Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas.
Add honey (or maple syrup) and applesauce to the mashed bananas; mix well.
Beat in the eggs until fully incorporated.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding gently until just combined.
If using, fold in the dark chocolate chips.
Pour the batter into a greased loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
