Banana Sour Cream Bread is a classic comfort food that delivers the perfect balance of moist texture and rich flavor. The sour cream adds a delightful creaminess, elevating the traditional banana bread recipe. The bananas provide natural sweetness, making each bite utterly satisfying.
This bread is incredibly easy to make and requires only a few ingredients that you likely have in your pantry. It’s perfect for breakfast, as a midday snack, or even as a dessert to enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home.
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
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2 ripe bananas, mashed
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1 cup sour cream
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1/2 cup butter, softened
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1 cup white sugar
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2 eggs
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1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
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1 teaspoon baking soda
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1/4 teaspoon salt
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions:
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
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In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
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Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and mashed bananas.
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In a separate bowl, mix the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, alternating with the sour cream, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients.
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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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Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 65 minutes | Total Time: 75 minutes
Kcal: 245 kcal | Servings: 12 slices
The Secret Ingredient: Sour Cream
What sets this banana bread apart from traditional versions is the addition of sour cream. Sour cream might seem like an unusual ingredient for banana bread at first, but its impact is undeniable. When incorporated into baked goods, sour cream contributes a subtle richness, moistness, and tang that elevates the overall flavor. In this recipe, the sour cream works in perfect harmony with the ripe bananas, creating a bread that is both light yet dense, and perfectly moist from the first bite to the last. It helps create a velvety crumb structure, which is key to ensuring the bread stays moist for longer.
Sour cream has a higher fat content compared to regular milk or yogurt, which means it adds more richness and depth to the bread. This richness also contributes to the bread’s slightly thicker texture, making each slice satisfying and indulgent. The combination of the bananas’ natural sweetness with the tangy, creamy sour cream results in a delightful contrast that enhances the bread’s overall flavor profile. You’ll notice that the sour cream doesn’t overpower the bananas, but rather complements them, providing a subtle layer of complexity.
The Versatility of Banana Sour Cream Bread
One of the best things about banana sour cream bread is its versatility. While the recipe is simple enough to make with just a few ingredients, there are endless ways to customize the bread to suit your tastes. The classic version, with just bananas and sour cream, is already a treat in itself, but there are many delicious variations you can try to further enhance the bread.
For instance, you can incorporate chocolate chips, walnuts, or pecans into the batter for a bit of added crunch and flavor. The rich, melty chocolate chips or toasted nuts pair wonderfully with the moist, sweet banana bread, giving each bite a delightful texture. Alternatively, if you prefer a healthier version of this recipe, you can experiment with whole wheat flour or substitute some of the sugar with honey or maple syrup for a more natural sweetness.
Another great way to modify this recipe is to add spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a dash of vanilla extract. These spices infuse the bread with warmth and complexity, making it even more fragrant and aromatic. The versatility of banana sour cream bread means you can tailor it to match different dietary preferences, occasions, or simply the flavor profile you’re in the mood for.
Banana bread can also be enjoyed in various ways. While it’s delicious straight out of the oven, you can toast slices for a delightful breakfast or snack. Add a smear of butter or cream cheese on top, or even a drizzle of honey or maple syrup for a decadent treat. This banana sour cream bread is perfect for pairing with your favorite hot beverage, whether it’s a morning coffee, an afternoon tea, or a cold glass of milk.
Why Banana Sour Cream Bread Is a Must-Try
There’s no shortage of banana bread recipes out there, but this Banana Sour Cream Bread stands out for its exceptional texture and flavor. The addition of sour cream not only helps keep the bread incredibly moist but also brings a subtle tang that balances the natural sweetness of the ripe bananas. It’s the perfect combination of lightness and richness, making it a treat that will satisfy your sweet tooth without feeling too heavy.
What’s more, this banana sour cream bread is incredibly easy to make. The recipe requires minimal effort but delivers a result that looks and tastes like something from a bakery. It’s perfect for beginners and seasoned bakers alike, and the simple ingredients make it a go-to choice whenever you have ripe bananas that need to be used up.
Whether you’re baking for your family, preparing a treat for a special occasion, or simply craving a comforting snack, this banana sour cream bread is sure to be a hit. Its rich texture and flavor make it suitable for all ages, and it can be served at any time of day be it for breakfast, as an afternoon snack, or even as a dessert.
Tips for Perfect Banana Sour Cream Bread
While this recipe is straightforward, there are a few tips that will help you achieve the best possible results.
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Use Ripe Bananas: The key to the best banana bread is ripe bananas. Overripe bananas are the sweetest and most flavorful, and they’ll add more moisture to the bread. In fact, the riper the bananas, the better, as they will break down easily and impart a richer, more intense banana flavor.
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Don’t Overmix the Batter: When preparing the banana bread batter, avoid overmixing. Stir the ingredients just until combined to ensure the bread comes out light and tender. Overmixing can lead to dense, heavy bread.
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Check for Doneness: Since ovens can vary, keep an eye on the bread as it bakes. Start checking the bread with a toothpick around 60 minutes, but it may take up to 65 minutes depending on your oven. The toothpick should come out clean when inserted into the center of the bread.
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Cool Before Slicing: Allow the banana sour cream bread to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This cooling period helps the bread set and ensures that it slices properly without falling apart.
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Store Properly: To keep the bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it for longer, you can freeze slices for up to 3 months. Just be sure to wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before freezing.
Conclusion:
Banana Sour Cream Bread is a delightful twist on the traditional banana bread recipe that everyone will love. The addition of sour cream creates a moist, flavorful loaf with a perfect balance of sweetness and tang. Whether you enjoy it fresh from the oven, toasted, or with a spread of butter, this bread will quickly become a favorite in your household. It’s a must-try recipe for anyone who appreciates a simple, delicious, and comforting treat.
Its versatility makes it easy to personalize to your tastes, whether you’re adding nuts, chocolate chips, or spices. With its easy preparation and the ability to adjust for different dietary preferences, banana sour cream bread is sure to become a regular in your baking rotation. So, the next time you find yourself with ripe bananas, reach for this recipe and enjoy a slice of heaven.