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Sourdough Banana Bread Recipe - Moist, Tangy, and Easy

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup (240 g) mashed very ripe bananas (about 2–3 medium)
  • 1/2 cup (120 g) sourdough starter (active or discard, 100% hydration)
  • 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup (55 g) brown sugar (light or dark)
  • 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter, melted and cooled (or neutral oil)
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 cups (190 g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon fine salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
  • 1/2 cup (85 g) chocolate chips or chopped nuts (optional)

Method
 

  1. Prep the pan and oven: Heat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan and line it with a parchment sling for easy removal.
  2. Whisk the wet ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk the mashed bananas, sourdough starter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla until smooth and well combined.
  3. Combine the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, stir together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon (if using).
  4. Bring the batter together: Add the dry ingredients to the wet. Gently fold with a spatula until just combined. Stop when you no longer see streaks of flour. Do not overmix.
  5. Add mix-ins: Fold in chocolate chips or nuts, if using. Reserve a small handful to scatter on top for a pretty finish.
  6. Fill the pan: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Smooth the top and add any reserved toppings.
  7. Bake: Bake for 55–65 minutes. The loaf is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs.
  8. Cool properly: Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes. Lift it out and cool completely on a wire rack before slicing. This helps set the crumb.
  9. Slice and serve: Use a serrated knife for clean slices. Enjoy plain or spread with butter, cream cheese, or peanut butter.