This banana bread is the perfect balance of sweetness and moisture, thanks to the addition of sour cream. The soft crumb is ideal for breakfast, afternoon tea, or any time you crave a comforting snack.
The sour cream not only adds flavor but also keeps the bread incredibly moist, making it a hit with anyone who tries it. You can customize this recipe by adding in your favorite nuts, chocolate chips, or a sprinkle of cinnamon for added flavor. Whether served plain or toasted with a pat of butter, this banana bread is sure to be a favorite in your baking rotation.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
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1 teaspoon baking powder
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1/2 teaspoon baking soda
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
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1/2 cup butter, softened
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1 cup granulated sugar
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2 large eggs
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 3 bananas)
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1/2 cup sour cream
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1/4 cup milk
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1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Directions:
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
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In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Set aside.
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In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
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Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
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Add the mashed bananas, sour cream, and milk to the butter mixture. Stir until well combined.
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Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Avoid over-mixing to keep the bread tender.
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Gently fold in the chopped nuts, if using.
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Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
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Bake for 60-65 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 65 minutes | Total Time: 80 minutes
Kcal: 280 kcal | Servings: 8 slices
Banana Bread with Sour Cream: The Ultimate Comfort Recipe
Banana bread is a timeless, comforting treat that has been a favorite in many households for generations. Whether it’s a snack, breakfast, or a comforting dessert, banana bread is perfect for any occasion. However, what sets this banana bread apart is the use of sour cream, which elevates the texture and flavor to an entirely new level. This recipe isn’t just another banana bread recipe; it’s one that combines the perfect balance of sweetness, moistness, and richness, making it a guaranteed hit in your kitchen.
The Origins of Banana Bread
Banana bread, as we know it today, was likely introduced in the early 20th century. With the rise of commercial baking powder and baking soda, the texture of quick breads became lighter, faster, and easier to prepare than ever before. It wasn’t long before the humble banana, which was often too ripe to eat as a fruit, found its place in this type of baking. Over the decades, banana bread has evolved, with countless variations added. Today, the addition of ingredients like chocolate chips, nuts, and even sour cream adds a new twist on this classic recipe.
While banana bread remains a simple and versatile baked good, each recipe can take on its own unique characteristics. Some people swear by a recipe passed down through generations, while others may experiment with ingredients like cinnamon, nutmeg, or even Greek yogurt. This particular banana bread recipe, however, stands out for its use of sour cream—a component that enhances both flavor and texture.
Why Sour Cream Makes This Banana Bread the Best
The addition of sour cream to banana bread serves several key purposes. Traditionally, sour cream is used in baking to provide moisture and density, and it achieves both in this recipe beautifully. When added to banana bread, sour cream ensures the loaf remains soft and moist, even after several days. This is especially important with banana bread, as it tends to dry out quickly without the right balance of ingredients.
Sour cream also adds a subtle tang that helps to balance the sweetness of the ripe bananas. This mild tartness enhances the overall flavor of the bread, making each bite satisfying and complex. The sour cream reacts with the baking soda to help the bread rise and become light and airy, without sacrificing its rich, dense texture. The result is a perfect loaf that slices easily and has an irresistible melt-in-your-mouth quality.
Health Benefits of Banana Bread with Sour Cream
While banana bread is a delicious treat, many may think of it as a decadent indulgence. However, when made with ingredients like ripe bananas, this recipe offers several health benefits as well. Bananas are an excellent source of potassium, a mineral that helps regulate blood pressure and supports muscle function. They are also rich in vitamin B6, which is essential for metabolism and brain health.
Sour cream, often considered an indulgent ingredient, can be part of a balanced diet when used in moderation. It provides healthy fats and contains small amounts of protein and calcium. Additionally, sour cream is a good source of probiotics, which support gut health. If you choose to use low-fat or Greek-style sour cream, you can further reduce the calorie content without compromising on texture or flavor.
Banana bread is also a versatile recipe, allowing for substitutions to meet various dietary needs. For example, you can use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour to increase fiber content. To make the recipe vegan, you could swap the eggs for flax eggs and the butter for plant-based margarine or coconut oil. The nuts are optional, but adding walnuts or pecans provides healthy fats and protein, enhancing the bread’s nutritional profile.
Making the Perfect Banana Bread with Sour Cream
To get the best results, it’s important to use ripe bananas in this recipe. Overripe bananas, with their dark spots and soft texture, are the sweetest and most flavorful. These bananas will give the bread its natural sweetness and contribute to the bread’s moistness. If you have bananas that are too ripe for eating but not yet ready for baking, you can freeze them until you’re ready to make this banana bread.
Another key to a great loaf of banana bread is not overmixing the batter. Overmixing can result in a dense, rubbery texture. Mix just until the dry ingredients are incorporated into the wet mixture. This ensures the bread will rise properly and stay soft. It’s also important to bake the banana bread at the right temperature. A preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) ensures that the bread bakes evenly without burning the edges.
Perfecting the Texture and Flavor
One of the reasons this banana bread stands out is its texture. Thanks to the sour cream, the bread is incredibly moist, yet light and fluffy. The addition of walnuts or pecans gives the bread an enjoyable crunch and depth of flavor. You can also experiment by adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to add a warm, aromatic touch that complements the sweetness of the bananas.
For an even richer banana bread experience, try serving it warm with a dollop of butter or a drizzle of honey. It also makes for a wonderful base for a dessert spread, topped with whipped cream, chocolate chips, or fresh fruit. Whether you choose to enjoy it with a cup of coffee or a glass of milk, this banana bread with sour cream will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.
Conclusion
Banana bread is a beloved classic, and this recipe takes it to the next level by incorporating sour cream, resulting in a moist, flavorful, and indulgent treat. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is foolproof and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. The combination of ripe bananas and tangy sour cream makes this banana bread more than just a snack; it’s a comforting, melt-in-your-mouth experience that pairs perfectly with a cozy afternoon. Give it a try, and you’ll see why it’s one of the best banana bread recipes out there.