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; 3/4 cup sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped (optional)

Highlighted under: Creative Baking Favorites

I absolutely love baking banana bread, and this sour cream version is one of my favorites. The addition of sour cream makes the bread incredibly moist and adds a subtle tang that balances the sweetness of the bananas beautifully. Every time I make this recipe, my kitchen fills with the warm aroma of baking bananas and spices, creating a cozy atmosphere. Whether it’s for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, this banana bread never disappoints and is always a hit with my family and friends.

Created by

Cassandra Reed

Last updated on 2026-01-05T17:29:34.413Z

When I first tried adding sour cream to my banana bread recipe, I was amazed by the results. The bread turned out so moist that it practically melted in my mouth. Since then, I've never looked back. The sour cream brings out the banana flavor while keeping the texture wonderfully soft.

One tip I learned along the way is to use overripe bananas for the best flavor. The more spots on your bananas, the sweeter and richer the flavor will be. Make sure to mash them well for an even distribution in the dough, and you’ll end up with a fantastic loaf every time!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Moist and tender texture that stays fresh for days
Delicious balance of sweetness and tang from the sour cream
Perfect for breakfast, snack time, or dessert

      

Understanding the Ingredients

Each ingredient in this banana bread recipe plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect texture and flavor. The ripe bananas not only sweeten the bread naturally but also contribute to its moistness. For the best results, make sure your bananas are speckled and overripe; this will enhance their sweetness and make them easier to mash. Sour cream adds richness and a hint of tang that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness, while the unsalted butter provides a rich, buttery flavor that elevates the finished loaf.

If you're watching your fat intake or need a dairy-free option, you can substitute the sour cream with Greek yogurt or a plant-based yogurt. Additionally, using coconut oil instead of butter can impart a subtle flavor and is an excellent alternative for those looking to avoid dairy. Just remember that each substitution may alter the final taste slightly, but they can yield deliciously unique results in your banana bread.

Perfecting Baking Techniques

Baking banana bread might seem straightforward, but a few techniques can elevate your loaf. When mixing the wet and dry ingredients, be careful not to overmix! Gently stir until you see no dry flour; this helps maintain the bread's tenderness. If you prefer a more complex flavor profile, consider adding a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry mixture. These spices complement the sweetness and add depth to your banana bread.

To ensure even baking, make sure to rotate the loaf pan halfway through baking—this helps avoid any hot spots in your oven. Look out for the telltale signs that your bread is done: a golden-brown top, a slightly domed shape, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. This careful attention will reward you with a perfectly baked loaf every time.

Storing and Serving Tips

Once your banana bread has cooled, it’s essential to store it properly to maintain its moisture. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil, and it will stay fresh on the countertop for up to four days. Alternatively, you can refrigerate it for a week or even freeze slices. To thaw, simply leave it on the counter for a couple of hours, or use the microwave for a quick method—just do so in short increments to avoid drying it out.

For serving, this banana bread can be enjoyed plain, but if you're looking to elevate it, consider spreading a thin layer of cream cheese or butter on top. It also pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert. For a twist, try adding chocolate chips or dried fruit like cranberries to the batter—this will add a fun variation and introduce new flavors while keeping with the comforting core of banana bread.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Banana Bread

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

Steps to Make Banana Bread

Prepare the Oven and Pan

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the mashed bananas, sour cream, softened butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix well until smooth.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. If desired, fold in the chopped walnuts.

Bake the Bread

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for about 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Enjoy

Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter or using brown sugar instead of white for a richer taste.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find that your banana bread is too dense, it could be due to overmixing the batter or using overly ripe bananas that were too moist. To remedy this, use a lighter hand when combining your wet and dry ingredients and consider reducing the number of bananas slightly. On the other hand, if your bread comes out dry, it might have been in the oven too long—always check for doneness a few minutes before the suggested time to prevent overbaking.

Another common issue is a sunken loaf. This can happen if the batter was too thick or the pan was underfilled. To avoid this, ensure you've properly measured your ingredients and only fill the pan about two-thirds full. Additionally, inserting a wooden skewer into the center can help gauge what might be happening in the middle of the bread as it bakes.

Variations to Try

If you're feeling adventurous, there are numerous flavor variations you can try with this banana bread recipe. For example, swirling in some peanut butter or Nutella before baking can create delicious chocolate or nutty ribbons that add a lovely surprise in every slice. You might also consider mixing in spices like cardamom or a splash of rum extract for added complexity.

For those looking for a healthy twist, you can replace a portion of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or almond flour. This not only increases the nutritional content but also introduces a nutty flavor. Just remember, whole wheat flour may require a slight increase in moisture, so adjust the sour cream or bananas accordingly.

Scaling the Recipe

Should you need to scale this banana bread recipe up or down, it's quite easy to do. For a smaller loaf, simply halve the ingredients and use a 7.5x3.5-inch pan, reducing the baking time by about 10-15 minutes. Conversely, if you're doubling the recipe for a larger gathering, this batter can be divided between two 9x5-inch loaf pans. Just keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time, as they may finish at slightly different rates.

When scaling up, consider how much space you have in your oven. It's important not to overcrowd the oven, as this can lead to uneven baking. Aim to bake the loaves on the same rack but allow for some airflow around each pan for optimal results.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them and drain any excess liquid before mashing.

→ How can I store the banana bread?

Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it at room temperature for up to 4 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Can I add other ingredients?

Absolutely! Feel free to add chocolate chips, dried fruits, or spices to customize this banana bread to your liking.

→ Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, and it should work well.