Indulgent Chocolate Chip Banana Nut Bread
Description:
This delightful chocolate chip banana nut bread is not just a mere quick bread; it’s a luscious dessert that tantalizes the taste buds with its rich chocolate flavor and sweet undertones, making it an ideal treat for any occasion. With a moisture-rich texture that is undeniably satisfying, this recipe has been thoughtfully adjusted to reduce the fat content without sacrificing the decadence that defines this beloved baked good. Whole eggs contribute to the richness, but if you’re looking to lighten it further, you can easily substitute with egg whites or Egg Beaters. The inclusion of peanut butter as a spread elevates the flavor profile even more, and if you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding peanut butter chips into the mix for a delightful twist. Versatile enough to accommodate your pantry staples, this bread can also swap out sour cream for yogurt and pecans for walnuts, all of which yield equally delicious results. This banana bread not only pleases the palate but also makes for a thoughtful homemade gift that friends and family will surely appreciate.
Recipe Category: Quick Breads
Keywords: Breads, Lunch/Snacks, Tropical Fruits, Fruit, Brunch, Oven, < 4 Hours
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 3211.6 |
| Total Fat | 125.7 g |
| Saturated Fat | 52.6 g |
| Cholesterol | 550.8 mg |
| Sodium | 1791.1 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 501.9 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 28 g |
| Sugars | 298.2 g |
| Protein | 50 g |
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Butter | 1/4 cup |
| Sugar | 1 cup |
| Eggs | 2 large |
| Ripe Bananas | 3 medium |
| Vanilla Extract | 1 1/2 tsp |
| All-Purpose Flour | 2 cups |
| Baking Soda | 1 tsp |
| Nonfat Sour Cream | 1/4 cup |
| Chopped Pecans | 1/2 cup |
| Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips | 1 cup |
Instructions
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Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your bread bakes evenly and achieves that perfect golden-brown crust.
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Prepare the Loaf Pan: Take a standard size loaf pan, approximately 9 inches by 5 inches, and prepare it by greasing it generously with butter or a non-stick cooking spray. This step is crucial as it prevents the bread from sticking to the pan, allowing for easy removal once baked.
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Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and sugar, then use an electric mixer or a sturdy wooden spoon to cream these ingredients together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the batter, contributing to the overall texture of the bread.
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Incorporate the Eggs and Bananas: Once your butter and sugar are creamed, add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition to ensure everything is well combined. Next, peel the ripe bananas and mash them in a separate bowl before stirring them into the mixture along with the vanilla extract. The bananas add natural sweetness and moisture to the bread.
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Mix in the Dry Ingredients: Gradually sift in the all-purpose flour and baking soda, taking care to mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a denser loaf, so be gentle. The addition of cocoa powder can give the bread an extra layer of flavor; if you wish to add it, now is the time.
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Add the Sour Cream, Chocolate Chips, and Nuts: Stir in the nonfat sour cream, which will enhance the moisture, and then gently fold in the chocolate chips and chopped pecans, saving a tablespoon of each to sprinkle on top before baking. This final touch not only looks appealing but also adds a delightful crunch to the crust.
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Transfer to the Loaf Pan: Pour the mixture into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula to ensure an even bake. Sprinkle the reserved chocolate chips and pecans on top for a decorative finish.
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Bake to Perfection: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 45 to 60 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, your bread is ready to come out of the oven.
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Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is vital to ensure that the bread holds its shape when sliced.
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Alternate Baking Method: If you prefer muffins, simply pour the batter into greased or lined muffin tins and bake for about 15 minutes. This recipe yields approximately 18 delightful muffins, perfect for sharing or enjoying throughout the week.
Enjoy Your Bread!
Once cool, slice your indulgent chocolate chip banana nut bread, and if desired, slather it with a layer of creamy peanut butter for an irresistible treat that will have everyone asking for more. Store any leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness, though it’s unlikely to last long with such an enticing flavor! Whether enjoyed as a breakfast treat, a snack, or a dessert, this banana bread is sure to impress and satisfy.
