Sourdough Banana Bread

Sourdough banana bread is a delightful twist on the classic recipe, combining the rich flavors of ripe bananas with the distinctive tang of sourdough. This bread is not only incredibly satisfying but also a fantastic way to use up your sourdough starter. The result is a moist, flavorful loaf that’s perfect for breakfast, a snack, or dessert.

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 60-65 minutes
• Total Time: 75-80 minutes
• Servings: 8 slices
• Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

• Calories per serving: Approximately 180
• Protein: 3g
• Carbohydrates: 29g
• Fat: 7g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 180mg

Why Make This Sourdough Banana Bread

Making sourdough banana bread is an excellent way to incorporate the unique taste of sourdough into a beloved baked good. This recipe is not only simple but allows you to enjoy a loaf that is moist and bursting with flavor. The bananas add natural sweetness, which balances beautifully with the slight tang from the unfed sourdough starter. This comforting bread is perfect for any time of the day, and it also makes your home smell amazing while it bakes!

How to Make Sourdough Banana Bread

Crafting this delicious sourdough banana bread is straightforward. Just follow these steps for a wonderful result:

Ingredients:

• 3 ripe bananas, mashed
• 1 cup sourdough starter, unfed
• 1/3 cup melted butter
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• Optional: 1/2 cup walnuts or chocolate chips

Directions:

Step 1: Preparation

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan using butter or non-stick spray to ensure the bread comes out easily after baking.

Step 2: Mixing

In a large bowl, mix the mashed bananas with the melted butter until smooth. Stir in the unfed sourdough starter, sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract. Combine everything until it is well blended, but be careful not to over-mix.

Step 3: Cooking

In a separate bowl, whisk together the baking soda, salt, and flour. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the banana mixture, stirring until just combined. If you want to add walnuts or chocolate chips for extra flavor and texture, fold them in gently. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 60-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 4: Finishing

Once baked, allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps maintain the moisture inside the bread.

How to Serve Sourdough Banana Bread

Sourdough banana bread is delicious on its own, but it can also be enhanced with various toppings. Serve it warm with a spread of butter, cream cheese, or nut butter for added richness. You can also toast slices for a crunchy texture and serve them with fresh fruit or a drizzle of honey. For special occasions, consider dusting your bread with powdered sugar or serving it alongside a scoop of ice cream.

How to Store Sourdough Banana Bread

To store your sourdough banana bread, keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze slices in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag once frozen. This will help maintain their texture. The bread can be frozen for up to 3 months; just thaw at room temperature before serving.

Expert Tips for Perfect Sourdough Banana Bread

• Use very ripe bananas, as they are sweeter and mash more easily.
• If you want a deeper flavor, consider toasting the walnuts before folding them into the batter.
• Make sure your sourdough starter is at room temperature so that it mixes into the batter smoothly.
• Avoid overmixing the batter after adding the flour to ensure the bread stays tender.
• Add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra flavor profile.

Delicious Variations

• Chocolate Chip Sourdough Banana Bread: Add chocolate chips for a sweet twist.
• Nutty Version: Include chopped pecans or macadamia nuts in the batter.
• Spiced Banana Bread: Incorporate cinnamon or pumpkin spice for a comforting warm flavor.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I use fed sourdough starter for this recipe?
  Yes, while unfed sourdough starter is ideal, you can use a fed starter. Just adjust the recipe slightly for the extra hydration.

• How do I know when the banana bread is done baking?
  Insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, it’s done. If it has wet batter on it, bake for another 5-10 minutes and check again.

• Can I add other fruits?
  Yes! You can add blueberries, shredded coconut, or even apples. Just make sure to balance out the moisture content.

• How do I prevent my banana bread from sinking in the middle?
  Be cautious not to overmix the batter and ensure your baking soda is fresh, as this affects leavening.

• How should I cut the banana bread?
  Allow the bread to cool completely for the best cutting results. Use a sharp serrated knife for clean slices.

Conclusion

Sourdough banana bread is an easy, delicious way to use your sourdough starter while enjoying a moist, flavorful loaf. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe will surely become a favorite among family and friends. So gather your ingredients and give it a try—your future self will thank you for this delightful treat!

Sourdough Banana Bread

---

• Author: lydia
• Total Time: 80 minutes
• Yield: 8 slices 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

A delightful twist on the classic banana bread, combining ripe bananas with the tang of sourdough for a moist, flavorful loaf.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3 ripe bananas, mashed
• 1 cup sourdough starter, unfed
• 1/3 cup melted butter
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• Optional: 1/2 cup walnuts or chocolate chips

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, mix the mashed bananas with the melted butter until smooth. Stir in the sourdough starter, sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract until well blended.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the baking soda, salt, and flour. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the banana mixture, stirring until just combined. Fold in walnuts or chocolate chips if desired. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
4. Bake for 60-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow cooling in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Notes

Use very ripe bananas for sweetness. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 65 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 180
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 180mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 29g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 30mg