Name: Healthy Chocolate Banana Bread
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 overripe bananas, mashed; 2 eggs; 1/4 cup maple syrup or honey; 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 1/2 cups oat flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (plus extra for topping)

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Moist, rich, and irresistibly chocolatey, this healthy chocolate banana bread is a wholesome twist on a classic favorite. Made with overripe bananas, natural sweeteners, and oat flour, it’s perfect for a clean-eating lifestyle without sacrificing flavor. Whether I serve it as a breakfast option or a guilt-free dessert, it always satisfies my chocolate cravings in the best way.

Healthy Chocolate Banana Bread

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

3 overripe bananas, mashed

2 eggs

¼ cup maple syrup or honey

½ cup unsweetened applesauce

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder

1 ½ cups oat flour

1 teaspoon baking soda

½ teaspoon baking powder

¼ teaspoon salt

½ cup dark chocolate chips (plus extra for topping)

Directions

I preheat my oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a loaf pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

In a large bowl, I mash the bananas until smooth, then whisk in the eggs, maple syrup (or honey), applesauce, and vanilla extract until well blended.

I stir in the cocoa powder, oat flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt just until the batter is combined—avoiding overmixing.

Next, I fold in the chocolate chips.

I pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and sprinkle extra chocolate chips on top for added indulgence.

I bake it for 40–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs.

After baking, I let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 10 slices and takes approximately 55 minutes from start to finish. Prep time is just 10 minutes, and bake time is around 45 minutes. Each slice contains roughly 165 kcal, making it a light yet satisfying treat.

Variations

I sometimes swap the dark chocolate chips for chopped walnuts or pecans for a nutty crunch.

For a double banana flavor, I add a few banana slices on top before baking.

When I want a vegan version, I use flax eggs and plant-based chocolate chips.

I’ve also added a pinch of cinnamon or espresso powder to deepen the chocolate flavor even more.

Storage/Reheating

I store the banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for up to a week. To freeze, I wrap individual slices and keep them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. When I want a slice, I reheat it in the microwave for 20–30 seconds or toast it lightly for a warm, melty bite.

FAQs

Can I use regular flour instead of oat flour?

Yes, I’ve used whole wheat flour as a substitute, but it changes the texture slightly. Oat flour keeps it lighter and naturally gluten-free.

What can I use instead of applesauce?

If I don’t have applesauce, I replace it with plain Greek yogurt or mashed avocado, though the flavor and texture might shift a bit.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely. I use flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flax + 3 tablespoons water per egg) and vegan chocolate chips to make it plant-based.

How do I know when the bread is done?

I insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out with just a few moist crumbs and no wet batter, it’s ready. Overbaking can dry it out, so I check it around the 40-minute mark.

Can I add protein powder?

Yes, I’ve added a scoop of chocolate or vanilla protein powder in place of ¼ cup of oat flour. It gives an extra boost without compromising the texture too much.

Conclusion

This healthy chocolate banana bread proves that nutritious and delicious can go hand in hand. With its rich chocolate flavor, natural sweetness, and wholesome ingredients, it’s a go-to recipe I keep coming back to. Whether I enjoy it fresh from the oven or straight from the fridge, it always hits the spot—perfect for breakfast, snacks, or anytime I crave a chocolatey treat without the guilt.

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Healthy Chocolate Banana Bread

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Author: Cheryl
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 10 slices
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

Moist, rich, and irresistibly chocolatey, this healthy chocolate banana bread is made with wholesome ingredients like oat flour, overripe bananas, and natural sweeteners. It's perfect for clean eating while still satisfying your sweet tooth.

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a loaf pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
In a large bowl, mash the bananas until smooth.
Whisk in the eggs, maple syrup (or honey), applesauce, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Stir in the cocoa powder, oat flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt until just combined. Do not overmix.
Fold in the chocolate chips.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and sprinkle extra chocolate chips on top.
Bake for 40–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs.
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.