Banana Bread with Sour Cream Recipe

Name: Banana Bread with Sour Cream Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 1 loaf
Ingredients: 3 ripe bananas, mashed; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

Highlighted under: Oven Meals

I love baking banana bread, and this sour cream recipe has taken my baking to a whole new level. The creamy addition keeps the bread moist, making each slice melt in your mouth. I’ve experimented with various methods over the years, and this one consistently yields the perfect balance of sweetness and richness. Every time I pull a loaf out of the oven, the rich aroma fills my kitchen with warmth. Pair it with a pat of butter or enjoy it plain, it’s simply irresistible!

Created by

Honor Blackwell

Last updated on 2026-01-06T11:14:34.685Z

My journey with banana bread began years ago, but adding sour cream has transformed it into a family favorite. I discovered that the acidity in sour cream reacts with the baking soda, creating a lighter and fluffier texture. It’s amazing how such a simple ingredient can make such a significant impact, and I often find myself making this recipe on weekends to share with loved ones.

One specific tip I can share is to use overripe bananas. They not only have more natural sweetness but also mash easily, ensuring an even mix in the batter. I've tried using different types of bananas, and I find that the riper, the better!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Moist and fluffy texture from the sour cream
Rich banana flavor that satisfies any sweet tooth
Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a snack

      

Understanding the Role of Each Ingredient

The ingredients in this banana bread recipe are chosen for their specific roles in achieving the perfect texture and flavor. For instance, sour cream not only adds moisture but also contributes a slight tanginess that balances the sweetness of ripe bananas. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the salt level better, ensuring the bread isn’t overly salty. Similarly, the use of ripe bananas is essential; their natural sugars enhance the bread’s sweetness while providing a rich banana flavor that is utterly satisfying.

Eggs play a crucial role in binding the ingredients together while also adding richness. Be sure to use large eggs for consistent results. Mixing the wet ingredients until just combined is key to avoiding overmixing, which can lead to a dense loaf. Note that different brands of flour may absorb moisture differently, so the final batter should be somewhat thick but still pourable. If it seems too dry, adding a tablespoon of water or milk can help. This attention to detail in your ingredients will set your banana bread apart.

Perfecting Your Baking Technique

The baking time for this banana bread can vary depending on your oven and the size of your loaf pan. To ensure even baking, I recommend using a standard 9x5-inch loaf pan. During the last 5-10 minutes of baking, keep an eye on the bread; it should be golden-brown with a slightly domed top. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached. If the top browns too quickly, you can lightly cover it with aluminum foil to prevent burning while allowing the center to finish baking.

After removing the bread from the oven, let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes; this helps with structure stabilization. Transferring it too soon may lead the loaf to collapse. Once cooled slightly, placing it on a wire rack is essential to prevent it from getting soggy on the bottom. I often make this recipe the night before I plan to serve it, allowing the flavors to meld even further while it cools completely. This step enhances the taste and makes slicing much easier.

Ingredients

Ingredients:

For the Banana Bread

3 ripe bananas, mashed
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

Instructions

Instructions:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and sugar until creamy. Add the eggs, sour cream, mashed bananas, and vanilla, mixing until just combined.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing gently until no flour streaks remain.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 55-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider adding chopped walnuts or chocolate chips to the batter before baking.

Storing and Freezing

Banana bread is incredibly versatile when it comes to storage. Once the bread has cooled completely, you can wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it moist. Stored at room temperature, it will stay fresh for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing it; simply slice the loaf before wrapping it well in plastic wrap, followed by foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be kept frozen for up to three months, ensuring you have delicious banana bread at the ready anytime.

When you're ready to enjoy your frozen banana bread, removal does require some planning ahead. Let the bread thaw in the refrigerator overnight, or for a quicker solution, you can microwave individual slices on medium power for about 10-15 seconds. Just be cautious not to overdo it, as this can cause the bread to dry out or become rubbery.

Serving Suggestions

This banana bread is delightful on its own but can be elevated with a few simple additions. A smear of your favorite butter or even cream cheese can add a rich, creamy dimension. Another idea is to toast slices before serving; this can unlock a beautiful golden crust that complements the soft interior perfectly. For a more decadent experience, try adding a drizzle of honey or maple syrup on top.

If you're feeling adventurous, you can also incorporate mix-ins to customize your bread further. Chocolate chips, walnuts, or even coconut flakes work beautifully with the base recipe. Keep in mind that if you add these extras, reduce the sugar slightly to maintain balance. I often find a half cup of dark chocolate chips adds just the right touch of indulgence without overwhelming the banana flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, but the texture may be denser. You might want to use half whole wheat and half all-purpose for a lighter result.

→ How long can I store banana bread?

Banana bread can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days, or it can be frozen for up to 3 months.

→ Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute sour cream with a non-dairy yogurt or applesauce.

→ What can I use instead of bananas?

You can substitute with applesauce or pumpkin puree, but the flavor and texture will be different.