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 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon baking soda; Pinch of salt; 3/4 cup sugar; 1 large egg, beaten; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

Highlighted under: Soft Collection

This Banana Bread with Sour Cream Recipe offers a moist and flavorful twist on the classic banana bread, perfect for breakfast or a snack.

Created by

Briony Ashcroft

Last updated on 2026-01-03T07:21:35.198Z

This banana bread is enhanced with sour cream, which adds a delightful richness and moisture to the loaf. Perfectly sweet and easy to make, it’s a family favorite!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Moist and tender crumb thanks to sour cream
Deliciously sweet with ripe bananas
Simple ingredients that you likely already have
Perfect for breakfast or as an afternoon snack

      

The Magic of Sour Cream

Sour cream is a secret ingredient that elevates this banana bread to a new level of moistness and flavor. When added to baked goods, sour cream enhances the overall texture, making it softer and more tender. It also contributes a subtle tang that beautifully balances the sweetness of the ripe bananas, resulting in a delightful taste experience.

In addition to its flavor-enhancing qualities, sour cream also provides a rich source of moisture. This is particularly beneficial in recipes like banana bread, where achieving the perfect texture can be a challenge. The addition of sour cream ensures the bread remains soft and flavorful, even days after baking.

Perfectly Ripe Bananas

The key to a delicious banana bread lies in the bananas themselves. Choosing perfectly ripe bananas is crucial; look for bananas that are heavily speckled with brown spots. These bananas are sweeter and have a more intense banana flavor, making them ideal for baking. Overripe bananas are not only easier to mash but also contribute to the overall sweetness of the bread.

If you find yourself with too many ripe bananas, don’t fret! You can easily freeze them for later use. Just peel and place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to bake, simply thaw them at room temperature or in the microwave, and they'll be ready to mash into your batter!

Serving Suggestions

Banana bread is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. For a simple treat, serve slices plain or toasted with a pat of butter. If you're feeling indulgent, consider adding a spread of cream cheese or nut butter for added richness and flavor. A sprinkle of cinnamon or a drizzle of honey can also elevate your banana bread experience.

This banana bread makes an excellent addition to breakfast or brunch tables. Pair it with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a comforting start to your day. It also makes for a delightful snack to enjoy during the afternoon slump, providing a boost of energy and satisfaction.

Ingredients

For the Banana Bread

3 ripe bananas, mashed
1/2 cup sour cream
1/3 cup melted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking soda
Pinch of salt
3/4 cup sugar
1 large egg, beaten
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

Make sure to use very ripe bananas for the best flavor!

Steps to Make 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, mix together the mashed bananas, sour cream, melted butter, and vanilla extract.

Add Sugar and Egg

Stir in the sugar and beaten egg until well combined.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, stirring until just combined.

Bake

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

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

Enjoy your homemade banana bread with a pat of butter or as is!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider mixing in chopped nuts or chocolate chips into the batter.

Storage Tips

To keep your banana bread fresh for longer, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. This will help retain its moisture and prevent it from drying out. If you live in a particularly humid environment, consider refrigerating the bread to prolong its shelf life.

For those who want to enjoy banana bread at a later date, freezing is an excellent option. Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or toast directly from the freezer for a quick treat.

Variations to Try

While this banana bread recipe is delicious as is, you can easily customize it to suit your taste. Consider adding mix-ins such as chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit for added texture and flavor. Walnuts or pecans provide a delightful crunch, while chocolate chips add a touch of decadence.

For a healthier twist, you could substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour, or use a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup in place of granulated sugar. These variations can make your banana bread not only tasty but also a bit more nutritious.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?

Yes, thaw them and drain any excess moisture before mashing.

→ How should I store leftover banana bread?

Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store at room temperature for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze banana bread?

Absolutely! Wrap it well in plastic wrap and then in foil to freeze for up to 3 months.

→ What can I substitute for sour cream?

You can use plain yogurt or buttermilk as a substitute.