Banana bread is one of those comforting treats that can make your home feel cozy and warm. It is perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert. The great thing about banana bread is that it is simple to make and requires ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. This recipe promises a moist and delicious loaf that will fill your home with a delightful smell as it bakes. With just the right amount of sweetness from ripe bananas, it is a favorite for many. You can also add your choice of nuts, making each bite a little extra special.

Making banana bread is not complicated. Even if you are a beginner, you can easily follow this recipe and impress your friends and family. In just over an hour, you can enjoy a delicious loaf straight from your oven. Gather your ingredients, heat up your oven, and let’s get started with the best moist banana bread you’ve ever tasted.

Why Make This Recipe

This banana bread recipe stands out because it is incredibly moist and full of flavor. Using ripe bananas ensures the bread is naturally sweet, elastic, and delicious. The addition of sour cream adds creaminess and keeps the bread from drying out. Plus, you can customize it by adding nuts or spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. This recipe is great for using up overripe bananas, and it’s always a hit among guests. Best of all, the bread freezes well, allowing you to enjoy it later.

How to Make Best Moist Banana Bread

Ingredients

1/2 cup butter (1 stick, softened)

1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)

1/2 cup granulated sugar

2 large eggs

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

1 cup mashed ripe banana (9 ounces*, about 2 and 1/2 medium bananas)

1 cup all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled)

1/2 cup old-fashioned oats (blended into a powder**)

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 & 1/2 teaspoons baking powder

3/4 teaspoon kosher salt

1/2 cup sour cream

1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)

1/8 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)

1/8 teaspoon cloves (optional)

1/2 to 3/4 cup toasted pecans or walnuts (optional)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Spray a 9×5 inch loaf pan with nonstick spray, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal. If you’re using nuts, toast them now. Spread chopped nuts on a baking sheet and bake for 5-7 minutes, stirring every 2 minutes until fragrant. Set aside to cool.

In a large bowl, beat the butter until smooth. Add brown sugar and white sugar, and cream together for about 2 minutes until fluffy. Add eggs and vanilla, and beat until well combined.

In a small bowl, mash 2 to 2.5 ripe bananas with a fork or masher until you have about 1 cup. Mix in the mashed banana with the butter mixture. Add flour without stirring yet. Blend oats into a powder and add to the bowl. Stir in baking soda, baking powder, and salt, mixing until combined. Optionally, add cinnamon and a hint of nutmeg and cloves.

Lastly, fold in sour cream and any nuts you wish to include. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth out the top. Bake for 55-65 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the bread cool for at least 20 minutes before slicing.

How to Serve Best Moist Banana Bread

You can serve banana bread plain or with butter. It pairs well with coffee or tea and can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. Add slices to your breakfast table or serve them as an afternoon snack.

How to Store Best Moist Banana Bread

Store leftover banana bread covered at room temperature for up to 2 days. After that, if there is any left, it is best to refrigerate it to keep it fresh longer. Banana bread also freezes well. Wrap the loaf tightly in foil and place it in a ziplock bag before freezing.

Tips to Make Best Moist Banana Bread

Make sure to use very ripe bananas for maximum flavor. The dough may seem thick, but that’s normal. Don’t overmix the batter; stir just until combined. This will help keep the bread tender and moist.

Variations

You can customize the recipe by adding chocolate chips, dried fruits, or different types of nuts. Adjust spices according to your taste.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen bananas?

Yes, thaw them before using, and be sure to drain excess moisture.

2. What can I substitute for sour cream?

You can use plain yogurt or applesauce as an alternative.

3. How can I tell when banana bread is done?

Use the toothpick test—insert it in the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s done.

4. How long does banana bread last?

It lasts up to 2 days at room temperature. If stored properly in the fridge, it can last up to a week.

5. Can I add chocolate chips?

Yes, adding chocolate chips is a delicious variation! Sprinkle them in when you mix in the dry ingredients.

About the Author — Linda Dawson
Linda shares simple, family-friendly desserts with a playful twist — mostly cakes and cookies you can bake on busy days.
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