Creating Chocolate Espresso Banana Bread is a simple process that yields fantastic results. Just follow these easy steps:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. Mash Bananas: In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth.
3. Mix Butter: Stir the melted butter into the mashed bananas until well combined.
4. Add Ingredients: Mix in the baking soda and salt. Add the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract, stirring until well incorporated.
5. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, and instant espresso powder.
6. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, stirring just until combined. Be careful not to overmix.
7. Fold in Chocolate Chips: Gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips and optional nuts, if using.
8. Pour Batter: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
9. Bake: Place in the preheated oven and bake for 55-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
10. Cool: Remove from the oven and let the bread cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

These straightforward steps will guide you in creating this incredible Chocolate Espresso Banana Bread that everyone will love!