Sour Cream Banana Bread Recipe

Introduction

Indulge in the rich, moist, and irresistibly flavorful world of banana bread, elevated with the luscious addition of sour cream. This classic quick bread, celebrated for its tender crumb and balanced sweetness, has been a beloved staple in kitchens for generations. Whether you’re seeking a comforting breakfast, a satisfying snack, or a decadent dessert, this Sour Cream Banana Bread recipe from Love With Recipes is sure to become a go-to in your culinary repertoire. Its perfect harmony of bananas, sour cream, walnuts, and moist crumb makes it a versatile treat that appeals to all ages. The process involves simple steps, yet yields a bakery-quality loaf that promises to impress family and friends alike. Prepare to savor every bite of this delightful bread, crafted with love and passion for baking enthusiasts of all levels.

Time

Preparing this luscious Sour Cream Banana Bread requires a total of approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes, broken down into manageable phases. The hands-on prep time is around 20 minutes, during which you assemble ingredients, mash bananas, and mix the batter. The baking process takes about 55 minutes, during which the aroma of baked bananas and toasted walnuts will fill your kitchen, creating an inviting atmosphere. Allow an additional 5 minutes for cooling, ensuring the bread is perfectly set before slicing. Planning ahead with this timeline guarantees a fresh, warm loaf ready for serving at your preferred time.

Needed Equipment

• Standard 9 x 5-inch (23 x 13 cm) loaf pan—preferably non-stick or well-greased
• Mixing bowls—preferably a large one for the batter and smaller ones for prep work
• Electric hand or stand mixer—ideal for thoroughly blending wet ingredients
• Rubber spatula—useful for folding in bananas and walnuts gently
• Measuring cups and spoons—accurate measurement ensures consistency
• Fork or potato masher—used for effectively mashing bananas to the perfect consistency
• Cooling rack—allows excess heat to dissipate, preventing sogginess
• Kitchen scale (optional)—for precise measurement of ingredients, especially if you prefer weight-based accuracy
• Aluminum foil or plastic wrap—used for wrapping and storing the bread after cooling
• Baking sheet (optional)—to place under the loaf pan if you want to catch drips or prevent messes in the oven

Tags

#QuickBread, #BananaBread, #MoistBread, #BananaDessert, #NuttyBread, #FamilyRecipe, #BakingFromScratch, #HomemadeBread, #ComfortFood, #Breakfast, #Snack, #Dessert

Serving Size

This recipe yields approximately 12 generous slices of delicious Sour Cream Banana Bread, perfect for sharing with family, friends, or enjoying over multiple days. Each slice is approximately 1 inch thick, making it an ideal portion for a comforting breakfast, a sweet snack, or a light dessert. The size and richness of the loaf make it suitable for casual gatherings or special occasions.

Difficulty Level

Intermediate—While the steps involved in making this banana bread are straightforward, achieving the perfect moistness and rise requires attention to detail. Properly mixing ingredients, not over-mixing the batter, and monitoring baking time are essential. However, even novice bakers with basic kitchen skills can master this recipe with patience and careful measurement.

Allergen Information

Dietary Preference

This banana bread caters to those who prefer a vegetarian diet. It is not suitable for vegans due to the presence of eggs, butter, and dairy-based sour cream. For gluten-free diets, substitute all-purpose flour with a certified gluten-free blend. For nut allergies, omit walnuts or swap with allergy-friendly alternatives like sunflower seeds or coconut flakes.

Course

Breakfast, Snack, Dessert

Cuisine

American, Bakery Classics, Comfort Food

Ingredients

Ingredients in Table Format

Instructions

Step 1: Preparation and Preheating

Begin by setting your oven to preheat at 350°F (175°C). Proper preheating is essential for even baking and achieving a beautifully browned crust. While waiting for the oven to reach temperature, prepare your loaf pan by lightly greasing it with butter or non-stick spray. You may also dust it with a little flour or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later. Set aside the prepared pan and gather your ingredients to ensure a smooth workflow.

Step 2: Mash the Bananas

Take ripe bananas—those with brown spots or even overripe—for maximum sweetness and flavor. Using a fork or potato masher, mash the bananas until smooth but with some small chunks remaining for texture. The mash should be moist and slightly sticky, which will contribute to the bread’s moistness. Set aside the mashed bananas; they will be incorporated into the batter in the next steps.

Step 3: Cream Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, add the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Using an electric mixer on medium speed, beat until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and slightly pale in color. This process usually takes about 2 minutes. Proper creaming ensures that the sugar is well incorporated, which helps with aeration and rise of the bread. Scrape down the sides of the bowl periodically to ensure all ingredients are fully combined.

Step 4: Incorporate Bananas and Nuts

Gently fold in the mashed bananas using a spatula, taking care not to overmix. This step adds moisture and natural sweetness to the batter. Next, fold in the chopped walnuts, distributing them evenly throughout the mixture. Walnuts add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor, complementing the sweetness of the bananas and richness of the sour cream.

Step 5: Add Sour Cream and Dry Ingredients

Pour the sour cream into the wet mixture and gently fold to combine. The sour cream adds moisture, tanginess, and tenderness to the bread. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and baking soda. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding gently until just incorporated. Do not overmix, as this can lead to a dense loaf. The batter should be thick but spreadable.

