Banana Chocolate Bread

I've made this bread a few times now and so far everyone who's tried it thought it was pretty fantastic,  but since the recipe if from Veganomicon, I expected no less.  It's easy to make and great to give away or take to a party.  It can also be made without chocolate chips -- but why?

Banana Bread with Chocolate Chips( Adapted from Veganomicon)

2            large or 3 small very ripe bananas

1/4         cup applesauce (natural)

1/4         cup canola oil

1/2         cup sugar

2            tablespoons molasses

2            cups all purpose flour

3/4         teaspoon baking soda

1/4         teaspoon ground nutmeg

1            teaspoon ground cinnamon  (I left out due to allergies)

1/2         teaspoon salt

1/2         cup chocolate chips

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Lightly grease 9 x 5 inch loaf pan.

In large mixing bowl, mash the bananas really well.  Add the sugar, applesauce, oil, and molasses, and whisk briskly to incorporate.

Sift in the flour, baking soda, spices, and salt. Use wooden spoon to mix until the wet and dry ingredients are just combined. Fold in the chocolate chips.

Transfer the batter to the prepared pan and bake for 45 – 50 minutes.  Top should be lightly browned and knife inserted through the center should come out clean, some chocolate will come out on knife.  Llow to cool.