The smell of warm banana bread with a hint of chocolate wafting through the kitchen is like a hug for your senses. Honestly, who can resist the sweet aroma of freshly baked goods? I first stumbled upon this Ultimate Nutella Banana Bread recipe during a late-night baking session when I had overripe bananas staring at me from my kitchen counter. With a jar of Nutella begging to be used and a craving for something cozy, this recipe was born. Each bite is a delightful mix of fluffy banana bread and rich chocolatey goodness that makes you feel like you’re indulging in a slice of heaven!
This recipe is not only a treat for your taste buds but also a source of comfort, perfect for lazy weekend mornings or a delightful afternoon snack. It’s ideal for families, friends, or just yourself when you need a little pick-me-up. Whether you’re someone who loves a chocolatey twist or just a fan of classic banana bread, this Nutella Banana Bread with Chocolate Chip Swirl will quickly become a favorite. Plus, it’s simple to whip up, making it the perfect dessert for any occasion!
So, gather your ingredients, and let’s dive into the deliciousness of this Ultimate Nutella Banana Bread!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Let me tell you why this Ultimate Nutella Banana Bread is a game-changer in the world of baked goods. I’ve made it countless times, and every time, it leaves my family and friends begging for more. Here are some standout reasons why you’ll love this recipe:
- Quick & Easy: It comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for busy mornings or last-minute cravings!
- Simple Ingredients: You likely have everything in your kitchen already, no fancy grocery trips needed!
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for brunch, potlucks, cozy dinners, or holiday gatherings!
- Crowd-Pleaser: This recipe gets rave reviews from both kids and adults alike—everyone loves it!
- Unbelievably Delicious: The combination of banana, Nutella, and chocolate chips creates a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist!
What makes this Nutella Banana Bread stand out from the rest? It’s all about that chocolate chip swirl, which adds a decadent layer of richness that you just don’t get with traditional banana bread. Plus, the technique of swirling in the Nutella creates an incredibly moist and flavorful loaf. Trust me; once you take a bite, you’ll be transported to a world of bliss!
This isn’t just good; it’s the kind of comfort food that makes you close your eyes in delight after the first bite. You’ll find it perfect for impressing guests without stress or turning a simple snack into a memorable treat. Grab your apron, and let’s bake something extraordinary!
Ingredients Needed
This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to create a deliciously moist banana bread with a rich chocolatey swirl. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed (the riper, the better for sweetness)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup Nutella (plus more for swirling)
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or dark)
These ingredients are pantry staples, making it easier than ever to whip up this delightful bread. I personally love using ripe bananas for the best flavor—don’t worry if they’re a little brown; that’s when they’re at their sweetest! For the Nutella, I recommend using the classic version—it gives the best flavor and texture. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking for an extra flavor boost!
Equipment Needed
Before we get baking, let’s gather the necessary equipment:
- 1 large mixing bowl
- 1 medium mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
- Rubber spatula
- 9×5 inch loaf pan
- Parchment paper (optional, for easy removal)
Don’t stress if you don’t have a loaf pan—any baking dish that’s similar in size will work. I’ve even used muffin tins for individual servings in a pinch! Just keep an eye on the baking time if you go that route.
Preparation Method
Now that we have everything ready, let’s dive into the preparation!
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your loaf pan, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth. You can leave a few small chunks for texture if you like!
- Add the melted butter to the mashed bananas and mix until combined.
- Stir in the granulated sugar and brown sugar until fully incorporated.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the baking soda, salt, and flour.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!
- Gently fold in the chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
- Now, it’s time to swirl in the Nutella. Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan, then add dollops of Nutella on top. Use a knife or a skewer to swirl it in slightly.
- Add the remaining batter on top and repeat the Nutella dollops and swirling process.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
And there you have it! A beautifully baked loaf of Ultimate Nutella Banana Bread with Chocolate Chip Swirl. The aroma will fill your kitchen, and it’ll be hard to resist the temptation to slice into it right away!
Cooking Tips & Techniques
Here are some tried-and-true tips to ensure your banana bread turns out perfectly every time:
- Use Overripe Bananas: The riper your bananas, the sweeter your bread will be. Look for bananas with brown spots for the best flavor!
