Banana bread has always been a family favorite. This Almond Chocolate Banana Bread takes it up a notch – sweet ripe bananas, rich chocolate, and crunchy almonds in every bite. It’s moist, easy to make, gluten-free, and perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a snack.
Why Banana Bread is Special
Banana bread has a long, rich history, loved in kitchens worldwide. The beauty of banana bread lies not just in its flavor but in its versatility. You can tweak the recipe based on what’s available in your pantry or to cater to dietary preferences.
Some might argue it’s one of the best ways to use overripe bananas, transforming them from neglected fruit to a delectable loaf. For this recipe, the combination of chocolate chips and hearty almonds takes it to another level, adding sweet and nutty notes that pair perfectly with the bananas’ flavor.
The idea of almond chocolate banana bread first hit me when I had some leftover chocolate chips and a bunch of sad-looking bananas. What started as a need to avoid waste transformed into a beloved staple in our house. Each slice tells a story of creativity and comfort, filled with the essence of home.
What to Expect in the Taste and Texture
Every bite of this banana bread is an experience – a moist texture surrounded by delightful chunks of chocolate and crunchy almond pieces. The aroma of banana and vanilla wafting through your home will make it impossible to resist.
Whether enjoyed warm from the oven or at room temperature, its sweet, rich flavor will keep you coming back for more. For those who crave variety, consider adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or even some dried fruit like cranberries or raisins. Each variation brings its unique flair and charm to the bread.
Almond Chocolate Banana Bread
Almonds and chocolate chips perfectly complement sweet ripe bananas creating a wonderfully moist banana bread. It is perfect for breakfast, dessert, or as a mid-day reward.
Ingredients
- 4 medium overripe bananas, peeled
- 1/4 cup almond milk
- 5 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose gluten-free flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup almonds, chopped
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line a standard 8 x 4 inch loaf pan with parchment paper to make removing the bread easier.
In a large bowl, mash your bananas with a fork until they achieve a chunky yet smooth consistency.
Add almond milk, vegetable oil, sugar and vanilla extract to the bananas.
Whisk everything together until fully combined.
Next, add the gluten-free flour, baking powder, and salt. Gently mix until the flour is just incorporated and the mixture is mostly smooth.
Using a spatula, gently fold in the chocolate chips and chopped almonds for a delightful texture in every slice.
Transfer the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 50-60 minutes or until the bread turns a deep golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean with just a few moist crumbs.
Allow the banana bread to cool in the pan on a wire rack for a minimum of 30 minutes. This step is crucial to ensure it holds together when it’s sliced.
Once cooled, slice up your delicious creation and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you have a loaf of almond chocolate banana bread, how can you enjoy it to the fullest? For an indulgent breakfast, serve it warm with a smear of almond butter or a dollop of Greek yogurt on top. A cup of steaming coffee pairs beautifully with the flavors in the banana bread. If you’re serving it for dessert, a drizzle of melted chocolate or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can elevate the experience to something divine!
Final Thoughts
With its motley of flavors and textures, this Almond Chocolate Banana Bread has become a family favorite, nourished with love and creativity. A simple yet hearty recipe brimming with health benefits, this banana bread allows you to satisfy your cravings without the guilt. It’s a wonderful way to turn overripe bananas into something truly special. Have you tried this recipe? I encourage you to give it a go and share your experience on Pinterest!