If you are looking for a warm, comforting treat that fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma, this Classic Banana Bread Recipe is exactly what you need. With its perfect balance of sweet, moist bananas and a tender crumb, this banana bread feels like a cozy hug in every bite. The recipe uses simple, everyday ingredients that come together flawlessly to create a loaf that is as delicious fresh from the oven as it is the next day. Whether you’re a baking novice or a seasoned pro, this recipe makes a delightful addition to your baking repertoire.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Classic Banana Bread Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, whether it’s enriching the texture, adding a hint of sweetness, or providing the perfect structure to your loaf. Here’s what you’ll need to get started:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and moisture for a tender crumb.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the bread and helps create a lovely golden crust.
- 2 large eggs: Bind ingredients together and contribute to the bread’s airy texture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses the loaf with warm and fragrant undertones.
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The backbone of the bread, providing structure and softness.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Essential for leavening and helping the bread rise just right.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Adds moisture and a subtle tang, keeping the bread incredibly soft.
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed: The star ingredient that lends natural sweetness and moisture.
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional): Adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor contrast.
How to Make Classic Banana Bread Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
First things first, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) and grease a 9 by 5-inch loaf pan generously. This preparatory step ensures that your bread bakes evenly and releases easily from the pan after baking.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
Next, beat the softened unsalted butter with the granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This process introduces air that helps create a tender texture. Then, add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to incorporate fully. Stir in the vanilla extract for that classic comforting aroma.
Step 3: Combine Your Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. This step evenly distributes the leavening agent and salt throughout the flour, which is essential for consistent texture and flavor in your bread.
Step 4: Bring Wet and Dry Ingredients Together
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet butter and sugar mixture, stirring just until combined. Be careful not to overmix here to keep the bread light and tender.
Step 5: Stir in Bananas, Sour Cream, and Walnuts
Now it’s time to fold in the ripe mashed bananas, which pack moisture and natural sweetness into every bite. Add sour cream to add a slight tang and extra softness, and if you like, fold in the optional walnuts for a crunchy surprise.
Step 6: Pour into Pan and Bake
Pour your batter into the greased loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Pop it into your preheated oven and bake for about 60 to 65 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached.
Step 7: Cool Before Slicing
Allow your loaf to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling prevents the bread from becoming soggy and makes slicing easier and neater.
How to Serve Classic Banana Bread Recipe
Garnishes
A slice of this Classic Banana Bread Recipe is perfection on its own, but you can elevate its charm with a few garnishes. A light spread of creamy butter or a drizzle of honey adds luxurious richness. For a fun twist, sprinkle a little cinnamon sugar on top before serving or add a dollop of whipped cream to make your snack feel like a special dessert.
Side Dishes
Pair your banana bread with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a comforting afternoon break. For breakfast, serve it alongside fresh fruit or a bowl of yogurt to balance the sweetness and keep things fresh and light. It also pairs wonderfully with nut butter spreads if you’re craving an extra protein kick.
Creative Ways to Present
Try turning your banana bread into a dessert stanÂdout by slicing it and using a toasted piece as a base for ice cream sandwiches. Or, get creative with layering slices between cream cheese frosting to build a quick banana bread cake. Even cubed and tossed with cinnamon sugar, then baked briefly, your leftover bread transforms into crunchy croutons perfect for ice cream or pudding toppings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap your cooled banana bread tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. Leftover bread stored at room temperature should stay moist and delicious for up to 3 days.
Freezing
This Classic Banana Bread Recipe freezes beautifully. Slice the loaf first, then place the slices in a freezer-safe bag with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. Frozen banana bread can last up to 3 months, making it perfect to have on hand for quick breakfasts or snacks.
Reheating
To enjoy your banana bread warm and fresh, reheat slices in a toaster oven or microwave for 15-20 seconds. This brings back that soft texture and enhances the aromas just like when it fresh from the oven.
FAQs
Can I use overripe bananas for this recipe?
Absolutely! Overripe bananas with dark spots are ideal as they are sweeter and softer, which makes your banana bread moist and flavorful.
What if I don’t have sour cream? Can I substitute it?
Yes, sour cream can be swapped with Greek yogurt or buttermilk in equal amounts without sacrificing texture or taste in your banana bread.
Do I have to add nuts? Can I leave them out?
Not at all! Walnuts add a nice crunch and flavor but leaving them out makes for a smooth, nut-free bread perfect for those with allergies or preferences.
How do I know when the banana bread is fully baked?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, your banana bread is ready.
Can I double this recipe for a larger batch?
You can double the ingredients and bake in two loaf pans or a larger pan, just be mindful of adjusting the baking time accordingly and checking for doneness regularly.
Final Thoughts
Nothing beats the joy of baking and sharing this Classic Banana Bread Recipe. It’s straightforward, packed with incredible flavors, and perfect for nearly any occasion. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself and your loved ones to a slice (or two!) of this timeless classic. I promise it will quickly become one of your favorite breads to bake and savor.
Print
Classic Banana Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 10 slices
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This classic banana bread recipe yields a moist, flavorful loaf perfect for breakfast or a comforting snack. Made with ripe bananas, sour cream, and optionally walnuts for added crunch, this easy-to-follow recipe produces a tender crumb and deliciously sweet taste.
Ingredients
Banana Bread Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan to ensure the bread does not stick.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, creating a smooth base for the batter.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Incorporate eggs one at a time into the creamed mixture, beating well after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract for added flavor.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening agents and seasoning.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gradually blend the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined to avoid overmixing that can make the bread tough.
- Add Sour Cream, Bananas, and Walnuts: Gently fold in the sour cream, mashed ripe bananas, and walnuts if using, which add moisture and texture to the bread.
- Pour Batter and Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the surface evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 60-65 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool Before Serving: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing to prevent crumbling.
Notes
- For extra moisture, ensure bananas are very ripe with brown spots.
- Walnuts are optional but add a nice crunch and flavor.
- Do not overmix the batter to keep the bread tender.
- Check doneness with a toothpick to avoid overbaking.
- Store leftover banana bread tightly wrapped at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
