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: 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup sour cream; 2 cups mashed ripe bananas (about 4 medium bananas); 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Enjoy this moist and flavorful Banana Bread made with sour cream for an extra richness that's hard to resist.

Created by

Penelope Dawson

Last updated on 2026-01-02T02:49:08.525Z

This Banana Bread with Sour Cream is a beloved family recipe, passed down through generations. The addition of sour cream not only adds moisture but also enhances the flavor, making this bread a perfect treat for breakfast or an afternoon snack.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Incredibly moist and tender texture
Deliciously sweet with a hint of tang from sour cream
Perfect for using up overripe bananas
Easy to make with simple ingredients

      

The Secret to Moist Banana Bread

One of the key ingredients that sets this Banana Bread apart from others is sour cream. This creamy addition not only enhances the flavor but also contributes to a wonderfully moist texture. The acidity in sour cream reacts with the baking soda, helping the bread rise beautifully while keeping it tender. This is why this recipe stands out; you won’t find a dry bite in sight.

Moreover, using overripe bananas is essential for achieving that rich sweetness that everyone loves. The natural sugars in the bananas caramelize during baking, resulting in a rich flavor profile. Be sure to choose bananas with plenty of brown spots for the best results. If you have bananas that are just starting to brown, let them sit a bit longer for maximum sweetness.

Perfect Pairings for Banana Bread

Banana Bread is incredibly versatile, making it an excellent choice for various occasions. For breakfast, enjoy it warm with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey. This delightful treat pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or a glass of milk, making it a satisfying start to your day.

For a snack or dessert, consider adding toppings such as chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or a scoop of ice cream. These additions can elevate your banana bread to a new level, providing a delightful crunch or a creamy texture that complements the soft bread perfectly.

Storing and Freezing Banana Bread

If you have leftovers (though that’s unlikely!), storing your Banana Bread is simple. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze slices or the entire loaf. Just make sure to wrap it securely to prevent freezer burn.

When you're ready to enjoy your frozen banana bread, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature. You can also warm slices in the microwave or toaster oven for a comforting treat that tastes freshly baked.

Ingredients

Wet Ingredients

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup sour cream
2 cups mashed ripe bananas (about 4 medium bananas)

Dry Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)

Mix the wet and dry ingredients separately before combining them for the best results.

Instructions

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. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream, then mix in the mashed bananas.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon (if using).

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.

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

Allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!

Serve with butter or cream cheese for an extra treat.

Tips for Success

To ensure your banana bread turns out perfect every time, measure your flour correctly. Spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife instead of scooping it directly from the bag, which can lead to excessive flour and a dense loaf.

Also, be mindful of your mixing technique. Overmixing can lead to tough banana bread, so mix until just combined. It's okay if there are a few lumps; they will bake out during cooking.

Variations to Try

While the classic Banana Bread is a favorite, you can easily customize this recipe. Consider adding nuts like walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture, or mix in chocolate chips for a sweeter treat. You can also experiment with spices like nutmeg or cardamom to introduce new flavors.

For a healthier version, substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour, or try reducing the sugar slightly. Adding oats can also enhance the nutritional value without sacrificing taste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?

Yes, thawed frozen bananas work perfectly. Just make sure to drain any excess liquid.

→ How can I store leftover banana bread?

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

→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. The texture may vary slightly.

→ What can I use instead of sour cream?

You can substitute Greek yogurt or buttermilk for a similar result.