Step 6: Prepare the Batter for Baking

Transfer the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Use a spatula to scrape the sides of the bowl and smooth the surface of the batter for an even rise. Gently tap the pan on the counter to release any air bubbles and settle the batter evenly.

Step 7: Baking

Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven on the middle rack. Bake for approximately 55 minutes. Start checking for doneness around the 50-minute mark by inserting a toothpick into the center of the loaf; it should come out clean or with moist crumbs. The top should be golden brown, and the bread will emit a fragrant banana aroma that signals readiness. If the top browns too quickly, tent it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning while the interior finishes baking.

Step 8: Cooling and Storage

Once baked, remove the loaf from the oven and place it on a cooling rack. Let it cool in the pan for about 5 minutes to allow the structure to set. Then, carefully lift the bread out of the pan and let it cool completely on the rack. For best results, wrap the cooled bread in aluminum foil or plastic wrap to retain moisture. Store at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer shelf life. To enjoy later, slice and reheat individual pieces in the microwave or toaster for a warm, comforting treat.

Preparation Tips

• Use very ripe bananas for maximum sweetness and flavor. The more brown spots, the better.
• Ensure butter is softened to aid in creaming; softened butter should be at room temperature, about 65°F (18°C).
• Do not overmix the batter after adding the dry ingredients; overmixing can lead to dense bread.
• For added flavor, sprinkle a few extra chopped walnuts on top before baking or swirl some cinnamon into the batter.
• Use a toothpick test to check for doneness—insert into the center and ensure it comes out clean or with moist crumbs.

Nutritional Information

Tips and Tricks

• Use bananas that are heavily speckled or overripe for natural sweetness and moistness.
• For a richer flavor, toast the walnuts lightly before folding into the batter.
• Experiment with mix-ins such as chocolate chips, dried fruit, or shredded coconut for variety.
• Ensure your oven temperature is accurate; use an oven thermometer if necessary.
• If the bread cracks on top, it’s a sign of overbaking; check earlier next time.
• Wrap leftover bread tightly to prevent it from drying out; it can be stored at room temperature or frozen for longer preservation.

Add-ons

• Chocolate Chips: Fold in ½ cup of semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for a chocolatey twist.
• Spices: Add ½ teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance the depth of flavor.
• Fruit: Mix in blueberries, chopped apples, or dried cranberries for additional texture and flavor.
• Glaze: Drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk for added sweetness.

Side Dishes

• Fresh Fruit: Serve slices with fresh berries or sliced strawberries for a bright contrast.
• Butter or Cream Cheese: Spread a little butter or cream cheese on warm slices for extra richness.
• Yogurt or Greek Yogurt: Pair with a dollop of yogurt for a creamy accompaniment.
• Ice Cream: For an indulgent dessert, serve a warm slice with vanilla ice cream and caramel sauce.

Improvements and Variations

• Vegan Version: Substitute eggs with flaxseed or chia seed gel, butter with coconut oil, and sour cream with plant-based yogurt or coconut cream.
• Gluten-Free: Replace all-purpose flour with a high-quality gluten-free baking blend, and consider adding xanthan gum for structure.
• Low Sugar: Reduce sugar to ½ cup and enhance flavor with spices or vanilla extract.
• Low Fat: Use applesauce or mashed avocado as a substitute for butter for a healthier twist.
• Enhanced Moisture: Incorporate grated zucchini or carrots for added moisture and nutrients.

Save and Store

To preserve freshness, once cooled, wrap the banana bread tightly in aluminum foil or store in an airtight container. It can be kept at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerated for up to a week. For longer storage, slice the loaf and freeze individual pieces in airtight containers or freezer bags, with parchment paper separating slices. Thaw at room temperature or reheat in the microwave for a warm treat.

FAQ

Can I make this banana bread vegan?

Yes, by substituting eggs with a flaxseed or chia seed mixture (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed or chia seed + 3 tablespoons water per egg), replacing butter with coconut oil or vegan margarine, and using plant-based sour cream or yogurt. Adjust baking times as needed, and ensure all ingredients are vegan-certified.

Can I use less sugar?

Absolutely. Reducing sugar to ½ cup will make the bread less sweet but still moist and flavorful. To compensate, consider adding spices like cinnamon or vanilla for enhanced aroma and taste.

How do I know when the banana bread is done?

Insert a toothpick or cake tester into the center of the loaf; it should come out clean or with moist crumbs attached. If batter clings to the toothpick, bake for an additional 5-10 minutes and check again.

Can I freeze the banana bread?

Yes, once cooled, slice the bread and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then store in an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To serve, thaw at room temperature or reheat slices in the microwave.

Conclusion

This Sour Cream Banana Bread from Love With Recipes exemplifies comfort, convenience, and culinary excellence. Its moist, tender crumb paired with the nutty crunch of walnuts creates a harmonious flavor profile that is both nostalgic and modern. Perfectly suited for breakfast tables, afternoon tea, or end-of-meal desserts, this bread promises to delight every palate. The straightforward preparation allows bakers of all levels to achieve bakery-quality results, making it a treasured addition to your baking repertoire. Remember, the key to perfect banana bread lies in ripe bananas, gentle mixing, and attentive baking. Share this recipe generously, and enjoy the warmth and joy it brings to your loved ones.

References

• King Arthur Baking Company. “Banana Bread.” KingArthurBaking.com.
• Williams Sonoma Test Kitchen. “The Best Banana Bread.” WilliamsSonoma.com.