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to dense bread.
- Check for Doneness: Ovens can vary, so start checking for doneness a few minutes before the recommended baking time. A toothpick should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- Cool Completely: Allowing the bread to cool completely ensures it slices nicely and maintains its structure.
- Experiment with Add-Ins: Feel free to add nuts, dried fruit, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon for added flavor!
Over the years, I’ve learned that patience is key in baking! Trust the process, and don’t rush the cooling—allow those flavors to settle and develop!
Variations & Adaptations
This recipe is super versatile! Here are some ideas to customize your Ultimate Nutella Banana Bread:
- Nut-Free Version: Simply omit the Nutella and replace it with peanut butter or leave it out entirely for a classic banana bread!
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure it contains xanthan gum for proper texture!
- Add Fruits: Toss in some chopped nuts or berries for a fun twist. Walnuts or pecans would add a lovely crunch!
One of my favorite adaptations is adding a layer of cream cheese in the middle for an extra creamy surprise. Just mix the cream cheese with a bit of sugar and swirl it in with the Nutella!
Serving & Storage Suggestions
Once your bread has cooled, it’s time to enjoy! Here’s how to serve and store your delicious creation:
- Serving: Slice the banana bread warm or at room temperature. It’s delightful on its own or served with a dollop of whipped cream!
- Complementary Drinks: Pair it with a cup of coffee or a tall glass of cold milk for the ultimate treat!
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap the bread in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: To reheat, pop a slice in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or enjoy it cold—both options are delicious!
As the days pass, the flavors develop and deepen, making this banana bread a fantastic make-ahead option!
Nutritional Information & Benefits
This Ultimate Nutella Banana Bread not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also offers some nutritional benefits:
- Each slice contains potassium-rich bananas which are great for heart health.
- The addition of chocolate chips provides antioxidants, which can be a delightful treat in moderation.
- Using whole ingredients like eggs and butter contributes healthy fats and protein.
This recipe can also be made dairy-free by using plant-based butter and non-dairy chocolate chips. Just keep an eye out for allergens if you’re serving to guests!
Conclusion
In conclusion, this Ultimate Nutella Banana Bread with Chocolate Chip Swirl is a must-try recipe that’s sure to impress! It’s easy to make, deliciously moist, and bursting with flavors that everyone will love. I encourage you to customize it based on your preferences—add nuts, swap in different spreads, or even experiment with flavors. The possibilities are endless!
So, grab your ingredients and get baking! I’d love to hear how your banana bread turns out, so don’t forget to leave a comment or share your variations. Happy baking!
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?
Yes! Just thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before mashing.
2. How do I know when the banana bread is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
3. Can I add nuts to the banana bread?
Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans make a great addition!
4. How long does this banana bread last?
It lasts about 3 days at room temperature or up to 3 months in the freezer.
5. Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! Substitute eggs with flax eggs and use plant-based butter and chocolate chips.
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Ultimate Nutella Banana Bread Recipe: Easy Chocolate Chip Swirl
- Total Time: 1 hour 5-15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
This Ultimate Nutella Banana Bread is a delightful mix of fluffy banana bread and rich chocolatey goodness, perfect for cozy mornings or as a sweet snack. It’s simple to whip up and will quickly become a favorite for chocolate lovers and banana bread fans alike.
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup Nutella (plus more for swirling)
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or dark)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your loaf pan, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth. You can leave a few small chunks for texture if you like!
- Add the melted butter to the mashed bananas and mix until combined.
- Stir in the granulated sugar and brown sugar until fully incorporated.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the baking soda, salt, and flour.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!
- Gently fold in the chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
- Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan, then add dollops of Nutella on top. Use a knife or a skewer to swirl it in slightly.
- Add the remaining batter on top and repeat the Nutella dollops and swirling process.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
Use overripe bananas for the best flavor. Don’t overmix the batter to avoid dense bread.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 15
- Sodium: 150
- Fat: 8
- Saturated Fat: 4
- Carbohydrates: 30
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 3
Keywords: Nutella, banana bread, chocolate chip, dessert, baking