Banana Bread Recipe
Simply the perfect Banana Bread recipe. Moist, quick and easy to make with a soft, tender crumb. Truly the best Banana Bread I’ve ever had and our favorite way to use up ripe bananas! This recipe is great for breakfast, snacks, or dessert, making it a versatile choice for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This Banana Bread recipe comes together in just about 10 minutes of prep time.
- Moist Texture: The combination of ripe bananas and sour cream ensures a moist loaf that stays fresh longer.
- Customizable: Feel free to add nuts, chocolate chips, or spices to suit your taste.
- Perfectly Sweet: With the right amount of sugar, this bread strikes a balance between sweet and savory.
- Ripe Bananas Rescue: It’s an excellent way to use overripe bananas that might otherwise go to waste.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the delightful process of making your Banana Bread, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make baking a breeze.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Nonstick cooking spray or butter
- Loaf pan (8½ x 4½ inch)
- Mixing bowls
- Potato masher or fork
- Whisk
- Spatula
- Cooling rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Loaf pan: The right size ensures even baking and helps shape the bread perfectly.
- Potato masher: Makes mashing bananas easy, allowing for some texture in the bread.
- Whisk: Ensures all ingredients are well combined for a uniform batter.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3 to 4 ripe bananas (mashed should be about 1 ¼ cups)
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar (can use a combination of brown sugar)
– 2 large eggs
– 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted and cooled)
– 1/3 cup sour cream (plain Greek yogurt can be used instead)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
How to Make Banana Bread Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat oven to 350°F. Spray with nonstick cooking spray or grease and flour the bottom and sides of an 8½ x 4½ inch loaf pan. You can also butter the pan and sprinkle it with sugar or a combination of sugar and cinnamon. Set aside.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together:
1. Flour
2. Baking soda
3. Salt
Step 3: Prepare Bananas
In a large bowl, mash the bananas using a potato masher or fork. It’s okay if there are small chunks remaining; it doesn’t have to be completely smooth.
Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
Whisk in the following ingredients:
1. Sugar
2. Eggs
3. Melted butter
4. Sour cream
5. Vanilla extract
Step 5: Combine Mixtures
Gently stir in the flour mixture until just combined. Transfer to the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
Step 6: Bake
Bake for 50 to 60 minutes until an inserted toothpick comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. If the top starts browning too quickly, tent it with foil for the last 10 minutes.
Step 7: Cool Down
Let bread cool on a cooling rack in the loaf pan for about 15 to 20 minutes. Invert the loaf pan carefully to remove banana bread. Let it cool on the rack for another hour before slicing and serving.
Now you can enjoy your delicious homemade Banana Bread!
How to Serve Banana Bread Recipe
Banana bread is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you prefer it plain or with added toppings, it makes for a delicious breakfast or snack option.
Toasted Banana Bread
- Toasting banana bread enhances its flavor and adds a delightful crunch. Spread a pat of butter on warm slices for extra richness.
With Nut Butter
- Pair slices of banana bread with almond or peanut butter. This combination provides a satisfying mix of flavors and a protein boost.
Served with Fresh Fruit
- Enjoy banana bread alongside fresh fruit like strawberries, blueberries, or sliced bananas. The freshness complements the sweetness of the bread perfectly.
Topped with Cream Cheese
- Spread cream cheese on your banana bread for a creamy texture that balances the sweetness. Add a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flavor.
As a Dessert
- Transform your banana bread into dessert by serving it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Drizzle some chocolate sauce over the top for indulgence.
With Coffee or Tea
- Enjoy a slice of banana bread with your morning coffee or afternoon tea. The warm flavors pair beautifully, making it a comforting choice any time of day.
How to Perfect Banana Bread Recipe
Making the perfect banana bread is all about paying attention to detail and using quality ingredients. Here are some tips to elevate your baking game.
- Use ripe bananas: Overripe bananas will give your bread optimal sweetness and moisture.
- Don’t overmix: Mix just until combined to avoid dense banana bread; it’s okay if there are small lumps.
- Check for doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
- Allow to cool properly: Letting the bread rest helps improve its texture and crumb.
- Experiment with add-ins: Nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit can enhance flavor and texture.
- Store correctly: Keep banana bread wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature for up to four days, or freeze for longer storage.
Best Side Dishes for Banana Bread Recipe
Banana bread pairs wonderfully with numerous side dishes that complement its flavors. Here are some delicious options:
- Greek Yogurt: A dollop of Greek yogurt adds creaminess and tanginess, balancing the sweetness of the banana bread.
- Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad provides freshness and contrast; consider using seasonal fruits for variety.
- Oatmeal: A warm bowl of oatmeal makes for a hearty breakfast alongside slices of banana bread.
- Smoothie: A refreshing smoothie can be an energizing side; try blending banana, spinach, and almond milk for health benefits.
- Scrambled Eggs: The savory taste of scrambled eggs offers a nice contrast to sweet banana bread; they make for an excellent breakfast combo.
- Chia Seed Pudding: This nutritious pudding adds texture and is packed with fiber; serve it chilled beside your banana slices.
- Cottage Cheese: A serving of cottage cheese topped with berries brings protein and pairs well with sweet flavors.
- Granola Bars: Crunchy granola bars provide an additional snack option that works well alongside soft banana bread slices.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making your Banana Bread Recipe, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results.
- Using unripe bananas: Ripe bananas provide the sweetness and moisture essential for a delicious banana bread. Always choose bananas that have brown spots for the best flavor.
- Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to dense bread. Stir the ingredients just until combined for a light texture.
- Not measuring ingredients correctly: Accurate measurements are crucial. Use a kitchen scale or proper measuring cups for the best results.
- Skipping the cooling time: Allowing your banana bread to cool in the pan prevents it from becoming soggy. Wait at least 15 minutes before removing it from the pan.
- Baking at an incorrect temperature: An oven that’s too hot or too cold can affect baking time and texture. Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer if needed.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store banana bread in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- You can also wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
Freezing Banana Bread Recipe
- Wrap slices of banana bread individually in plastic wrap for up to 3 months.
- Place wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag or container to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating Banana Bread Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat for about 15-20 seconds per slice on medium power.
- Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for a few minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about this Banana Bread Recipe that may help you along the way.
What makes this Banana Bread Recipe so moist?
The combination of ripe bananas, melted butter, and sour cream contributes to its moist texture, making each slice incredibly tender.
Can I use frozen bananas for this Banana Bread Recipe?
Yes! Just thaw them and drain excess liquid before mashing. Frozen bananas can work just as well as fresh ones.
How can I customize my Banana Bread Recipe?
You can add nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit to enhance flavor. Feel free to experiment with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg!
What should I do if my Banana Bread is too dense?
If your banana bread turns out dense, try using less flour or avoiding overmixing the batter next time.
How do I know when my Banana Bread is done baking?
Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. If it comes out wet, continue baking for another few minutes.
Final Thoughts
This Banana Bread Recipe is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile! It’s perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. You can customize it with various mix-ins to suit your taste. Give it a try and enjoy the delightful aroma of freshly baked banana bread wafting through your home!
Banana Bread Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the ultimate Banana Bread Recipe that combines the rich sweetness of ripe bananas with a moist, tender crumb. Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert, this quick and easy recipe is your go-to method for using overripe bananas.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 to 4 ripe bananas (mashed)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
- 1/3 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8½ x 4½ inch loaf pan.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
- In a large bowl, mash the bananas until smooth but slightly chunky.
- Mix in sugar, eggs, melted butter, sour cream, and vanilla until combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir gently until just mixed.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Allow cooling in the pan for about 15 minutes before transferring it to a cooling rack.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (60g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
