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Banana Bread: How to Make the Best Moist & Easy Loaf

Freshly baked banana bread on a rustic kitchen table

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This moist, classic banana bread is packed with ripe bananas and simple ingredients. Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert, it’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

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  • 2 cups all purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 3 to 4 ripe bananas, mashed (about 1 1/4 cups)
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar (or a combination of granulated and brown sugar)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and cooled
  • 1/3 cup sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease and flour an 8½ x 4½ inch loaf pan or spray with nonstick cooking spray. Set aside.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
  3. Mash bananas in a large bowl using a potato masher, fork, or mixer. Some small chunks are fine.
  4. Whisk in sugar, eggs, melted butter, sour cream, and vanilla extract into the mashed bananas.
  5. Add the dry ingredients to the wet and gently stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
  6. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
  7. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Tent with foil during the last 10 minutes if browning too quickly.
  8. Cool in the pan on a wire rack for 15-20 minutes. Remove from pan and let cool completely on the rack before slicing.

Notes

  • Use very ripe bananas for the best flavor and sweetness.
  • You can use a mix of brown and white sugar for added depth.
  • Sour cream or Greek yogurt keeps the bread moist and tender.
  • Bread can be stored, tightly wrapped, at room temperature for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
  • Add nuts or chocolate chips for extra flavor.

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