Moist and Delicious Sour Cream Banana Bread: A Simple Recipe
This recipe delivers a supremely moist and flavorful banana bread, thanks to the addition of sour cream. Sour cream adds a delightful tang and incredible moisture, resulting in a bread that's tender and keeps well. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe is designed to be easy to follow, using ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed: The riper, the better! Overripe bananas will give the bread the most intense banana flavor.
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened: Softened butter ensures easy mixing and a smooth batter.
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar: Adjust to your sweetness preference.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: This is the secret ingredient for extra moistness!
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
- 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add richness.
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the structure for the bread.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: The leavening agent for a light and airy texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
- Optional: 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans: Adds texture and a nutty flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Follow these simple steps for a perfectly baked banana bread every time!
1. Prep the Bananas and Butter:
Mash your ripe bananas in a large bowl. In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This step incorporates air into the batter, contributing to a lighter texture.
2. Combine Wet Ingredients:
Add the sour cream and vanilla extract to the creamed butter and sugar mixture. Beat until well combined. Then, whisk in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
3. Add Dry Ingredients Gradually:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay. Overmixing can lead to a tough bread.
4. Fold in Optional Nuts (if using):
Gently fold in your choice of nuts if you're adding them.
5. Bake to Perfection:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x5 inch loaf pan. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Cool and Enjoy:
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Sour Cream Banana Bread:
- Room temperature ingredients: Using room temperature ingredients ensures even mixing and a better texture.
- Don't overmix the batter: Overmixing develops gluten, resulting in a tough bread.
- Check for doneness: Start checking for doneness around 50 minutes to avoid overbaking.
- Storage: Store leftover banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
This sour cream banana bread recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Its moist texture and delicious flavor make it perfect for any occasion. Enjoy baking!
