Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This banana bread stands out due to its perfect balance of moisture and banana flavor. The use of ripe bananas ensures a rich, sweet flavor, while sour cream adds to the bread’s tender texture. It’s a one-bowl recipe that doesn’t require any fancy tools, making it both easy and satisfying to prepare. Whether you prefer it for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, this banana bread will surely become a household favorite.

Ingredients

1 1/4 cups mashed ripe bananas (about 3-4 bananas)
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup brown sugar (optional)
2 large eggs (room temperature)
1/2 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted and cooled)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease or line a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
Mash the ripe bananas in a separate bowl until smooth, leaving some small chunks for texture.
In another large bowl, mix together granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, sour cream, melted butter, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Stir the flour mixture into the wet ingredients, just until combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the banana bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 8-10 slices
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 50-60 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Variations

Chocolate Chip Banana Bread: Stir in 1/2 cup of chocolate chips to the batter for a sweet twist.
Nutty Banana Bread: Add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for extra texture and flavor.
Vegan Banana Bread: Replace the eggs with flax eggs and use plant-based yogurt and butter substitutes.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store banana bread at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it in plastic wrap or foil and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy banana bread warm, reheat slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in the oven at 300°F for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

How ripe should my bananas be for banana bread?

The riper, the better! Look for bananas with plenty of brown spots for the sweetest and most flavorful bread.

Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen bananas. Just thaw them and drain any excess liquid before mashing.

Can I use a different type of sugar?

Yes, you can swap the granulated sugar with brown sugar or coconut sugar for a different flavor profile.

How can I make my banana bread more moist?

The addition of sour cream or Greek yogurt helps keep the bread moist. You can also add a tablespoon of milk if you prefer.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can double the recipe and bake it in two loaf pans or a larger pan. Just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly.

How do I know when banana bread is done?

When a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, it’s done.

Can I add spices to the banana bread?

Yes! Cinnamon, nutmeg, or allspice can be added to enhance the flavor. About 1 teaspoon of cinnamon works well.

Can I make banana bread without an egg?

Yes, you can use flax eggs as an egg substitute. To make one flax egg, mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water and let it sit for a few minutes.

Can I use a loaf pan of a different size?

Yes, but be mindful of the baking time. A larger or smaller pan might affect how long the bread needs to bake.

Why did my banana bread sink in the middle?

This may happen if the batter was overmixed or if the bread wasn’t baked long enough. Be sure to test with a toothpick to check doneness.

Conclusion

This banana bread recipe is simple, quick, and yields a deliciously moist loaf with a perfect balance of banana flavor. Whether you’re using up overripe bananas or just craving a tasty treat, this banana bread will hit the spot every time. With endless variation options and easy storage, it’s a versatile and timeless recipe to keep on hand. Enjoy a slice for breakfast or as a snack—it’s sure to be a hit with everyone!

Best Banana Bread Recipe