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; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

Highlighted under: Sweet Baking Recipes

I absolutely love baking banana bread, and this sour cream version has quickly become my go-to. The sour cream adds a delightful moisture that makes each slice incredibly tender and rich. Plus, the combination of ripe bananas and a slight tang from the sour cream elevates the flavor to a whole new level. With just a handful of ingredients, this recipe is not only easy to whip up but also perfect for using overripe bananas that are often overlooked. Trust me, once you try this version, you'll never go back!

Created by

Jessica Brown

Last updated on 2026-01-06T16:25:34.676Z

As I was experimenting with banana bread recipes, I discovered that incorporating sour cream truly transforms the texture and flavor profile. One day, I ended up with overly ripe bananas, and to avoid waste, I whipped up this quick recipe. The result was an incredibly moist loaf that my family couldn't get enough of.

I learned that the sour cream not only enhances the flavor but helps the bread rise beautifully, creating a perfect crumb. Pro tip: for an added touch, I now sprinkle in some chopped nuts or chocolate chips for a delightful crunch in each bite!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Incredibly moist thanks to the addition of sour cream
Rich banana flavor with a hint of tanginess
Simple recipe perfect for using up overripe bananas

Mastering Banana Bread Texture

One of the secrets to achieving the perfect moist banana bread lies in the bananas themselves. When selecting bananas, aim for those that are heavily speckled with brown spots, as they will be sweeter and more flavorful. The ripeness of the bananas directly impacts the bread's moisture and overall texture. Be sure to mash them until smooth, with no large chunks, to ensure even distribution throughout the batter.

The role of sour cream is equally important in this recipe. It not only adds moisture but also a subtle tang that uniquely complements the sweetness of the bananas. If you find yourself without sour cream, you can substitute it with plain yogurt or even buttermilk, but do keep in mind that this might slightly alter the texture and flavor profile.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

A common problem when baking banana bread is an overly dense or gummy texture. This can happen if the batter is overmixed, so it's crucial to combine the wet and dry ingredients only until you see no dry flour left. If you're concerned about your bread rising, make sure your baking soda and baking powder are fresh, as expired leavening agents can lead to flat, dense bread.

Additionally, keep an eye on baking time. Ovens can vary significantly, so it’s wise to start checking for doneness at the 50-minute mark. Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs clinging to it. If you encounter uneven baking, rotate the loaf halfway through the cooking time to promote uniform heat distribution.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

To maximize the freshness of your banana bread, ensure it cools completely before wrapping it in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This will help retain moisture and prevent it from drying out. If you plan to enjoy your banana bread over the course of several days, consider slicing it and storing individual pieces in airtight containers to make it easy to grab a slice at a time.

For serving, this banana bread pairs beautifully with a spread of cream cheese or a drizzle of honey for an extra touch of sweetness. You could also experiment by adding nuts or chocolate chips to the batter for richer flavor variations. If you're feeling adventurous, warming a slice slightly in the microwave can mimic the fresh-out-of-the-oven experience, making it an irresistible snack any time of day.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients before you start baking:

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
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

Once you have everything ready, you're almost set to bake!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a delicious banana bread:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs, then add the mashed bananas, sour cream, and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.

Combine Dry Ingredients

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

Combine Mixtures

Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!

Bake the Bread

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

Cool and Serve

Allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Enjoy your delicious homemade banana bread!

Pro Tips

For best results, use very ripe bananas for maximum flavor and natural sweetness. You can also add nuts or chocolate chips for extra texture!

Flavor Variations

While the classic banana and sour cream combo is undeniably delicious, don't be afraid to get creative! Try folding in a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture and crunch. If chocolate is more your style, adding semi-sweet chocolate chips can create a rich and indulgent treat. Alternatively, a teaspoon of cinnamon can elevate the flavor, adding a warm spice that complements the sweetness of the bananas beautifully.

For a tropical twist, consider incorporating shredded coconut or using a bit of pineapple puree in place of some of the bananas. Each variation brings a new dimension to your banana bread, ensuring that you can enjoy a slightly different experience each time you bake.

Make-Ahead Tips

If you're planning ahead, banana bread can be a great make-ahead option. The batter can be prepared and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to keep it tightly covered to prevent drying out. When you're ready to bake, simply pour the batter into the prepared pan and follow the usual baking instructions, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time as needed.

Additionally, baked banana bread freezes exceptionally well. Slice it into portions and wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, placing them in a freezer-safe bag. It can be stored for up to three months. To enjoy, just thaw at room temperature or warm it in the microwave for a few seconds—a perfect last-minute breakfast or snack!

Questions About Recipes

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

Yes, you can substitute up to half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added nutrition.

→ How should I store banana bread?

Store banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate it for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze banana bread?

Absolutely! Wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before freezing. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

→ Is it necessary to use sour cream?

While it adds moisture and flavor, you can replace it with plain yogurt or buttermilk if needed.