Best Banana Bread
This easy and delicious banana bread recipe delivers a comforting taste that appeals to everyone. Perfect for breakfast or as a sweet treat.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1/2 cup butter, softened adds moisture
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed provides richness
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar sweetness
- 2 large eggs binding agent
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract flavor enhancer
- 1 cup mashed ripe banana (about 2 and 1/2 medium bananas) moisture and sweetness
- 1 cup all-purpose flour structure
- 1/2 cup old fashioned oats, blended into a powder texture
- 1 teaspoon baking soda leavening agent
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder leavening agent
- 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt enhances flavor
- 1/2 cup sour cream adds moisture
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon optional, warmth
- 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg optional, warmth
- 1/8 teaspoon cloves optional, warmth
- 1/2 to 3/4 cup toasted pecans or walnuts optional, crunch
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your loaf pan lightly with butter or non-stick spray.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in vanilla extract.
- Mash the ripe bananas until smooth and fold them into the batter.
- In another bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, powdered oats, baking soda, baking powder, and kosher salt. Gradually add to the wet mixture, stirring gently.
- Add the sour cream and gently fold it in. If using, add cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves at this step.
- Fold in toasted nuts if desired, then pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
Baking
- Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 55 to 65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
Use overripe bananas for better flavor and moisture. Avoid overmixing to maintain a tender crumb.