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Homemade Healthier Chocolate Banana Bread photo

Healthier Chocolate Banana Bread

This Healthier Chocolate Banana Bread is a guilt-free treat! Packed with chocolate and bananas, it’s moist, nutritious, and perfect for any time of day.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Breakfast, Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 10 ounces pitted dried prunes
  • 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 medium)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup whole-wheat pastry flour
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 cup dried banana chips (chopped coarsely)
  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Whisk
  • Rubber spatula
  • Loaf pan
  • Oven

Method
 

Baking Instructions
  1. Step 1: Prepare the Prunes - Start by soaking the pitted dried prunes in hot water for about 10-15 minutes until they are soft. Drain and then blend them in a food processor until smooth. This will create a rich prune puree that adds moisture to the bread.
  2. Step 2: Mash the Bananas - In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth. It’s okay if there are a few small lumps; they’ll add to the texture.
  3. Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients - Add the prune puree and the eggs to the mashed bananas. Whisk together until fully combined. This mixture will give your bread its moist texture.
  4. Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients - In another bowl, whisk together the whole-wheat pastry flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and ground cinnamon.
  5. Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures - Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense loaf.
  6. Step 6: Fold in Add-ins - Using a rubber spatula, fold in the chopped dried banana chips and semi-sweet chocolate chips. This adds delightful little bursts of flavor throughout the bread.
  7. Step 7: Prepare the Loaf Pan - Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your loaf pan with a bit of oil or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
  8. Step 8: Bake - Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for about 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  9. Step 9: Cool and Slice - Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Notes

  • Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
  • For longer storage, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to a week.
  • Freeze slices for up to 3 months; thaw at room temperature or warm in the microwave.