This Giada Chocolate Chip Banana Bread is a delicious combination of rich, bittersweet chocolate and naturally sweet bananas, resulting in a loaf that is both soothing and decadent.

It’s the kind of dish that comes together quickly and easily, making it ideal for a nice breakfast or a sweet treat at any time. With the inclusion of almond flour and toasted almond butter, this banana bread has a distinct, nutty taste.

More like Giada Blueberry-banana Bread or her Buttermilk Cornbread, this banana bread is sure to become a favorite in your home, whether you’re serving it for a holiday brunch or enjoying a slice with your afternoon coffee.

Why This Recipe Works

There’s something about the combination of chocolate and bananas that feels like pure comfort food. Adding bittersweet chocolate chips to classic banana bread takes it to a new level of indulgence.

This Giada Chocolate Chip Banana Bread strikes the perfect balance between rich, dark chocolate and the natural sweetness of ripe bananas.

The almond flour adds a tender, light crumb, while the almond butter brings a subtle nuttiness that complements the flavors beautifully. What makes this recipe stand out is its simplicity—no need for fancy ingredients or complicated steps, yet the result is a bakery-worthy loaf that’s perfect for any occasion.

Whether you’re serving it for brunch or enjoying a slice with your afternoon coffee, this banana bread is bound to become a favorite in your home.

Recipe Ingredients

• Bananas: Make sure to use very ripe bananas, as they’ll add natural sweetness and moisture to the bread. The riper, the better!
• Coconut Oil: Melted and cooled coconut oil helps to keep this banana bread moist and adds a subtle coconut flavor that complements the other ingredients perfectly.
• Almond Milk: Unsweetened almond milk is a great dairy-free option, keeping the bread light and adding a mild, nutty flavor.
• Coconut Sugar: This natural sweetener adds a hint of caramel flavor without being overly sweet, making it a healthier alternative to refined sugar.
• Almond Butter: Roasted almond butter not only adds richness but also boosts the nutty flavor of this banana bread. If you’re out of almond butter, peanut butter works as a tasty substitute.
• Almond Flour: This gluten-free flour adds a tender crumb and a slightly nutty taste. It also keeps the bread light and fluffy.
• Rice Flour: Used alongside almond flour, rice flour helps create a perfect texture, making the bread both soft and sturdy.
• Bittersweet Chocolate Chips: These add just the right amount of indulgence. You can swap them for dark chocolate or even dairy-free chocolate chips if preferred.
• Chopped Walnuts: Walnuts add a delightful crunch to each bite, but feel free to replace them with pecans or leave them out for a nut-free version.
• Ground Cinnamon: Just a hint of cinnamon brings warmth and depth to the flavor profile of this banana bread.

Note: For the full list of ingredients and detailed measurements, check out the recipe card below!

Step-by-Step Directions

Step One – Begin by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C) to preheat. Lightly coat a 10-by-5-inch loaf pan with coconut oil, then line it with parchment paper, leaving some extra paper over the edges to help lift the bread out later. Set the pan aside.

Step Two – In a large bowl, use a fork to thoroughly mash the bananas, leaving just a few small lumps for texture. This will help ensure your bread is moist and naturally sweet.

Step Three – Crack an egg into the mashed bananas and mix until the two are fully combined. This will create a smooth base for the bread.

Step Four – Add in the almond milk, coconut sugar, almond butter, melted coconut oil, vanilla extract, and kosher salt. Whisk these ingredients together until you have a smooth, well-blended mixture.

Step Five – Gradually incorporate the almond flour, rice flour, baking soda, and ground cinnamon into the wet mixture. Use a rubber spatula to fold the dry ingredients into the batter, mixing just until combined to avoid overmixing.

Step Six – Stir in the bittersweet chocolate chips, ensuring they’re evenly dispersed throughout the batter.

Step Seven – Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the chopped walnuts on top. Place the pan in the oven and bake for 1 hour and 5 minutes to 1 hour and 10 minutes, or until the bread is set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean.

Step Eight – Let the bread cool in the pan for about 30 minutes before removing it to a wire rack to cool completely. Store at room temperature for up to 4 days, or freeze for longer storage.

How to serve

• For a delightful breakfast or brunch, serve a warm slice of Giada Chocolate Chip Banana Bread with a smear of butter or a drizzle of honey. Pair it with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a frothy cappuccino to start your day on a sweet note.
• For a mid-afternoon treat, enjoy a slice with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon. It’s perfect alongside a glass of cold almond milk or a steaming mug of chai tea.
• If you’re hosting a gathering, consider serving this banana bread as a dessert. You can elevate it by toasting the slices and serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce. Add a sprinkle of chopped walnuts for extra crunch.
• For a cozy evening snack, warm up a slice and enjoy it with a side of fresh fruit like strawberries or blueberries. A cup of hot chocolate or herbal tea would make a comforting accompaniment.

Recipe FAQs and Variations

Check out More Giada Recipes:

• Giada De Laurentiis Caprese Frittata
• Giada Baked Blueberry French Toast Casserole
• Giada Baked Oatmeal