Chocolate Orange Banana Bread

Name: Chocolate Orange Banana Bread
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 1 loaf
Ingredients: 3 ripe bananas, mashed; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 cup sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; Zest of 1 orange; 1/2 cup chocolate chips

Highlighted under: Home-Style Dessert Bakes

Delight in the luscious flavors of Chocolate Orange Banana Bread, a perfect fusion of rich chocolate, zesty orange, and ripe bananas.

Created by

Tina

Last updated on 2026-01-03T08:58:30.869Z

This Chocolate Orange Banana Bread is a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of ripe bananas with the richness of dark chocolate and the brightness of orange zest. It's perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or dessert!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh orange zest
Creamy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence

      

The Perfect Balance of Flavors

Chocolate Orange Banana Bread is a delightful treat that beautifully marries the richness of chocolate with the brightness of fresh orange zest. The bananas add natural sweetness and moisture, creating a loaf that is both indulgent and comforting. Each bite delivers a harmonious blend of flavors that awaken the senses, making it an irresistible choice for breakfast or dessert.

The addition of orange zest not only enhances the flavor profile but also adds a refreshing twist that cuts through the sweetness of the chocolate and bananas. This unique combination elevates traditional banana bread, transforming it into a gourmet experience that’s sure to impress family and friends.

A Versatile Treat for Any Occasion

This Chocolate Orange Banana Bread is perfect for any occasion, from casual family breakfasts to festive gatherings. Its rich flavors and inviting aroma make it a crowd-pleaser, ensuring that it will disappear quickly at parties and potlucks. Moreover, it's easy to slice and serve, making it a convenient option for brunch events or afternoon tea.

You can also customize this recipe to suit your preferences. Add nuts for a crunchy texture, or substitute the chocolate chips with dried fruit for a different flavor experience. No matter how you choose to prepare it, this banana bread is sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

After baking, allow your Chocolate Orange Banana Bread to cool completely before storing. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing individual slices; simply thaw them as needed for a quick snack or breakfast treat.

When serving, consider pairing your banana bread with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent dessert. A light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of chocolate ganache can also enhance its visual appeal and flavor, transforming it into an elegant dessert option.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients to create this delicious bread!

Ingredients

3 ripe bananas, mashed
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 cup sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
Zest of 1 orange
1/2 cup chocolate chips

Make sure to have all your ingredients ready for a smooth baking experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps to bake your Chocolate Orange Banana Bread.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the mashed bananas, melted butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix well.

Add Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, baking soda, salt, and flour. Gradually add this to the banana mixture, stirring until just combined.

Incorporate Orange Zest and Chocolate Chips

Fold in the orange zest and chocolate chips until evenly distributed.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!

Enjoy your delicious Chocolate Orange Banana Bread!

Why Use Ripe Bananas?

Ripe bananas are essential for achieving the best flavor and texture in this Chocolate Orange Banana Bread. As bananas ripen, their starches convert to sugars, resulting in a naturally sweet and moist loaf. The darker the banana's skin, the sweeter and more flavorful it will be, making it the ideal choice for baking.

Using overripe bananas not only enhances the bread's sweetness but also contributes to its tender crumb. If you have bananas on the counter that are past their prime, don’t throw them away—use them to create this delicious bread that everyone will adore.

Tips for Perfect Banana Bread

To ensure your Chocolate Orange Banana Bread bakes evenly, make sure to mix the wet and dry ingredients separately before combining them. Avoid overmixing the batter; stir just until the ingredients are incorporated to keep the bread light and fluffy.

Additionally, check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, your bread is ready. Keep an eye on it towards the end of the baking time to prevent over-baking, which can dry out the loaf.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas?

Yes, thaw and drain any excess liquid before mashing.

→ How do I store leftover banana bread?

Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Can I add nuts to this recipe?

Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans would be a great addition.

→ Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.