Banana Banana Bread is an indulgent yet easy-to-make dessert that brings the sweet, rich flavor of ripe bananas to life in every slice. Its soft, moist texture and light, fluffy crumb make it an ideal snack or breakfast treat.
With its irresistible aroma filling the house as it bakes, this banana bread is perfect for anyone who loves the comforting flavors of homemade baked goods. Whether enjoyed with a cup of coffee or on its own, it’s a delightful way to use up overripe bananas and create something truly special.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
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1 teaspoon baking powder
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1/2 teaspoon baking soda
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1/2 cup butter, softened
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1 cup white sugar
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2 eggs
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4 ripe bananas, mashed
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1/4 cup sour cream
Directions:
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
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In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
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In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
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Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
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Stir in the mashed bananas and sour cream.
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Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
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Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it out evenly.
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Bake for 60 to 65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 65 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Kcal: 250 kcal | Servings: 8 servings
Why You Should Try This Recipe
Banana Banana Bread is a great way to reduce food waste by using ripe bananas that might otherwise be thrown away. Overripe bananas have a stronger flavor, making them the perfect base for banana bread. By using these bananas, you’ll get a loaf that is packed with rich, natural sweetness, which you might not get from fresh bananas. This recipe gives you a great reason to save those browning bananas and turn them into something special.
In addition to being a fantastic use for ripe bananas, this recipe is also customizable. You can add a variety of mix-ins like nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits to make the bread even more indulgent and flavorful. It’s one of those recipes that you can make your own and tailor to your preferences.
Tips for the Perfect Banana Banana Bread
To ensure your banana bread turns out perfectly every time, there are a few key tips to keep in mind. First, make sure your bananas are very ripe. Overripe bananas not only have a stronger flavor but also make the bread incredibly moist. The more brown spots on the bananas, the better!
Next, avoid overmixing the batter. Overmixing can lead to dense and chewy bread instead of the light, fluffy texture we all love. Mix the ingredients just until they come together to maintain that perfect crumb.
Another important tip is to properly measure your flour. Too much flour can make the bread dry, while too little can make it too gooey. For the most accurate results, spoon the flour into the measuring cup and level it off with a knife rather than scooping it directly from the bag. This ensures you’re not adding excess flour to the batter.
Lastly, always check the doneness of the bread by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the bread is ready to come out of the oven. If it comes out wet, continue baking for another 5-10 minutes and check again.
How to Store Banana Banana Bread
One of the best things about Banana Banana Bread is that it stays fresh for several days, making it a great option for meal prep or a snack throughout the week. Once the bread has cooled completely, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it fresh for longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Simply slice the bread before freezing so you can easily grab a slice whenever you need it. When you’re ready to enjoy a slice, just thaw it at room temperature or pop it in the microwave for a few seconds.
Banana Banana Bread Variations
While the classic Banana Banana Bread is delicious on its own, there are plenty of ways to make it your own. Here are a few fun variations:
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Chocolate Chip Banana Bread: Add 1 cup of chocolate chips to the batter for a rich, indulgent treat. The melty chocolate combined with the banana flavor is a match made in heaven.
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Nuts in Banana Bread: Walnuts, pecans, and almonds are great additions to banana bread. Stir in about 1/2 cup of your favorite nuts for added crunch and flavor.
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Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread: To take the flavor up a notch, add a cinnamon swirl to your bread. Combine 1 tablespoon of cinnamon and 1/4 cup of sugar and swirl it through the batter before baking for a sweet, spiced twist.
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Vegan Banana Bread: If you’re following a plant-based diet, it’s easy to make this recipe vegan by substituting the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) and using a plant-based butter alternative. Ensure the sour cream is non-dairy, and you’re good to go.
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Gluten-Free Banana Bread: For a gluten-free version, you can use gluten-free flour. Be sure to check that your baking powder is gluten-free as well, and your loaf will be safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
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Banana Bread Muffins: If you prefer individual servings, simply pour the batter into a muffin tin and bake at the same temperature for about 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. These banana bread muffins are perfect for on-the-go breakfasts or snacks.
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Banana Bread with Dried Fruit: If you like a little chewiness in your bread, try adding dried fruits like cranberries, raisins, or apricots. This variation gives the bread a more complex flavor and texture.
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Peanut Butter Banana Bread: Peanut butter lovers will enjoy the addition of 1/2 cup of creamy peanut butter into the batter. This gives the bread a savory twist that balances the sweetness of the bananas.
Health Benefits of Banana Banana Bread
Although Banana Banana Bread is a treat, it does offer some nutritional benefits, especially when you opt for whole-grain flour and add-ins like nuts or seeds. Bananas themselves are rich in potassium, vitamin B6, and vitamin C, all of which contribute to a healthy diet. By incorporating whole grains and nuts, you can also increase the fiber and protein content, making it a more balanced option for breakfast or a snack.
If you’re looking for a way to make the bread even healthier, consider reducing the sugar content or substituting it with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup. You can also experiment with replacing part of the butter with applesauce or Greek yogurt for a lower-fat version.
Why Banana Banana Bread is a Classic
The allure of Banana Banana Bread lies in its simplicity and versatility. It’s the kind of recipe that evokes feelings of comfort and nostalgia, reminding us of cozy mornings and family gatherings. The sweet banana flavor paired with the soft, moist texture is universally loved, and the ease of preparation makes it a go-to recipe for both beginner bakers and seasoned pros.
The ability to modify the recipe by adding various ingredients allows everyone to put their personal touch on this beloved treat. It’s a recipe that can be enjoyed year-round, whether served warm in the winter with a cup of tea or as a refreshing snack on a summer day.
Conclusion
Banana Banana Bread is more than just a delicious treat—it’s a recipe that offers endless possibilities for creativity. Whether you follow the classic recipe or put your own spin on it, this quick bread is sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire. It’s simple to make, customizable, and the perfect way to use up those ripe bananas sitting on your kitchen counter. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that both kids and adults will love. So next time you have overripe bananas, reach for this recipe and treat yourself to the comforting goodness of homemade banana bread.