Oh boy, am I excited to share this recipe with you! Decadent Chocolate Hazelnut-Stuffed Banana Bread is not just any ordinary banana bread; it is a slice of heaven! When I first tried this recipe, I couldn’t believe how the delightful combination of rich chocolate and crunchy hazelnuts transformed the classic banana bread into something extraordinarily indulgent. It’s like the best of two worlds colliding—perfectly ripe bananas and the oh-so-smooth, velvety goodness of chocolate hazelnut spread.
Every time I whip up this banana bread, I can’t help but think of my childhood weekends spent in the kitchen with my grandma. She would always have overripe bananas on the counter, and we would bake banana bread together for a cozy treat. But this recipe takes that nostalgia up a notch! Imagine the warm, comforting aroma of baked banana bread wafting through the house, with a gooey surprise in the middle! Trust me, once you try it, you’ll understand why this has quickly become one of my go-to recipes.
What’s in Decadent Chocolate Hazelnut-Stuffed Banana Bread?
Let’s break down the key players in this delightful recipe:
Bananas: Overripe bananas are the star of the show! The riper they are, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be. Look for those spotted beauties that are perfect for mashing!
Flour: All-purpose flour gives the bread its structure. You can also experiment with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and extra nutrients.
Sugar: A little bit of granulated sugar boosts the sweetness. You can adjust based on your taste or use coconut sugar for a healthier option.
Baking Soda: This leavening agent helps the bread rise and makes it light and fluffy. Don’t skip this one!
Eggs: Eggs are essential for binding everything together and providing moisture. They also add a bit of richness.
Chocolate Hazelnut Spread: This is where the magic happens! You know the one, often found in a jar with a hazelnut on the label. It’s creamy, dreamy, and oh-so-decadent!
Chopped Hazelnuts: For some they add crunch and texture, complementing the smoothness of the chocolate hazelnut spread. If you’re feeling adventurous, roast them beforehand for extra flavor.
Butter: A little melted butter adds richness and helps to create that moist texture we all love. You could also use coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
Is Decadent Chocolate Hazelnut-Stuffed Banana Bread Good for You?
While this banana bread is undeniably a treat, it does have some benefits!
Bananas: They provide natural sweetness and are a great source of potassium, which is perfect for heart health. Plus, they give the bread that delightful moistness!
Hazelnuts: These little nuts pack a nutritional punch. They’re loaded with healthy fats, antioxidants, and vitamin E. Not to mention, their flavor pairs beautifully with chocolate!
However, it’s still important to enjoy this bread in moderation. The chocolate hazelnut spread and sugar can add up in calories, so it’s best to savor this crumble as a treat rather than an everyday snack.
Ingredients List
This recipe serves about 8 people:
– 3 overripe bananas, mashed
– 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– ½ cup granulated sugar (or to taste)
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 2 large eggs
– ⅓ cup melted butter (or coconut oil)
– ½ cup chocolate hazelnut spread
– ½ cup chopped hazelnuts (optional)
How to Make Decadent Chocolate Hazelnut-Stuffed Banana Bread?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, mix the mashed bananas and sugar until well combined.
3. Add the melted butter, eggs, and baking soda to the banana mixture. Stir until combined.
4. Gradually fold in the flour until just mixed. Be careful not to overmix—lumpy is good!
5. Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
6. Add ½ of the chocolate hazelnut spread on top, followed by ¼ cup of the chopped hazelnuts (if using).
7. Pour the remaining batter over the layer of hazelnut spread, and dollop the rest of the spread on top. Swirl gently with a knife to create a marbled effect.
8. Top with the remaining hazelnuts if desired.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
10. Let it cool for a bit, slice generously, and get ready for the compliments!
Serving Suggestions and Tips for Making It Perfect
This banana bread is perfect as an afternoon snack with a cup of tea or coffee. You can also turn it into a dessert by serving it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side.
If you’re feeling extra adventurous, add some chocolate chips or a sprinkle of cinnamon to the batter! This recipe is also fantastic for making mini loaves or muffins—just adjust the baking time accordingly.
I can’t stress enough how much you want to try this recipe! It’s delightful, it’s nostalgic, and it’s a chocolate lover’s dream. I’d absolutely love to hear how it turns out for you, so please feel free to comment below about your baking adventures with this banana bread! Happy baking!
