almond, coconut, cashew, soy, etc.)
  • 2/3 cup maple syrup
  • 1 3/4 cup flour (you can use gluten-free flour)
  • 1/2 cup + 2 Tbsp. unsweetened cocoa powder 
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1 tsp. baking soda
  • 3/4 tsp. baking powder
  • 3/4 tsp. salt
  • 1/2 cup dairy-free mini chocolate chips (optional)

NoirChocolate via Canva

Directions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.
  2. In a medium bowl, mix together banana, vanilla extract, vinegar, milk, and maple syrup. Set aside.
  3. In a separate medium bowl, mix together flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
  4. Pour wet ingredients into dry, and mix until just combined. Spread into a loaf pan and smooth the top. If using chocolate chips, you can sprinkle them on top of the batter.
  5. Bake for 50 minutes without opening the oven door.
  6. Allow the bread to cool completely before cutting.
  7. Store in refrigerator. The leftovers are even better the next day!