Chocolate Cherry Banana Bread

Chocolate Cherry Banana Bread is a rich twist on the classic banana loaf, combining sweet ripe bananas, bursts of tart cherries, and deep chocolate flavor in every slice. This moist banana bread recipe is soft, tender, and filled with melted chocolate chips that make it feel like dessert while still keeping the comforting essence of traditional banana bread.

If you love banana bread with cherries and want something a little more indulgent, this chocolate banana loaf recipe delivers the perfect balance between fruity brightness and cocoa richness. It’s ideal for breakfast, brunch, afternoon coffee, or even as a holiday dessert addition.

With simple ingredients and easy preparation, this easy chocolate banana bread can quickly become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.

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Why Chocolate and Cherry Work So Well Together

Chocolate and cherries are a classic pairing. The deep, slightly bitter flavor of cocoa enhances the natural sweetness of bananas while the cherries add bright, juicy bursts throughout the loaf.

The result is a layered flavor profile:

• Sweet and creamy from ripe bananas
• Rich and decadent from chocolate
• Slightly tart and refreshing from cherries

This combination makes chocolate cherry banana bread feel elevated while remaining familiar and comforting.

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Ingredients

Dry Ingredients

• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 ripe bananas, mashed

Add-Ins

• 3/4 cup chocolate chips
• 3/4 cup chopped cherries (fresh, frozen, or dried)

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Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

3. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

4. In a large bowl, whisk melted butter with granulated sugar and brown sugar until smooth.
5. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
6. Stir in vanilla extract and mashed bananas.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry

7. Gradually fold dry ingredients into wet mixture. Mix just until combined.

Step 5: Add Chocolate and Cherries

8. Gently fold in chocolate chips and chopped cherries.

Step 6: Bake

9. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
10. Bake for 55–65 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with only a few moist crumbs.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

11. Allow loaf to cool in pan for 10–15 minutes.
12. Transfer to a wire rack and cool completely before slicing.

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Tips for Perfect Moist Banana Bread

Use Overripe Bananas

Dark, spotty bananas provide maximum sweetness and moisture.

Toss Cherries in Flour

Lightly coat chopped cherries in a small amount of flour before folding into the batter. This prevents them from sinking to the bottom.

Do Not Overmix

Overmixing can lead to dense bread. Stir gently until ingredients are incorporated.

Check Early

Ovens vary, so start checking around 50 minutes to avoid overbaking.

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Flavor Variations

Dark Chocolate Version

Use dark chocolate chips for a more intense chocolate flavor.

White Chocolate Cherry

Replace regular chocolate chips with white chocolate chips for a sweeter twist.

Almond Chocolate Cherry

Add 1/2 teaspoon almond extract to enhance the cherry flavor.

Nutty Addition

Fold in 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.

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Serving Suggestions

Chocolate cherry banana bread pairs well with:

• Fresh whipped cream
• Vanilla ice cream
• Hot coffee or espresso
• Light dusting of powdered sugar
• Chocolate drizzle

It works beautifully for:

• Holiday brunch spreads
• Afternoon tea
• Dessert platters
• Gifting during festive seasons

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Storage and Freezing

Room Temperature

Wrap tightly and store for up to 3 days.

Refrigerator

Store up to 5 days for extended freshness.

Freezer

Wrap slices individually and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen cherries?

Yes. Thaw and drain excess liquid before adding to the batter.

Can I make muffins instead of a loaf?

Yes. Divide batter into muffin tins and bake for 18–22 minutes.

Can I reduce sugar?

You may reduce slightly, but texture and sweetness will change.

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Final Thoughts

Chocolate Cherry Banana Bread is a delightful upgrade to the traditional banana loaf. The rich cocoa flavor, juicy cherries, and soft banana crumb create a perfectly balanced treat that feels both comforting and indulgent.

Whether you’re looking for a moist banana bread recipe for brunch or a chocolate banana loaf recipe for dessert, this easy chocolate banana bread delivers satisfying flavor and bakery-quality texture every time.