Creating your Double Chocolate Banana Bread is straightforward with these easy-to-follow steps:

1. Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with non-stick spray or line it with parchment paper.
2. Prepare Bananas: In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth. Leave a few small lumps for added texture.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients: Add the melted butter to the mashed bananas and stir to combine. Then add the granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract, mixing until well incorporated.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the baking soda, salt, flour, and cocoa powder.
5. Mix Dry into Wet: Slowly add the dry ingredients into the banana mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
6. Add Chocolate Chips and Nuts: Fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips and chopped nuts if using, ensuring even distribution throughout the batter.
7. Pour into Pan: Transfer the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
8. Bake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 55-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
9. Cool: Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes. Then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Slice and Serve: Once cooled, slice your Double Chocolate Banana Bread and enjoy!