Ingredients

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

1 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 cup butter, softened

1/4 cup brown sugar, packed

1/2 cup granulated sugar

2 eggs

1 1/3 cups mashed bananas (about 4 small bananas)

1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

1/4 cup half and half

2 tablespoons brown sugar, packed (for topping)

1 teaspoon butter (for topping)

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (for topping)

1/3 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (for topping)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan generously with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and baking powder. Set this dry mixture aside for now.

Step 3: In a separate medium bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened butter with the brown sugar and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.

Step 4: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then mix in the mashed bananas until fully combined.

Step 5: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Fold in the 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips carefully to distribute evenly.

Step 6: Transfer the batter to the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50 to 60 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with only a few moist crumbs.

Step 7: Remove the bread from the oven and set aside to cool while you prepare the topping.

Step 8: For the topping, heat half and half and 2 tablespoons of brown sugar in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir often until the sugar dissolves and the mixture bubbles gently around the edges.

Step 9: Remove the saucepan from heat, then stir in the butter and vanilla extract until combined. Add the 1/3 cup chocolate chips and whisk until the chocolate melts fully into a smooth glaze.

Step 10: Pour the glaze into a small bowl and let it cool completely. Once cooled, drizzle the chocolate glaze over the top of the banana bread before serving.

Tips & Variations

Use very ripe bananas for the best natural sweetness and moisture.

For added texture, try folding in chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans along with the chocolate chips.

If you prefer, substitute half and half in the topping with heavy cream for a richer glaze.

To reduce sugar, you can cut back slightly on the sugars in the batter without sacrificing much flavor.

FAQs

Can I use regular milk instead of half and half for the glaze?

Yes, you can substitute regular milk, but the glaze will be thinner and less rich. For a thicker glaze, half and half or cream is preferred.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, use dairy-free butter and substitute half and half with a plant-based milk like coconut or almond milk. Choose dairy-free chocolate chips to keep it fully dairy-free.