Banana Bread Recipe – Super moist banana bread with the best banana flavor. Moist and delicious, this easy recipe is perfect for a quick and satisfying treat!
If you like homemade treats that are both delicious and easy to make, then this Banana Bread recipe is perfect for you. It’s quick to whip up and uses simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen, like ripe bananas, butter, and flour. You don’t need any special equipment or hard-to-find items, making it a great choice for a hassle-free baking experience.
I often make this bread for my kids on busy days because it’s a healthier option than store-bought snacks. Using overripe bananas adds natural sweetness, and you can make it even better by adding nuts or choosing whole wheat flour. It’s a great way to make a nutritious treat that everyone will love.
For serving, you can enjoy banana bread on its own or with a spread of butter for extra flavor. It also pairs well with a hot cup of coffee or tea, making it a great choice for breakfast or a cozy afternoon snack. This recipe is sure to become a family favorite!
Why you will love this Banana Bread?
You’ll love this Banana Bread because it’s incredibly easy to make and yields a deliciously moist and flavorful loaf. The combination of ripe bananas and creamy sour cream creates a tender texture that melts in your mouth. Whether you enjoy it plain, with a spread of butter, or with added chocolate chips or nuts, this banana bread is versatile and satisfying.
Its comforting aroma and rich taste make it a perfect choice for breakfast, a snack, or a sweet treat any time of day. Plus, it’s a great way to use up overripe bananas and fill your home with the inviting smell of freshly baked goodness.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup salted butter (1 ½ sticks), room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup bananas, mashed (about 2-3 ripe bananas)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon table salt
- 1/2 cup sour cream
How to make Banana Bread
Step 1:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan, or line it with parchment paper.
Step 2:
In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream the room-temperature butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.
Step 3:
Beat in the mashed bananas, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Step 4:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and table salt.
Step 5:
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter.
Step 6:
Gently fold in the sour cream until fully incorporated. The sour cream adds moisture and richness to the banana bread.
Step 7:
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly.
Step 8:
Bake in the preheated oven for 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top browns too quickly, cover with aluminum foil during the last 15 minutes of baking.
Step 9:
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.
Optional Add-Ins:
- Nuts: Stir in 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
- Chocolate Chips: Add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips for a sweet twist.
- Spices: A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can add a warm, aromatic flavor.
What to serve with Banana Bread
Banana bread is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of accompaniments. My favorite way to enjoy it is with a generous spread of butter or cream cheese, which adds richness and a delightful tang.
For a lighter option, try serving it with fresh fruit like berries or sliced apples, offering a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the bread.
If you’re in the mood for something more indulgent, drizzle honey or maple syrup over your slice, or enjoy it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a truly decadent treat. Banana bread also pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or tea, making it perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack.
How to store
To store banana bread, first allow it to cool completely to prevent moisture buildup. Once cooled, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh. You can store it at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. If you want to keep it longer, place the wrapped bread in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for up to a week.
Banana Bread Variations
- Chocolate Chip Banana Bread: Add a handful of chocolate chips to the batter for a sweet, melty twist. The combination of rich chocolate and sweet bananas makes this version a crowd-pleaser, especially for kids.
- Nutty Banana Bread: Incorporate chopped nuts like walnuts, pecans, or almonds into the batter. The nuts add a satisfying crunch and a toasty flavor that complements the soft, moist bread.
- Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread: Create a cinnamon swirl by mixing cinnamon and sugar and layering it in the middle of the batter before baking. This adds a warm, spiced flavor and a beautiful swirl effect when sliced.
- Blueberry Banana Bread: Fold fresh or frozen blueberries into the batter for a burst of fruity flavor. The tartness of the blueberries balances the sweetness of the bananas, making for a refreshing variation.
- Coconut Banana Bread: Add shredded coconut to the batter for a tropical twist. The coconut adds a subtle sweetness and a chewy texture, making this version perfect for summer or whenever you’re craving something a little different.
FAQ
How ripe should bananas be for banana bread?
- Ideally, bananas should be very ripe, with brown or black spots. Overripe bananas are sweeter and more flavorful, which makes for a better banana bread.
Can I make banana bread without eggs?
- Yes, you can substitute eggs with a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water, let sit for 5 minutes) or applesauce (1/4 cup per egg) to make the bread vegan.
How can I make banana bread moister?
- To ensure a moist banana bread, use ripe bananas and add ingredients like sour cream or yogurt. Don’t overmix the batter, as this can make the bread dense.
What type of flour is best for banana bread?
- All-purpose flour is commonly used, but you can also use whole wheat flour or a combination for a heartier texture. Adjust the baking time slightly if using whole wheat flour.
How can I prevent banana bread from sticking to the pan?
- Grease your pan well or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking. You can also use a non-stick spray or a silicone baking mat.
Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to banana bread?
- Absolutely! Adding nuts, chocolate chips, or other mix-ins like dried fruit can enhance the flavor and texture of your banana bread. Just fold them in gently at the end.
How long should banana bread cool before slicing?
- Allow banana bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. This helps it set and makes slicing easier.
Can I double the banana bread recipe?
- Yes, you can double the recipe to make two loaves. Just make sure to adjust the baking time if needed, and use two separate pans for even baking.
Conclusion
For a delicious and comforting treat, banana bread is always a great choice. Whether you stick with the classic recipe or try one of the fun variations, this easy-to-make bread is perfect for breakfast, a snack, or dessert. Enjoy the rich, moist texture and wonderful aroma of homemade banana bread any time of day!
Banana Bread Recipe
Course: DessertCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy8
servings10
minutes1
hour1
hour10
minutesBanana Bread Recipe – Super moist banana bread with the best banana flavor. Moist and delicious, this easy recipe is perfect for a quick and satisfying treat!
Ingredients
1/2 cup salted butter (1 ½ sticks), room temperature
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup bananas, mashed (about 2-3 ripe bananas)
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon table salt
1/2 cup sour cream
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan, or line it with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream the room-temperature butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the mashed bananas, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and table salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter.
- Gently fold in the sour cream until fully incorporated. The sour cream adds moisture and richness to the banana bread.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top browns too quickly, cover with aluminum foil during the last 15 minutes of baking.
- 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
- Stir in 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.