Banana bread is a timeless classic, cherished for its soft texture, rich flavor, and ease of preparation. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast option, a mid-day snack, or a delightful dessert, this banana bread recipe will hit the spot. Made with ripe bananas, sour cream for added moisture, and an optional crunch of walnuts, this recipe is perfect for anyone craving a homemade treat.
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
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 cup sour cream
3 ripe bananas, mashed
1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
Prep the Oven and Pan:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set it aside.
Cream Butter and Sugar:
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This step is key for achieving a tender loaf. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then mix in the vanilla extract.
Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
Add Bananas and Sour Cream:
Stir in the sour cream and mashed bananas. These ingredients help make the bread moist and fluffy. If you’re adding walnuts, fold them in at this stage.
Bake the Banana Bread:
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 60-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool and Serve:
Allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. Enjoy!
Serving Tips:
Warm and Buttered: Serve banana bread slices warm with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey for extra sweetness.
With Cream Cheese: Spread a layer of cream cheese for a rich, tangy contrast to the sweet banana flavor.
Toasted: For a crispy twist, lightly toast the banana bread and serve with jam or peanut butter.
Add Toppings: Top slices with whipped cream, fresh fruit, or a sprinkle of cinnamon for a dessert-like experience.
Banana Bread French Toast: Turn leftover banana bread into a unique breakfast by dipping slices in an egg mixture and frying like French toast.
Storage Tips:
At Room Temperature: Store the banana bread wrapped in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to maintain its moisture. It will stay fresh at room temperature for up to 3 days.
In the Refrigerator: If you prefer to store banana bread in the fridge, wrap it well in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. This will keep it fresh for up to 5-7 days, but note that refrigeration can sometimes dry it out.
Freezing Banana Bread:
For longer storage, banana bread freezes well. Once the bread is completely cool, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe ziplock bag.
Freeze for up to 3 months.
To thaw, let the bread sit at room temperature for a few hours, or defrost slices in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds.
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FAQs:
How can I make my bread more moist?
To ensure your bread stays moist, use ripe bananas (preferably with brown spots) and sour cream in the recipe. Both ingredients add natural moisture. Additionally, avoid overmixing the batter, as this can lead to a denser and drier texture.
Can I add other ingredients like chocolate chips or berries?
Absolutely! You can easily customize the bread by adding extras like chocolate chips, berries, or even shredded coconut. Just fold them into the batter before pouring it into the loaf pan, being careful not to overmix.
Can I freeze the bread?
Yes, banana bread freezes very well. To freeze, wrap the loaf or individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then a layer of aluminum foil, or store in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or heat in the microwave for 20-30 seconds per slice.
Why did my bread sink in the middle?
Banana bread may sink if it’s underbaked or the oven temperature is too high, causing the outside to cook faster than the inside. To prevent this, ensure the bread is fully cooked by inserting a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, it’s done. Also, avoid opening the oven door frequently during baking, as this can cause the bread to deflate.
Conclusion:
This moist and fluffy banana bread will quickly become a household favorite. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is foolproof and delicious. Serve it with a pat of butter, enjoy it on its own, or pair it with a cup of coffee for the perfect snack!
📖 Recipe:
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Banana Bread
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 10 slices
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This moist and fluffy banana bread recipe is perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. Made with ripe bananas, sour cream, and an optional walnut crunch, this easy banana bread is a classic treat. Bake it in under 70 minutes for a delicious homemade delight that your family will love. Try it toasted, with butter, or cream cheese for extra indulgence.
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 to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- Cream together softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well. Stir in vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined.
- Stir in sour cream, mashed bananas, and optional walnuts.
- Pour batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 60-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Notes
For extra moist banana bread, use very ripe bananas with brown spots.
Optional: Add chocolate chips or cinnamon for a flavor variation.
Store at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Snack, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 10 slices
- Calories: 240 kcal per slice
