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Janet's Rich Banana Bread

A moist and flavorful banana bread recipe that transforms sad bananas into a delicious breakfast, snack, or dessert.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Breakfast, Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 200

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 3 pieces ripe bananas Look for bananas with dark spots; overripe is better.
  • 1/2 cup butter, softened Grease the pan with butter for added flavor.
  • 1 cup sugar Can adjust based on preference, but this is standard.
  • 2 large eggs Use room temperature eggs for best results.
  • 1/2 cup sour cream or full-fat yogurt Can substitute with Greek yogurt if desired.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Optional for enhanced flavor.
  • 1.5 cups all-purpose flour Can substitute with a gluten-free blend.
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda Essential for leavening the bread.
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt Enhances the overall flavor.
Optional Add-Ins
  • 1 cup chocolate chips or nuts Feel free to add walnuts or chocolate as desired.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth.
  3. Add softened butter and sugar to the mashed bananas; mix until well combined.
  4. Beat in the eggs, sour cream (or yogurt), and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
  5. In a separate bowl, mix the flour, baking soda, and salt.
  6. Slowly fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Do not over-mix.
  7. If using, gently fold in the chocolate chips or nuts.
Baking
  1. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
  2. Bake in the preheated oven for about 55-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
  3. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

For best texture, allow bananas to ripen until heavily speckled or brown. Wrap cooled bread in plastic wrap to keep it moist. Can also freeze individual slices for later enjoyment.