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 sugar; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

Highlighted under: Easy Desserts Inspiration

I love baking, and there's something incredibly comforting about making a loaf of banana bread with sour cream. The rich, moist texture provided by the sour cream elevates this classic recipe to a whole new level, making it a favorite in my household. Not only does it taste delicious, but it also fills the kitchen with an irresistible aroma as it bakes. Whenever I have overripe bananas, I can't resist turning them into this delightful treat that we can enjoy for breakfast or as an afternoon snack.

Created by

Nicola Fairchild

Last updated on 2026-01-05T18:45:34.420Z

When I first tried adding sour cream to my banana bread, I was blown away by the results. It created a moist, rich texture that I had never achieved before. The tangy flavor of the sour cream balances beautifully with the natural sweetness of the bananas, resulting in a loaf that is both delightful and satisfying. I love sharing this banana bread with friends and family, and I often get requests for the recipe!

Another tip I've picked up is to use very ripe bananas for the best flavor. The bananas should have plenty of brown spots on the peel—this is when they’re the sweetest and perfect for baking. This recipe is not just about baking; it’s about creating something wonderful to share, and I always feel a sense of joy when I serve this delicious banana bread.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Incredibly moist and rich texture thanks to sour cream
Perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess
Simple and quick to prepare with minimal ingredients

Perfecting Your Banana Bread

The beauty of banana bread lies in its simplicity, but small details can elevate it significantly. For instance, using overripe bananas not only enhances the sweetness but also contributes to the moisture level. Aim for bananas with brown spots or even fully brown skins. You can also mash them with a fork or potato masher, but for an ultra-smooth texture, consider using a food processor. Just remember to blend until smooth, avoiding any lumps for the best consistency.

Temperature control is crucial when baking banana bread. An oven thermometer can be a handy tool to ensure your oven is at the correct temperature. If it's too hot, the bread may burn on the outside before it cooks through; too cold, and you risk a dense loaf. Bake until the top is golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean from the center—this usually takes about 50 to 65 minutes, depending on your oven. Keep an eye out for slight cracks forming on top, which indicates a perfectly baked loaf.

Flavor Variations and Add-Ins

While the classic banana bread flavor is delightful, consider customizing your loaf by adding spices or mix-ins. A teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg can add warmth and depth to the overall flavor. You might also experiment with a handful of chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or even dried fruits like cranberries for additional texture and sweetness. Just remember to adjust the flour slightly if you're adding heavier mix-ins to maintain the texture.

If you’ve got dietary restrictions or preferences, there are a few simple substitutions. For a dairy-free option, replace the sour cream with coconut yogurt or a nut-based yogurt. You could also make it gluten-free by swapping the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, making sure it contains xanthan gum for optimal structure. Finally, if you're looking to reduce sugar, using mashed applesauce or honey can not only lower the sugar content but also keep the bread moist.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious banana bread:

Ingredients

3 ripe bananas, mashed
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup sugar
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

Once you have all your ingredients, you’ll be amazed at how quickly you can bring this recipe together!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your banana bread:

Prepare the Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, sour cream, sugar, and softened butter. Mix well.

Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs and vanilla extract until the mixture is well combined.

Mix Dry Ingredients

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

Bake the Bread

Pour the batter into a greased 9x5 inch loaf pan. Bake in the preheated oven for about 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 this delicious banana bread warm or at room temperature!

Pro Tips

For added texture, consider folding in some walnuts or chocolate chips into the batter before baking!

Storage Tips

This banana bread can be stored at room temperature for up to four days. Ensure it is kept in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out. Alternatively, if you want to preserve the loaf for longer, wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil allows it to be frozen for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or leave it at room temperature for a few hours.

If you find yourself with leftover banana bread, it also makes a tasty base for other treats. You can slice it and toast it for breakfast, or spread a bit of cream cheese or peanut butter on top for a satisfying snack. It’s wonderful in French toast, too; just dip slices in an egg mixture and pan-fry until golden for a decadent twist.

Common Troubleshooting

If your banana bread turns out too dense or gummy, it's likely due to overmixing after adding the flour. The batter should be mixed just until incorporated; a few lumps are perfectly fine. Conversely, if the bread sinks in the middle, it could be that too much leavening agent was used, or it was not baked long enough. Always check doneness with a toothpick inserted into the center—the toothpick should come out clean.

Another common mistake is not allowing the bread to cool before slicing. It's tempting to dig in immediately, but cooling for at least 10 minutes helps the structure set, making slicing easier without crumbling. If you see cracked tops, that's a sign of a well-baked loaf; don't worry, it adds character and texture to your finished product.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?

Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before mashing them.

→ How do I store leftover banana bread?

Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

→ Can this recipe be made as muffins instead of a loaf?

Absolutely! Pour the batter into muffin tins and bake for about 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

→ What can I do if I don't have sour cream?

You can substitute with plain yogurt or buttermilk for a similar effect!