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; 1/3 cup melted butter; 1 cup sugar; 1 egg, beaten; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or chocolate chips (optional)

Highlighted under: Daily Kitchen

I love making this Banana Bread with Sour Cream because it always turns out incredibly moist and flavorful. The addition of sour cream not only enhances the texture but also adds a slight tanginess that balances the sweetness of the bananas. It’s a simple recipe that comes together quickly and is perfect for using overripe bananas. I can often find myself enjoying a slice with my morning coffee or as a delightful afternoon snack. This bread is truly a family favorite, and I can't wait for you to try it!

Created by

Elara Kensington

Last updated on 2026-01-06T14:17:34.985Z

When I first experimented with adding sour cream to banana bread, I wasn't sure how it would turn out. To my surprise, it created a rich, velvety texture that elevated the classic recipe. My friends and family have raved about it ever since. I always make sure to use very ripe bananas, as they provide the best flavor and sweetness for the bread.

One of my favorite tips when making this banana bread is to incorporate chopped nuts or chocolate chips. They not only add a delightful crunch but also enhance the overall taste. Whether you’re making it for breakfast or dessert, this banana bread is sure to impress anyone who takes a bite!

Reasons You'll Love This Recipe
Incredibly moist texture thanks to sour cream
Touch of tanginess that complements the sweetness
Quick and simple recipe perfect for all skill levels

Understanding the Ingredients

The key to achieving a moist and tender banana bread lies in using ripe bananas. Look for bananas with plenty of brown spots, as they offer the sweetest flavor and an ideal consistency for mashing. The starches in overripe bananas break down into sugars, amplifying the natural sweetness of your bread, which is complemented beautifully by the tangy sour cream.

Sour cream is a crucial component in this recipe, not just for moisture, but also for adding richness. Its acidity interacts with baking soda, which helps to aerate the batter, giving your banana bread a light texture. If you're out of sour cream, you can substitute it with plain Greek yogurt or even buttermilk; just keep an eye on your batter's consistency.

Baking Tips for Success

When mixing the dry ingredients, be careful not to overmix once you combine them with the wet ingredients. Stir until just combined; this helps to avoid dense banana bread. A few lumps are perfectly fine — this creates a light, airy texture. If you're concerned about gluten development, using a light hand with a spatula will help you achieve the best results.

Ensure your oven has preheated adequately to 350°F (175°C) before placing your loaf pan inside. You can check if the bread is done by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean with a few moist crumbs. If it's still wet, give it an additional 5 to 10 minutes, but keep an eye on it to prevent overbaking, which can dry the bread out.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start making your delicious banana bread:

Banana Bread Ingredients

3 ripe bananas, mashed
1/2 cup sour cream
1/3 cup melted butter
1 cup sugar
1 egg, beaten
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup chopped walnuts or chocolate chips (optional)

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let's move on to the next steps!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your 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 mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, sour cream, melted butter, sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.

Add Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the baking soda, baking powder, salt, and flour. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined.

Fold in Nuts or Chocolate Chips

If desired, fold in the chopped walnuts or chocolate chips for added flavor and texture.

Bake the Bread

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

Cool and Serve

Once baked, let the banana bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!

Enjoy your delicious banana bread as a snack or dessert!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter. You can also experiment with different types of nuts or dried fruits to customize your loaf.

Storing and Serving

To preserve the moistness of your banana bread, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it at room temperature. It can last up to four days on the counter. For longer storage, consider freezing individual slices. Just allow them to cool completely, wrap them securely in freezer-safe bags or foil, and they should keep well for about three months.

For a delightful afternoon treat, try serving slices with a spread of cream cheese or butter. You can also toast the bread lightly to add a new layer of flavor and texture. For an indulgent twist, top with a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of powdered sugar just before serving. Pair it with your favorite coffee or tea for a cozy snack.

Variations and Add-ins

This banana bread recipe is versatile, allowing you to customize it with your favorite flavors. For an extra fruity touch, consider adding a half cup of shredded coconut or a handful of blueberries. If you're a chocolate lover, using chocolate chips is not just recommended; you can also try swirling in some cocoa powder for a rich chocolate banana bread variation.

If you want to reduce sugar, you can experiment with using honey or maple syrup as a sweetener, but note that this might slightly alter the moisture content. Additionally, substituting half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour can add a nutty flavor while increasing the bread's nutritional value. Just be sure to monitor the baking time, as using different flours may affect the texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?

Yes, just thaw the bananas before mashing and incorporating them into the mix.

→ How can I store leftover banana bread?

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

→ Can I freeze banana bread?

Absolutely! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

→ What can I substitute for sour cream?

You can substitute sour cream with plain yogurt or buttermilk for a similar effect.