This healthy Chocolate Chip Banana Bread is a simple, crowd-pleasing recipe that’s perfect for using up ripe bananas. Moist and tender with just the right amount of sweetness, the addition of melty chocolate chips makes it a favorite for toddlers and the whole family. With straightforward ingredients and easy steps, it’s a great bake for breakfast, snack time, or lunchbox treats. Plus, it freezes beautifully for busy days ahead!

Why Chocolate Chip Banana Bread is Great for Toddlers

1. Fruit-Packed: With three mashed bananas, this bread is rich in essential vitamins and fiber, supporting your toddler’s growth and development.
2. Simple Ingredients: The recipe is incredibly straightforward, using ingredients commonly found in most kitchens. It’s a convenient and budget-friendly option.
3. Kid-Approved Taste: The combination of sweet bananas and chocolate chips is sure to be a hit with your toddler’s taste buds.

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Ingredients

• 3 mashed bananas
• 1/2 cup chocolate chips
• 2 eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups self-raising flour

Note: If you don’t have self-raising flour, you can create your own by using 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour and adding 2 1/4 tsp of baking powder and 1/4 tsp salt.

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How to Make Banana Chocolate Chip Bread

1. Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a standard loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Prepare the Wet Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, mash the three ripe bananas until they become smooth and free of lumps. Then add the two eggs and a teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix these wet ingredients well until they are fully combined.
3. Incorporate the Dry Ingredients: Add the 1 1/2 cups of self-raising flour (or the equivalent with added baking soda) to the wet mixture. Stir until all the ingredients are incorporated and you have a consistent batter.
4. Add Chocolate Chips: Gently fold in the 1/2 cup of chocolate chips into the batter.
5. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Baking times may vary, so keep an eye on your bread in the last few minutes.
6. Cool and Serve: Allow the Chocolate Chip Banana Bread for toddlers to cool in the pan for a few minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, slice and serve to your hungry toddler.

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Substitutions

Flour: Swap all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to make this banana bread gluten-free. Almond or oat flour can be used but may change the texture slightly.

Chocolate chips: Use dairy-free or mini chocolate chips for a toddler-friendly option. You can also swap for raisins or chopped nuts if preferred.

Eggs: Sub for a flax egg.

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To Store any Leftover Chocolate Chip Banana Bread

• Room temperature: Wrap in plastic wrap, and leave on the counter for 2-3 days.
• Refrigeration: Place the bread in an airtight container or wrap it in plastic wrap. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: If you’d like to save some for later, wrap slices or the whole loaf in plastic wrap and place it in an airtight container or a freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw at room temperature or in the refrigerator before serving.

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Common Questions

Can I make this banana bread into muffins?

• Yes! Just divide the batter evenly into a greased or lined muffin tin and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 18-22 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Muffins bake faster and make great toddler-sized portions.

Is this chocolate chip banana bread gluten-free?

• The original recipe uses all-purpose flour, but you can easily substitute a gluten-free 1:1 baking flour to make it gluten-free.

Can I add other mix-ins?

• Definitely! Feel free to add chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or dried fruit like raisins or cranberries. You can also add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra flavor.

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More Easy Toddler Recipes

Cottage Cheese Muffins – These soft, protein-rich muffins are made with blended cottage cheese and just the right amount of sweetness. Great for toddlers, they work well for breakfast, snacks, or on the go.

Raspberry Banana Bread – Sweet bananas and tart raspberries come together in this soft, fruity loaf. It’s toddler-approved, easy to freeze, and perfect for a simple, wholesome snack or breakfast.

Cinnamon Raisin Bagels – Chewy, soft, and lightly sweet, these homemade bagels are dotted with juicy raisins and a hint of cinnamon. A great breakfast or snack for toddlers—no fancy shaping required!

Banana Crepes – These soft, banana-sweetened crepes are quick to make and fun to fill. Roll them with fruit, yogurt, or nut butter for a simple toddler-friendly meal or snack.

Banana Carrot Mini Muffins – These mini muffins are soft, naturally sweet, and packed with banana and carrot. A great way to serve veggies at snack time, and they freeze well for easy meal prep.

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Tag me @reallittlemeals if you’ve tried this easy chocolate chip banana bread! I’d love to see your yummy creations!