Best Moist Banana Bread Recipe
why make this recipe
Banana bread is a classic favorite that brings comfort and warmth to any kitchen. This Best Moist Banana Bread Recipe stands out because of its incredible texture and rich flavor. Every bite offers a delightful mix of sweetness and moistness, making it perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert. Plus, it’s an excellent way to use up overripe bananas that might otherwise go to waste.
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
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Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Spray a 9×5 inch loaf pan with nonstick spray, or line it with parchment paper.
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If you plan to add nuts, toast them now. Spread 1/2 or 3/4 cup chopped nuts on a dry baking sheet. Bake at 350 for 5-7 minutes, stirring every 2 minutes. They are done when fragrant. Set aside to cool.
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In a large bowl or a stand mixer, beat the softened butter until smooth. Add the brown and granulated sugars and cream together for about 2 minutes until fluffy, scraping the sides and bottom of the bowl.
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Add the eggs and vanilla extract. Beat until well combined, scraping the sides again.
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In a small bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork or potato masher until you have about 1 cup. Add the mashed bananas to the butter mixture and stir until combined.
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Add the flour to the bowl but do not stir yet. Blend the oats in a blender or food processor until it turns into a powder. Add this oat flour to the bowl without stirring.
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Use a small spoon to mix the baking soda, baking powder, and salt into the flour. Ensure there are no clumps.
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If desired, add spices like cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg for added flavor. Stir the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until combined, scraping the sides and bottom.
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Finally, fold in the sour cream and any nuts you want to include.
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Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 55-65 minutes. Check with a toothpick inserted in the center—if it comes out clean, it’s ready.
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Let the bread cool for about 20 minutes on a cooling rack before slicing.
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Store covered on the counter for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate or freeze as needed.
how to serve Best Moist Banana Bread
Best Moist Banana Bread is delicious on its own. However, it’s also great when served warm with a layer of butter spread on top. You can also enjoy it with a dollop of cream cheese or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a sweeter treat.
how to store Best Moist Banana Bread
To keep your banana bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you have leftovers, you can refrigerate them. For long-term storage, wrap the loaf or individual slices in foil, place them in a ziplock bag, and freeze. They can be thawed on the counter and warmed up in a toaster if desired.
tips to make Best Moist Banana Bread
- Use ripe bananas for the best flavor and sweetness. The more speckles, the better!
- Make sure to cream the butter and sugars well to get a fluffy texture.
- Don’t overmix the batter once the dry ingredients are added to avoid a dense loaf.
- Consider saving some chopped nuts to sprinkle on top of the batter before baking for added crunch and visual appeal.
variation (if any)
Feel free to customize your banana bread by adding chocolate chips, dried fruits like cranberries, or even coconut flakes. Some people enjoy using half whole wheat flour for a healthier twist, and you can adjust the spices to your liking.
FAQs
Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?
Yes, thawed frozen bananas work perfectly! Just make sure to drain any extra liquid before mashing.
How can I know if my banana bread is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the bread. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, it’s done.
Can I use oil instead of butter?
Yes, you can substitute vegetable oil for butter, but the texture may differ slightly. Butter gives a richer flavor and moisture.
Best Moist Banana Bread
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Spray a 9x5 inch loaf pan with nonstick spray, or line it with parchment paper.
- If you plan to add nuts, toast them now. Spread 1/2 or 3/4 cup chopped nuts on a dry baking sheet. Bake at 350 for 5-7 minutes, stirring every 2 minutes. They are done when fragrant. Set aside to cool.
- In a large bowl or stand mixer, beat the softened butter until smooth. Add the brown and granulated sugars and cream together for about 2 minutes until fluffy, scraping the sides and bottom of the bowl.
- Add the eggs and vanilla extract. Beat until well combined, scraping the sides again.
- In a small bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork or potato masher until you have about 1 cup. Add the mashed bananas to the butter mixture and stir until combined.
- Add the flour to the bowl but do not stir yet. Blend the oats in a blender or food processor until it turns into a powder. Add this oat flour to the bowl without stirring.
- Use a small spoon to mix the baking soda, baking powder, and salt into the flour. Ensure there are no clumps.
- If desired, add spices like cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg for added flavor. Stir the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until combined, scraping the sides and bottom.
- Finally, fold in the sour cream and any nuts you want to include.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 55-65 minutes. Check with a toothpick inserted in the center—if it comes out clean, it’s ready.
- Let the bread cool for about 20 minutes on a cooling rack before slicing.