If you’ve ever dreamed of a cake that combines the rich indulgence of chocolate with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas, then you’re going to be over the moon with this Double Chocolate Banana Cake Recipe. It’s the perfect balance of moist, fudgy, and flavorful, effortlessly turning humble pantry staples into a show-stopping dessert or cozy snack. This recipe brings together luscious cocoa, melting chocolate chips, and the wholesome goodness of bananas in a way that feels like a warm hug from the inside out. Whether you’re baking for your family or impressing friends, this cake will quickly become a beloved classic in your rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A close-up view of a freshly baked chocolate chip banana cake in a clear glass square baking dish, with a dark brown top layer studded evenly with small, shiny chocolate chips creating a textured surface. The dish is placed on a white marbled surface, nearby a bunch of three ripe yellow bananas with brown speckles on their peel and a small pile of dark chocolate chips. In the background, there is a glass bottle filled with milk with a red and white striped straw inside it, and several more red and white striped straws lying around. A metal spatula with a black handle rests beside the baking dish. The overall scene has a bright and homemade vibe. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting this Double Chocolate Banana Cake Recipe just right means using a handful of simple, everyday ingredients that each play a vital role in building its decadent flavor, tender crumb, and perfect texture.

Mashed bananas: Use about three small to medium ripe bananas to provide natural sweetness and moisture.
Light brown sugar: Adds a delicate caramel note and helps keep the cake soft.
Unsweetened applesauce: Serves as a healthy fat alternative for moistness without heaviness.
Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with its warm, aromatic touch.
Large egg: Acts as a binder and adds structure to the cake.
All-purpose flour: Provides the necessary body and helps create that classic cake crumb.
Unsweetened cocoa powder: Packs an intense chocolate punch and deep color.
Baking soda: The leavening agent that makes the cake light and fluffy.
Salt: Balances and intensifies all the sweet flavors.
Semi-sweet chocolate chips: Melt deliciously throughout the cake for bursts of chocolate magic.
Mini chocolate chips (optional): Sprinkled on top for added texture and endless chocolate appeal.

How to Make Double Chocolate Banana Cake Recipe

Step 1: Mash the bananas and mix with sugar

Start by mashing your ripe bananas in a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, then gently incorporate the light brown sugar until it dissolves completely. This combination forms the naturally sweet base that keeps the cake moist and flavorful.

Step 2: Add wet ingredients

Next, blend in the unsweetened applesauce, vanilla extract, and the large egg. These ingredients help to bind everything together and mellow out the sweetness while providing a tender crumb you’ll absolutely love.

Step 3: Combine dry ingredients separately

In a different bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Mixing the dry ingredients independently ensures that your cake’s texture will be even and airy, preventing clumps of cocoa or baking soda.

Step 4: Mix wet and dry ingredients

Pour the dry ingredients into the banana mixture and mix until just combined. Overmixing can toughen the cake, so stop once everything looks evenly incorporated. This step is key to achieving a tender, light crumb.

Step 5: Fold in chocolate chips and prepare to bake

Gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips, making sure their melt-in-your-mouth goodness is evenly distributed throughout the batter. Pour the batter into a buttered 8×8-inch baking dish and sprinkle mini chocolate chips on top for that extra touch of chocolatey decadence.

Step 6: Bake to perfection

Bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 25 to 35 minutes. You’ll want to check the center with a toothpick around the 25-minute mark; when it comes out with just a few moist crumbs, it’s ready. This cake is best enjoyed warm, when those chocolate chips are still slightly gooey!

How to Serve Double Chocolate Banana Cake Recipe

A white plate with nine dark brown chocolate squares arranged in a 3x3 grid, each square topped with small shiny chocolate chips that add a bit of texture and sparkle. In the background, there are three ripe yellow bananas leaning against a white marbled surface, and next to them is a clear glass bottle filled with creamy white milk with a red and white striped straw inside. To the front right of the plate, there are several light yellow banana slices laying flat, along with a couple of scattered chocolate chips. The scene has a cozy and fresh feel, with soft light highlighting the moist texture of the chocolate squares. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Enhance your cake with a dollop of whipped cream, a dusting of powdered sugar, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Fresh berries or a drizzle of chocolate sauce can also make a beautiful, flavorful addition that complements the rich chocolate and banana notes perfectly.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit or a simple cup of coffee or tea to balance its richness. For a brunch twist, serve alongside creamy yogurt or a colorful fruit salad to bring out the moisture and sweetness of the bananas.

Creative Ways to Present

Try cutting the cake into small squares and serving on a dessert platter at your next gathering. You could also layer slices with mascarpone or cream cheese frosting for an elegant twist. For a fun treat, serve warm cake with a scoop of peanut butter ice cream or salty caramel sauce drizzled on top.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store your Double Chocolate Banana Cake Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer freshness, it can also be kept in the refrigerator, though be sure to bring it to room temperature before serving to enjoy the best texture.

Freezing

You can freeze individual slices or the entire cake wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil. This way, it keeps its moisture and flavor for up to three months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating or serving.

Reheating

Warm slices in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds or gently heat in a low oven until soft and fragrant. This step revives the cake’s moistness and brings out the melty chocolate chips for pure happiness in every bite.

FAQs

Can I use overripe bananas for this recipe?

Absolutely! Overripe bananas are perfect for this Double Chocolate Banana Cake Recipe because they’re sweeter and easier to mash, adding extra flavor and moisture to your cake.

Is it possible to substitute the applesauce?

Yes, you can replace the unsweetened applesauce with an equal amount of mashed avocado or yogurt for similar moisture and texture, though the flavor might shift slightly.

Can I use different types of chocolate chips?

Definitely! While semi-sweet chocolate chips are classic, you can use dark, milk, or even white chocolate chips to customize the sweetness and richness to your liking.

How do I know when the cake is fully baked?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Avoid waiting until it’s completely dry to keep it moist and fudgy.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

You can try using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour, but keep in mind that the texture and rising might slightly differ. Always check the blend’s instructions for best results.

Final Thoughts

This Double Chocolate Banana Cake Recipe is one of those rare treats that feels both indulgent and comforting. It’s a perfect way to use up ripe bananas while satisfying any chocolate craving with ease. Give it a whirl, and I’m sure it’ll become a family favorite you’ll reach for again and again. Happy baking!