Banana Bread Recipe
Simply the perfect Banana Bread recipe. Moist, quick, and easy to make with a soft, tender crumb, this banana bread is truly the best I’ve ever had. It’s our favorite way to use up ripe bananas! Whether for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, this banana bread fits any occasion perfectly.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just about 10 minutes of prep time.
- Deliciously Moist: The combination of ripe bananas and sour cream ensures that each slice is moist and flavorful.
- Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to mix in nuts or chocolate chips for an added twist!
- Perfect for Ripe Bananas: This recipe is an excellent way to use overripe bananas that might otherwise go to waste.
- Great for Sharing: With 12 servings, it’s perfect to share with family and friends during gatherings.
Tools and Preparation
To make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential. Here are some key tools you’ll need for this banana bread recipe.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Loaf pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Potato masher or fork
- Spatula
- Cooling rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Loaf pan: The right size ensures even baking and helps maintain the shape of your banana bread.
- Mixing bowls: These allow you to separate dry and wet ingredients efficiently.
- Potato masher: Perfect for mashing bananas quickly while leaving some texture.
Ingredients
Here are the ingredients needed for this delicious Banana Bread recipe:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 to 4 ripe bananas (mashed should be about 1 ¼ cups)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar (can use a combination of brown sugar)
- 2 large eggs
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted and cooled)
- 1/3 cup sour cream (plain Greek yogurt can be used instead)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
How to Make Banana Bread Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Spray with nonstick cooking spray or grease and flour the bottom and sides of an 8½ x 4½ inch loaf pan. You can also butter the pan and sprinkle it with sugar or a mixture of sugar and cinnamon. Set aside.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt until well mixed.
Step 3: Mash the Bananas
In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas using a potato masher, fork, or mixer. It’s okay if there are some small chunks; they add texture!
Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients
Whisk in the granulated sugar, eggs, melted butter, sour cream, and vanilla extract into the mashed bananas until well combined.
Step 5: Mix Dry Ingredients into Wet Mixture
Gently add the flour mixture into the wet ingredients. Stir just until combined. Transfer this mixture into your prepared loaf pan and smooth out the top with a spatula.
Step 6: Bake Your Banana Bread
Bake in your preheated oven for about 50 to 60 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. If it browns too quickly on top, cover it loosely with foil during the last ten minutes.
Step 7: Cool Before Serving
Let your banana bread cool on a cooling rack in its pan for about 15 to 20 minutes. Then carefully invert the loaf pan to remove it from the pan. Allow it to cool completely on the rack for another hour before slicing and serving.
Enjoy every bite of this delicious banana bread!
How to Serve Banana Bread Recipe
Banana bread is a delicious treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, these suggestions will enhance your experience.
With Butter
- Spread a generous amount of softened butter on warm slices for a classic taste.
Toasted with Cinnamon Sugar
- Toast slices and sprinkle with a mixture of cinnamon and sugar for added sweetness and crunch.
Topped with Nut Butter
- Enjoy banana bread smeared with almond or peanut butter for a protein-packed snack.
Served with Fresh Fruit
- Pair slices with berries or banana slices to add freshness and color to your plate.
Accompanied by Yogurt
- Serve with a dollop of plain yogurt or Greek yogurt for creaminess and tang.
As French Toast
- Dip slices in an egg mixture and fry them up for a tasty twist on traditional French toast.

How to Perfect Banana Bread Recipe
Achieving the perfect banana bread involves some simple techniques. These tips will help ensure that your banana bread turns out moist and flavorful every time.
- Use overripe bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be.
- Don’t overmix: Mix the batter just until combined to keep the texture light and fluffy.
- Check doneness wisely: Use a toothpick to test if it’s done; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- Cool properly: Allow the bread to cool in the pan before transferring to a wire rack to avoid sogginess.
- Store correctly: Wrap leftovers tightly and store at room temperature or freeze for longer freshness.
- Experiment with add-ins: Try adding nuts, chocolate chips, or spices like nutmeg for extra flavor variations.
Best Side Dishes for Banana Bread Recipe
Pairing side dishes with banana bread can elevate your meal experience. Here are some delightful options that complement its sweet flavor perfectly.
- Fresh Berries: Strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries add brightness and tartness.
- Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruits for a satisfying contrast.
- Scrambled Eggs: Serve alongside fluffy scrambled eggs for a balanced breakfast.
- Cheese Platter: Soft cheeses like cream cheese or ricotta can enhance the flavors beautifully.
- Honey Drizzle: A drizzle of honey adds an extra layer of sweetness when served on top.
- Chai Latte: Enjoying banana bread with a spiced chai latte makes for a warm pairing.
- Chopped Nuts: Serve alongside mixed nuts for added crunch and healthy fats.
- Coconut Flakes: Sprinkle toasted coconut flakes over slices for a tropical twist.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making banana bread can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some mistakes to watch out for.
- Using unripe bananas: Using bananas that are not fully ripe will result in a less sweet and flavorful bread. Always opt for overripe bananas with brown spots for the best flavor.
- Overmixing the batter: Mixing the batter too much can lead to dense banana bread. Stir just until the ingredients are combined for a light texture.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately: Incorrect measurements can throw off your recipe. Use a kitchen scale or proper measuring cups for accuracy.
- Skipping the cooling time: Cutting into the banana bread too early can result in a gummy texture. Allow it to cool properly before slicing.
- Not preheating the oven: Baking in an unpreheated oven can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven before placing the bread inside.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store banana bread in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- You can also wrap it tightly in plastic wrap before placing it in a container.
Freezing Banana Bread Recipe
- Wrap slices or whole loaves in plastic wrap and then foil, ensuring no air escapes.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating Banana Bread Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on high for about 20-30 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop: Place slices on a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about the banana bread recipe that you might find helpful.
What can I add to my Banana Bread Recipe?
You can customize your banana bread by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits like raisins or cranberries.
How do I know when my Banana Bread is done?
The banana bread is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached.
Can I make this Banana Bread Recipe dairy-free?
Yes! You can substitute unsalted butter with coconut oil or use dairy-free yogurt instead of sour cream.
What is the best way to ripen bananas quickly for this Banana Bread Recipe?
Place unripe bananas in a brown paper bag at room temperature. This traps ethylene gas and speeds up ripening.
Can I use frozen bananas in my Banana Bread Recipe?
Absolutely! Just thaw them first and drain any excess liquid before mashing them into your batter.
Final Thoughts
This banana bread recipe is truly delicious and versatile, making it perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips. Give it a try and enjoy the comforting aroma of freshly baked banana bread filling your home!

Banana Bread
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the ultimate comfort of homemade banana bread with this easy and delicious recipe. Bursting with flavor, this moist banana bread is perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. Made with overripe bananas and sour cream, each slice offers a soft, tender crumb that’s simply irresistible. Customize it with nuts or chocolate chips for an extra treat! This recipe yields 12 servings, making it ideal for sharing during family gatherings or cozy brunches.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 to 4 ripe bananas (mashed)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
- 1/3 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease an 8½ x 4½ inch loaf pan.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
- In a separate large bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth but slightly chunky.
- Mix in the sugar, eggs, melted butter, sour cream, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Gradually stir in the dry ingredients until just mixed; avoid overmixing.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for about 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool in the pan for 15-20 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (60g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg