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 cup sour cream; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)

Highlighted under: Baked Meals

I absolutely love baking banana bread, and this sour cream version is my favorite. The sour cream makes the bread unbelievably moist, while the ripe bananas provide natural sweetness. I often grab a few overripe bananas and whip this up for breakfast or an afternoon snack. With a sprinkle of cinnamon and a dash of vanilla, this recipe is a delightful way to enjoy a classic comfort food. Trust me, once you try this, regular banana bread will feel like it's missing something essential!

Created by

Odette Fairbanks

Last updated on 2026-01-06T16:06:34.836Z

Trying out different variations of banana bread has become a fun experiment for me. I originally stumbled onto this sour cream recipe during one of my baking sessions, and I was pleasantly surprised by the results. The bread turns out so rich and flavorful, and the texture is nice and fluffy!

I’ve found that using overripe bananas gives the best flavor, and combining that with sour cream elevates the moisture level. One tip I've learned is to always measure your flour properly to avoid a dense loaf. It truly makes all the difference in the final result!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Incredibly moist texture thanks to the sour cream
Bursting with sweet banana flavor, perfect for breakfast
Quick and easy to make with minimal ingredients

The Role of Sour Cream

One of the standout features of this banana bread recipe is the addition of sour cream. Not only does it enhance the moisture content, but the acidity of the sour cream also helps to activate the baking soda, which contributes to the bread's rise. This results in a light and fluffy texture that contrasts beautifully with the dense bananas. Opting for full-fat sour cream will give you the richest flavor, but you can use a low-fat version to lighten the recipe without significant compromise on texture.

In this recipe, the sour cream balances the sweetness of the overripe bananas. The delightful tanginess it adds elevates the overall flavor profile, making each bite more complex. If you are looking for alternatives, plain yogurt can serve as an effective substitute, providing a similar moisture level while maintaining the bread's tender crumb.

Baking Tips for Perfect Banana Bread

When mixing your banana bread batter, it's essential to avoid overmixing once you combine the wet and dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf, robbing it of the lightness we all cherish. Instead, stir gently until just combined, maintaining some small lumps of flour for an ideal textured bread. Additionally, using a spatula to fold the batter can help gently incorporate the ingredients without excessive agitation.

If you want to test for doneness, look for golden-brown edges and a springy top. Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached. Remember that ovens can vary in temperature, so keep an eye on your bread during the last 10-15 minutes of baking. If you find your bread is browning too quickly, lightly tent it with foil to prevent burning.

Ingredients

Banana Bread Ingredients

3 ripe bananas, mashed
1 cup sour cream
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)

Directions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.

Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the mashed bananas, sour cream, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix well until combined.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.

Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

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

Bake the Bread

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for about 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 it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch of flavor, consider adding walnuts or chocolate chips to the batter. Store any leftovers tightly wrapped at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This banana bread stores exceptionally well, making it a great make-ahead option. To keep it fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store it at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to extend its shelf life, consider freezing individual slices. Simply wrap each slice in plastic, place them in a freezer bag, and freeze for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy, let the slices thaw at room temperature or pop them in the toaster for a warm treat.

For a delightful breakfast or snack, I love to jazz up this banana bread by serving it toasted with a smear of cream cheese or butter. You can also slice it and layer it with peanut butter for a protein-packed option. Feel free to elevate your serving by adding fresh fruit or a drizzle of honey for an even more indulgent experience.

Flavor Variations

While this classic banana bread is delicious as is, you can easily customize it to suit your taste. Try adding in chocolate chips or chopped nuts for extra richness and texture. Walnuts or pecans complement the banana flavor beautifully, while dark chocolate provides a decadent touch. For a hint of tropical flair, consider folding in shredded coconut or diced pineapple.

If you're feeling adventurous, experiment with different spices such as nutmeg or ginger alongside the cinnamon. A tablespoon of orange zest can also add a refreshing citrus note that brightens up the flavors. Just remember to adjust the sugar levels slightly when adding sweeter ingredients like chocolate or nuts to maintain the perfect balance.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?

Yes, frozen bananas work well! Just thaw them and drain any excess liquid before mashing.

→ What can I substitute for sour cream?

You can use Greek yogurt or buttermilk as a substitute for sour cream in this recipe.

→ How do I store the banana bread?

Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.

→ Can I make this banana bread gluten-free?

Yes, you can use a gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe gluten-free. Just ensure it's measured correctly.