Banana Loaf Bread Recipe with Sour Cream: A Perfectly Moist and Delicious Treat
Are you looking for a supremely moist and flavorful banana bread recipe? Look no further! This recipe uses sour cream to achieve the ultimate texture and adds a subtle tang that complements the sweetness of the bananas perfectly. Get ready to bake up a loaf that will disappear in a flash!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe is surprisingly easy, using ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. Gather these items before you begin:
- 1 ½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour: Provides the structure for your loaf.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: The leavening agent, crucial for a light and airy texture.
- ½ teaspoon baking powder: Works with the baking soda to create a perfect rise.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- ¾ cup (1 ½ sticks) unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and moisture.
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar: Sweetens the loaf beautifully.
- 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients and add richness.
- 1 cup (240ml) sour cream: The secret ingredient for extra moisture and tang!
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a warm, comforting aroma and flavor.
- 2 cups (approximately 3 medium) very ripe mashed bananas: The star of the show! The riper, the better the flavor.
Instructions for Baking the Perfect Loaf:
Follow these step-by-step instructions for a guaranteed delicious banana bread:
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x5 inch loaf pan. This prevents sticking and ensures easy removal.
Step 2: Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. This ensures even distribution throughout the batter.
Step 3: Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the sour cream and vanilla extract until well combined.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Step 5: Add Bananas
Gently fold in the mashed bananas until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 6: Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool and Enjoy
Let the banana bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!
Tips for Banana Bread Success:
- Use very ripe bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be.
- Don't overmix the batter: Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tough loaf.
- Check for doneness: Use a wooden skewer to test for doneness. If it comes out with wet batter, bake for a few more minutes.
- Cool completely before slicing: This allows the bread to set properly and prevents it from crumbling.
Variations:
- Add nuts: Chopped walnuts, pecans, or macadamia nuts add a delightful crunch.
- Add chocolate chips: Semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips add a decadent touch.
- Use different spices: A dash of cinnamon or nutmeg adds warmth and complexity.
This sour cream banana bread recipe is a surefire winner. Its moist texture and delightful flavor will make it a favorite in your household. Enjoy baking and sharing this delicious treat! Remember to share your baking adventures using #SourCreamBananaBread on social media!
