There are few things more comforting than the smell of banana bread baking in the oven. It fills the kitchen with warmth and promise, inviting everyone to linger just a little longer. This chocolate chip banana bread cake is as simple as it is satisfying, tender and fragrant with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas.

Made with five bananas, it is wonderfully moist and full of flavor. Serve it warm for breakfast when you have a house full of guests, or slice it in the afternoon with a cup of tea. It can also be served as a dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream melting over the top. However you choose to enjoy it, this recipe feels like home, easy and nourishing and always welcome.

🍌 Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Cake

Ingredients

• Nonstick baking spray, for the pan
• 8 tablespoons (1 stick) salted butter, melted
• 1 cup packed brown sugar (light or dark)
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 4 to 5 ripe bananas, mashed
• 1¾ cups all-purpose flour (regular or cup-for-cup gluten-free)
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon
• ½ to 1 cup mini or regular semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional)
• 1 to 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, for dusting on top

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350 °F and spray an 8 × 8 inch baking pan with nonstick baking spray or line it with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the melted butter, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla until well blended. Add the mashed bananas, leaving some small chunks for texture.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until just combined. Fold in the chocolate chips if using.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Sprinkle the top with granulated sugar and add a few extra chocolate chips if you like.
6. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Let the bread cool slightly in the pan on a rack. Slice and serve warm with butter.

When completely cooled, cover and store for up to two days.

Simple, comforting, and filled with the goodness of ripe bananas and a touch of chocolate, this banana bread cake is the perfect way to slow down and savor the weekend.