Chocolate Banana Chocolate Chip Cake

Indulging in a slice of Chocolate Banana Chocolate Chip Cake is like wrapping yourself in a warm blanket of comfort. This cake is not just a treat for the eyes; it’s a delightful blend of rich chocolate and sweet bananas that come together in perfect harmony. With its moist crumb, gooey chocolate chips, and a hint of nuttiness from hazelnuts, this cake is sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, this recipe delivers an irresistible dessert that everyone will love.

Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation

Chocolate Banana Chocolate Chip Cake is a versatile dessert that fits into many occasions. It’s perfect for birthdays, casual get-togethers, or even just a cozy night at home. The combination of chocolate and bananas creates a flavor profile that is both familiar and exciting. Plus, the use of ripe bananas means you can turn overripe fruit into something delicious rather than tossing it out. This cake is not only delicious but also a fantastic way to reduce waste and make the most of your ingredients.

Ingredient Breakdown

To create this delectable Chocolate Banana Chocolate Chip Cake, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 large very ripe bananas, mashed – The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your cake will be.
• 1 cup light brown sugar (1 cup minus 1 tablespoon) – Adds moisture and a rich, caramel-like flavor.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla – Enhances the overall flavor of the cake.
• 1 egg – Acts as a binder and helps with the cake’s structure.
• 1/3 cup vegetable oil – Keeps the cake moist and tender.
• 1/3 cup buttermilk – Adds richness and helps to tenderize the cake.
• 1/2 cup Dutch process cocoa powder – Provides a deep chocolate flavor.
• 1 cup all-purpose flour (1 cup minus 1 tablespoon) – The base of your cake.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda – Helps the cake rise and become fluffy.
• 1 pinch of salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances flavors.
• 2/3 cup milk chocolate pieces (from a good chocolate bar!) – Melts beautifully and adds rich chocolatey goodness.
• 1/3 cup chopped hazelnuts – Adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.

Setup & Equipment

Before you dive into baking, make sure you have the following tools ready:

• Mixing bowls – For combining your ingredients.
• Whisk – To mix the wet ingredients smoothly.
• Measuring cups and spoons – For accurate ingredient measurements.
• Rubber spatula – For folding in the chocolate and nuts.
• Baking pan (9-inch round or square) – Where your cake will bake to perfection.
• Oven – To create that warm, delicious cake.

Cook Chocolate Banana Chocolate Chip Cake Like This

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cake bakes evenly and rises beautifully.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan

Grease your baking pan with a bit of oil or butter, and line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, light brown sugar, vanilla, egg, vegetable oil, and buttermilk. Use a whisk to blend everything together until smooth and well incorporated.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, sift together the Dutch process cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, baking soda, and a pinch of salt. This step helps to eliminate lumps and evenly distribute the baking soda.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently with a rubber spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine.

Step 6: Fold in Chocolate and Hazelnuts

Gently fold in the milk chocolate pieces and chopped hazelnuts until evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 7: Pour into the Pan

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with your spatula.

Step 8: Bake the Cake

Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 9: Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve as is, or dress it up with your favorite frosting or a scoop of ice cream!

Make It Fit Your Plan

This Chocolate Banana Chocolate Chip Cake is adaptable to various dietary preferences and needs. Consider the following options:

• For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.
• Use dairy-free alternatives for buttermilk, such as almond milk or coconut milk, paired with a splash of vinegar.
• For a lower-sugar cake, reduce the amount of brown sugar or use a sugar substitute.
• Try swapping out the hazelnuts for another nut or seed if allergies are a concern.

Notes from the Test Kitchen

When testing this recipe, we found that the ripeness of the bananas significantly affects the flavor and moisture of the cake. The darker the bananas, the more intense the sweetness, so don’t be shy about using those overly ripe ones!

• Be sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results.
• For an extra chocolatey kick, consider adding a chocolate ganache topping.
• If you want to add a fruity twist, try incorporating blueberries or raspberries into the batter.

Meal Prep & Storage Notes

This Chocolate Banana Chocolate Chip Cake is perfect for meal prep and can be stored for later enjoyment.

• Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• If you want to store it for longer, refrigerate it for up to a week.
• This cake also freezes well; wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

Your Questions, Answered

Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?

Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before mashing and adding them to the batter.

What can I substitute for buttermilk?

You can make a quick substitute by mixing 1/3 cup of milk with 1 teaspoon of vinegar or lemon juice and letting it sit for about 5 minutes.

Can I make this cake in advance for a party?

Absolutely! This cake stays moist for several days, making it perfect for preparing in advance. Just store it properly!

What frosting pairs well with this cake?

A simple cream cheese frosting or a rich chocolate ganache would complement the flavors beautifully.

Quick Weeknight Wins

• Sally’s Baking Addiction – Check out her amazing dessert recipes.
• Pinch of Yum – A treasure trove of delicious and easy-to-make meals.
• Minimalist Baker – Perfect for quick and simple recipes.
• Bakerella – For sweet treats that will impress your friends and family.

Final Bite

The Chocolate Banana Chocolate Chip Cake is a celebration of flavors and textures that truly satisfies. With its soft, moist crumb and delectable chocolate notes, it’s a cake that brings joy to any occasion. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or enjoying a quiet moment with a slice and a cup of coffee, this cake is sure to become a go-to favorite in your baking rotation. So gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and let the aroma of chocolate and bananas fill your kitchen. Happy baking!