If you’re looking for the perfect way to use overripe bananas, Ina Garten’s Chocolate Chip Banana Bread is a no-fail solution. It combines the comforting taste of banana bread with sweet bursts of chocolate in every bite. Moist, fluffy, and loaded with flavor, this banana bread makes a perfect breakfast, snack, or dessert.

What is Ina Garten Chocolate Chip Banana Bread?

Ina Garten’s version of banana bread is a moist, bakery-style loaf made with mashed bananas, semisweet chocolate chips, and a buttery batter. It’s slightly sweet, subtly spiced, and finished with a golden-brown crust. The combination of ripe bananas and rich chocolate makes this bread a cozy, crowd-pleasing treat for any time of day.

Ina Garten Banana Bread With Chocolate Chip

Other Popular Ina Garten Recipes

Reasons to Try Ina Garten’s Banana Bread With Chocolate Chip

Perfect use for overripe bananas – No food waste
Soft, moist texture – Thanks to bananas and butter
Studded with chocolate chips – Sweet surprise in every bite
Easy to make – Simple ingredients, no mixer required
Freezer-friendly – Great to make ahead
Versatile treat – Enjoy for breakfast, brunch, or dessert
Crowd-pleasing – Loved by kids and adults alike

Ingredients Needed to Make Ina Garten Chocolate Chip Banana Bread

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
½ cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
¾ cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
½ cup sour cream
3 ripe bananas, mashed (about 1¼ cups)
1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
Optional: ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans

Instructions to Prepare Ina Garten Chocolate Chip Banana Bread

Preheat the oven

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Mix the dry ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon (if using). Set aside.

Cream butter and sugar

In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar together using a hand whisk or spatula until light and fluffy.

Add eggs and vanilla

Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.

Stir in bananas and sour cream

Add the mashed bananas and sour cream to the wet mixture. Stir gently until combined.

Combine wet and dry ingredients

Add the dry mixture to the wet mixture and fold until just incorporated. Do not overmix.

Add chocolate chips (and nuts if using)

Fold in the chocolate chips and nuts evenly throughout the batter.

Pour and bake

Transfer the batter to the prepared loaf pan. Smooth the top and bake for 55–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and serve

Let the banana bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy.

What Goes Well With Ina Garten Chocolate Chip Banana Bread

Serve with a pat of butter – Melts into the warm slice
Pair with a cup of coffee or tea – A classic combo
Add fresh berries on the side – Balances the sweetness
Drizzle with honey or maple syrup – For an extra indulgent bite
Top with whipped cream or cream cheese – Turns it into a dessert
Use as a base for French toast – A creative breakfast idea
Serve with vanilla ice cream – Makes a fantastic dessert

Key Tips for Making Ina Garten Chocolate Chip Banana Bread

Use overripe bananas – The darker, the better for flavor and moisture
Don’t overmix the batter – It can make the bread tough
Measure flour accurately – Spoon and level for best results
Use sour cream or Greek yogurt – Adds richness and moisture
Line the loaf pan with parchment – Ensures easy removal
Let it cool before slicing – Helps hold its shape
Test doneness with a toothpick – Center should come out clean

Creative Variations of Ina Garten Banana Bread With Chocolate Chip

Use dark chocolate chunks – For a deeper chocolate flavor
Add chopped nuts for crunch – Walnuts or pecans work great
Mix in shredded coconut – Adds tropical flavor
Add a swirl of peanut butter – Kids will love it
Use mini chocolate chips – More evenly distributed bites
Top with a cinnamon-sugar crust – Adds texture and sweetness
Make them into muffins – Adjust baking time to 18–20 minutes

Storage Guidelines for Ina Garten Chocolate Chip Banana Bread

Wrap tightly and store at room temperature – Keeps fresh for 3–4 days
Refrigerate if your kitchen is warm – Stays moist longer
Freeze in slices or whole – Wrap in foil and store in freezer-safe bag
Thaw at room temperature – For about an hour before serving
Toast leftover slices – Revives the flavor and texture

Reheating Tips for Ina Garten Chocolate Chip Banana Bread

Microwave individual slices for 10–15 seconds – Quick and easy
Warm in the oven at 300°F for 5–7 minutes – Perfect for multiple slices
Toast in a skillet with butter – For crispy edges
Avoid overheating – Prevents drying out
Add a touch of honey or spread after warming – Enhances flavor

Nutrition Value (per serving – based on 10 slices)

Calories: 310 kcal
Protein: 4g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Sugar: 25g
Fiber: 2g
Sodium: 230mg
Cholesterol: 45mg

FAQs

Can I make Ina Garten’s banana bread with frozen bananas?

Yes, frozen bananas work well. Just thaw them completely and drain excess liquid before mashing. They’re often even sweeter than fresh ripe bananas, making your bread more flavorful.

How do I keep banana bread moist for days?

Store it in an airtight container at room temperature. Wrapping it in plastic wrap or foil helps retain moisture. You can also refrigerate or freeze it for longer storage.

Can I use yogurt instead of sour cream in banana bread?

Absolutely. Greek yogurt is a great substitute for sour cream and adds the same moisture and tanginess. Use equal amounts in the recipe.

Why did my banana bread sink in the middle?

Overmixing the batter or underbaking can cause banana bread to sink. Make sure to mix just until combined and check doneness with a toothpick inserted in the center—it should come out clean.

Wrapping Up

Ina Garten’s Chocolate Chip Banana Bread is the kind of recipe you’ll turn to again and again. It’s simple, full of flavor, and loved by everyone who tries it.