Moist Banana Loaf

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 1 hour 10 min
🍽 Serves: 8
★★★★★
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If you're on the hunt for a comforting treat that makes use of those overripe bananas sitting on your counter, look no further. This Moist Banana Loaf is a family favorite, perfect for breakfast or a snack, and its rich flavor and texture are hard to beat.

Ingredients for Moist Banana Loaf

Butter: Provides richness and moisture to the loaf. Make sure it’s softened for easy creaming.

Granulated sugar: Sweetens the bread and helps achieve a tender crumb.

Eggs: Add structure and stability. Incorporate one at a time for better mixing.

Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile, adding a warm, sweet aroma.

All-purpose flour: The base of the loaf, giving it body. Be sure to measure it correctly.

Baking soda: Acts as a leavening agent to help the loaf rise.

Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.

Sour cream: Keeps the loaf moist and adds a slight tanginess.

Overripe bananas: The star of the show, providing natural sweetness and a tender texture.

Walnuts (optional): Add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.

Tips & Tricks

  • Use bananas that are very ripe, almost black. They impart more flavor and sweetness.
  • If your bananas aren’t ripe yet, you can speed up the process by placing them in a brown paper bag overnight.
  • For a nut-free version, simply omit the walnuts.
  • Want to make it extra special? Toss in a handful of chocolate chips.

Serving Suggestions

This banana loaf is delightful on its own, but for an extra treat, try spreading a bit of butter or cream cheese on a slice. It's also fantastic with a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of cinnamon. Pair it with a cup of hot tea or a latte for a cozy afternoon snack.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze banana loaf?
Yes, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze. It will keep for up to 3 months.
Can I use whole wheat flour?
You can, but it will alter the texture. Try substituting half of the all-purpose flour first.
How do I know when it’s done baking?
Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, the loaf is ready.

Moist Banana Loaf Recipe Walkthrough

First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures it's hot enough when your batter is ready to bake. Next, grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan. A simple swipe of butter or a quick spray of cooking oil will do the trick.

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it incorporates air into the mix, giving your loaf a wonderful texture.

Next, beat in the eggs, one at a time, making sure each is fully integrated before adding the next. Pour in the vanilla extract and mix well.

In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. This step ensures the baking soda and salt are evenly distributed, preventing any unpleasant pockets of saltiness or uneven rising.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to your wet mixture, alternating with the sour cream. Start and end with the flour mixture, mixing gently to avoid overworking the batter.

Fold in the mashed bananas and, if you like, the chopped walnuts. Be gentle here; you want everything just combined. Over-mixing can lead to a tough loaf.

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. It's now ready to hit the oven. Bake for 60-70 minutes. You'll know it's done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Let the banana loaf cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This brief rest allows the loaf to set, making it easier to remove from the pan. Once on the rack, let it cool completely before slicing.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Perfectly moist and tender texture.
  • Easy to make with simple, everyday ingredients.
  • Great way to use up overripe bananas.
  • Customizable with optional nuts or chocolate chips.
  • Freezes well for future indulgence.

Ingredients

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup sour cream
3 medium overripe bananas, mashed
1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract, mixing well after each addition.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the sour cream, beginning and ending with the flour mixture.
6. Fold in the mashed bananas and, if using, the chopped walnuts until just combined.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
8. Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Let the banana loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

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