Banana Bread Recipe
If you’ve ever wondered how to achieve that perfectly moist, sweet, and comforting treat, this Banana Bread Recipe is the answer you’ve been craving. It combines ripe bananas with a blend of simple pantry ingredients to create a loaf that’s delightfully tender with just the right crumb. Whether you’re baking for breakfast, a snack, or a late-night indulgence, this recipe delivers a warm hug of flavor that feels like home with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step toward banana bread bliss. Each item plays a key role in shaping the texture, sweetness, and richness, so having them ready ensures smooth baking and fantastic results.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds creamy richness and moisture to keep the bread tender.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the loaf and helps develop a golden crust.
- 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients while adding structure and fluffiness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses an aromatic warmth that complements the bananas perfectly.
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation for the bread’s soft crumb.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Works as a leavening agent to help the bread rise beautifully.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Locks in moisture while adding a slight tang to deepen the taste.
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed: The star ingredient providing natural sweetness and a soft, moist texture.
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional): Offers a delightful crunch and nutty contrast if you like a bit of texture.
How to Make Banana Bread Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Greasing a 9×5-inch loaf pan is essential to make sure your banana bread doesn’t stick — this promises a smooth release and perfect shape.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
Whip the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture turns light and fluffy. This process incorporates air, which helps give your bread a tender crumb. Add in the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract for that unmistakable fragrant touch.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients well ensures an even rise and balanced saltiness, keeping every slice perfectly flavored.
Step 4: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually stir the dry mixture into your wet mixture until they’re just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender and prevent it from becoming dense.
Step 5: Add Sour Cream, Mashed Bananas, and Walnuts
Folding in the sour cream and mashed bananas introduces that luscious moisture and flavor banana bread is famous for. If you’re a fan of texture, gently mix in the chopped walnuts, giving each bite a pleasant crunch.
Step 6: Bake with Care
Pour your batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top evenly. Bake for 60-65 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Your kitchen will soon be filled with that irresistible banana aroma.
Step 7: Let It Cool
Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This step helps the loaf set properly so you can slice it neatly without crumbling.
How to Serve Banana Bread Recipe
Garnishes
Simple toppings like a light spread of butter or cream cheese can elevate your banana bread experience. For an extra touch of indulgence, drizzle with honey or sprinkle a bit of powdered sugar right before serving.
Side Dishes
This banana bread pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a cozy breakfast or snack. You can also serve it alongside a fresh fruit salad to balance the sweetness with some bright, juicy flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, slice and toast your banana bread, then top it with Greek yogurt and fresh berries. Or, turn leftovers into delicious french toast for a weekend brunch that will wow your family.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap any leftover banana bread tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay fresh and moist for about 2 to 3 days, perfect if you plan to nibble slowly.
Freezing
This Banana Bread Recipe freezes beautifully. Wrap the cooled loaf in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to protect it from freezer burn. You can freeze slices individually for convenient thawing too.
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy frozen banana bread, thaw it at room temperature. Warm slices gently in a toaster oven or microwave for a few seconds to revive that freshly baked feeling.
FAQs
Can I use overripe bananas for this recipe?
Absolutely! Overripe bananas are actually ideal because they’re sweeter and mash easily, which makes your banana bread even more flavorful and moist.
What if I don’t have sour cream on hand?
You can substitute sour cream with an equal amount of Greek yogurt or buttermilk. These alternatives will also add moisture and a little tangy brightness to the bread.
Can I make banana bread without nuts?
Yes! Nuts are completely optional. Leaving them out will give you a smoother texture and makes the bread nut-free, perfect for anyone with allergies.
How do I know when the banana bread is done baking?
The best way is to insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, your bread is perfectly baked and ready to cool.
Can I double the recipe for a larger batch?
Definitely! Just be sure to use two loaf pans or a larger pan, and adjust the baking time accordingly, checking for doneness with a toothpick after about an hour.
Final Thoughts
This Banana Bread Recipe is one you’ll come back to again and again because it’s simple, satisfying, and filled with that classic banana flavor everyone loves. Baking it is like sending a warm hug to your senses—so why not grab those ripe bananas and get started? I promise it will become one of your favorite recipes in no time.
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Banana Bread Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings 1x
Description
This classic Banana Bread recipe is a moist and flavorful treat made with ripe bananas, sour cream, and a touch of vanilla. It features a tender crumb and optional crunchy walnuts for added texture. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a wholesome snack, this easy-to-make bread bakes to golden perfection in about an hour.
Ingredients
Banana Bread Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan to ensure the bread doesn’t stick during baking.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, creating a well-aerated base for your bread.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Incorporate the eggs one at a time into the creamed butter and sugar, beating well after each addition to ensure even mixing, then stir in the vanilla extract for flavor.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt to distribute the leavening agent evenly and season the bread properly.
- Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined to avoid overmixing which can toughen the bread.
- Add Sour Cream, Bananas, and Walnuts: Fold in the sour cream, mashed ripe bananas, and optional chopped walnuts to add moisture, sweetness, and crunch.
- Prepare Batter in Pan: Pour the batter into the greased loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula for even baking.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 60-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, indicating the bread is fully cooked.
- Cool the Bread: Allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Ensure bananas are very ripe for maximum sweetness and moisture.
- If you prefer a nut-free version, omit the walnuts.
- Check your oven temperature with an oven thermometer for accurate baking.
- Store banana bread wrapped at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60-65 minutes
- Category: Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
