Banana Chocolate Chip Cupcakes Recipe

Banana and chocolate have long been a beloved flavor pairing, and these Banana Chocolate Chip Cupcakes with Chocolate Buttercream take that union to an irresistible level.

Combining the natural sweetness and moistness of ripe bananas with bursts of rich chocolate chips, these cupcakes offer a tender crumb and decadent taste.

Topped with smooth, creamy chocolate buttercream, they’re perfect for any celebration or casual indulgence. This recipe balances wholesome ingredients with indulgent flavors, ensuring a delightful treat that’s simple to prepare and hard to resist.

Ingredients Checklist

Before you begin baking, gather these essential ingredients for a perfect batch of Banana Chocolate Chip Cupcakes with Chocolate Buttercream. These ingredients are divided into the cupcake base and the frosting to keep your process organized.

Cupcakes:

• 1 and 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour — provides the structure of the cupcakes.

• 1 teaspoon baking soda — helps cupcakes rise and stay tender.

• 1/4 teaspoon salt — balances flavors.

• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional) — adds warm, subtle spice.

• 3 large ripe bananas (about 1 cup mashed) — key for moistness and natural sweetness.

• 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar — sweetens the cupcakes.

• 1/4 cup (50g) brown sugar — adds moisture and caramel notes.

• 1/3 cup (75ml) vegetable oil or melted butter — keeps the crumb tender.

• 2 large eggs, room temperature — binds ingredients and adds richness.

• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract — enhances overall flavor.

• 3/4 cup (135g) semi-sweet chocolate chips — for bursts of chocolate.

Chocolate Buttercream Frosting:

• 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened — creamy base.

• 1 and 1/2 cups (190g) powdered sugar — sweetens and thickens.

• 1/4 cup (25g) unsweetened cocoa powder — chocolate flavor.

• 2-3 tablespoons (30-45ml) heavy cream or milk — adjusts frosting consistency.

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract — flavor enhancer.

• Pinch of salt — balances sweetness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

This step-by-step guide ensures your cupcakes turn out moist, flavorful, and beautifully frosted. Following each step carefully will help you master this delightful recipe.

Preparing the Cupcakes

1. Preheat oven and prep pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners for easy removal and cleanup.

2. Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon (if using). Set aside.

3. Mash bananas: Peel ripe bananas (look for lots of brown speckles) and mash thoroughly with a fork or potato masher until smooth but slightly chunky for texture.

4. Combine wet ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk sugar, brown sugar, and oil until well combined. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract. Stir in mashed bananas.

5. Incorporate dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet, folding gently with a spatula until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep cupcakes tender.

6. Add chocolate chips: Fold in chocolate chips carefully to distribute evenly without breaking them up.

7. Fill cupcake liners: Scoop batter into liners, filling about two-thirds full to allow space for rising.

8. Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 18-22 minutes. Start checking at 18 minutes by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean or with moist crumbs attached.

9. Cool: Let cupcakes cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.

Making the Chocolate Buttercream

1. Cream butter: Using a stand mixer or hand mixer, beat softened butter on medium speed until creamy (about 2 minutes).

2. Add dry ingredients: Sift together powdered sugar and cocoa powder. Gradually add to the butter, mixing on low speed to avoid a sugar cloud.

3. Add liquid and flavor: Pour in 2 tablespoons of heavy cream and vanilla extract. Beat on medium-high speed until light, fluffy, and smooth. Adjust consistency with more cream or powdered sugar as needed.

4. Salt balance: Add a pinch of salt to cut through the sweetness.

Frosting and Decorating

1. Frost cupcakes: Use a piping bag or a knife to frost the cooled cupcakes generously with chocolate buttercream.

2. Optional garnish: Decorate with chocolate shavings, mini chocolate chips, or chopped nuts for added texture and appeal.

Tips for Perfect Results

Here are expert tips to elevate your banana chocolate chip cupcakes from good to exceptional:

• Bananas: Use bananas with lots of brown spots or fully brown skins for the best flavor and sweetness.

• Room temperature ingredients: Ensure eggs, butter, and oil are at room temperature to blend more smoothly and trap air for fluffier cupcakes.

• Avoid overmixing: Fold dry ingredients just until combined to prevent dense, tough cupcakes.

• Chocolate chips: Toss chocolate chips in a tablespoon of flour before folding in to prevent them from sinking to the bottom.

• Baking time: Oven temperatures vary; start checking cupcakes early to avoid dryness.

• Frosting consistency: If frosting is too soft, chill it for 10 minutes before piping.

• Substitutions: For a dairy-free version, use coconut oil in place of butter and a plant-based milk alternative.

Serving Suggestions

These Banana Chocolate Chip Cupcakes are versatile and suitable for various occasions. Here are some serving ideas to impress:

• Casual gatherings: Serve cupcakes as a sweet treat alongside coffee or tea.

• Parties: Present on a tiered cupcake stand decorated with fresh banana slices and chocolate curls.

• Dessert plate: Pair with vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra indulgence.

• Breakfast treat: Enjoy slightly warmed with a smear of peanut butter or cream cheese for a richer experience.

• Seasonal variations: Top with toasted coconut or swap chocolate chips for white chocolate or nuts for different flavor profiles.

Final Thoughts

Banana Chocolate Chip Cupcakes with Chocolate Buttercream combine the natural sweetness and moist texture of bananas with the richness of chocolate for a treat that satisfies any dessert craving.

This recipe offers clear, step-by-step guidance to achieve perfectly tender cupcakes with luscious frosting, elevating a classic flavor pairing.

By paying attention to ingredient quality, baking times, and frosting technique, you can create a crowd-pleasing dessert that’s both comforting and elegant.

Whether for everyday enjoyment or special celebrations, these cupcakes are a delicious testament to the timeless appeal of bananas and chocolate.