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small-batch banana bread with chocolate chips - featured image

The Best Small-Batch Banana Bread with Chocolate Chips


  • Author: Sarah Wasserman
  • Total Time: 45-50 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

This small-batch banana bread with chocolate chips is designed for a single overripe banana, delivering a perfectly crackly crust and tender, moist interior in under an hour. It’s the ideal solution for small households or anyone craving a quick, no-waste treat.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 very ripe banana (about 120g)
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter (57g), melted
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar (67g)
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2/3 cup all-purpose flour (83g)
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/3 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (60g)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a mini loaf pan (5.5 x 3 inches) with butter or non-stick spray, then line with a strip of parchment paper that hangs over the two long sides.
  2. In a medium mixing bowl, mash the banana with a fork until mostly smooth with a few small lumps.
  3. Add the melted butter (cooled slightly), granulated sugar, egg, and vanilla extract to the mashed banana. Whisk until well combined and smooth.
  4. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
  5. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Fold gently with a rubber spatula until just combined—do not overmix. A few small lumps are fine.
  6. Fold in the chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
  7. Scrape the batter into the prepared mini loaf pan and spread evenly.
  8. Bake for 35-40 minutes, until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
  9. Cool in the pan on a cooling rack for 10 minutes.
  10. Use the parchment paper handles to lift the loaf out of the pan. Transfer to the cooling rack and cool completely before slicing.

Notes

Use a very ripe banana for best flavor and moisture. Do not overmix the batter to avoid tough bread. For a dairy-free version, substitute melted coconut oil or vegan butter. For gluten-free, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. To prevent chocolate chips from sinking, toss them in a teaspoon of flour before folding into the batter.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice (1/4 of loaf
  • Calories: 290
  • Sugar: 22
  • Sodium: 220
  • Fat: 14
  • Saturated Fat: 8
  • Carbohydrates: 38
  • Fiber: 2
  • Protein: 4

Keywords: small-batch banana bread, banana bread with chocolate chips, single banana recipe, mini loaf, easy banana bread, one banana bread