REAL Sourdough Banana Bread

There’s something incredibly comforting about a loaf of banana bread, particularly when it’s made with the depth and richness of REAL sourdough. This recipe takes the classic banana bread to a whole new level by incorporating sourdough starter, which not only adds a unique tang but also enhances the texture and moisture of the bread. Whether it’s for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, this banana bread is sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen.

Why I Love This Recipe

I adore this REAL Sourdough Banana Bread for so many reasons. First, it’s a beautiful way to use up overripe bananas, which often sit on my countertop begging to be transformed. The addition of sourdough starter brings a delightful complexity to the flavor, making each bite satisfying and memorable. Plus, the moist crumb paired with the sweet notes from bananas and brown sugar creates a cozy, nostalgic experience that’s hard to resist. And let’s not forget the bonus of being able to customize it with your favorite mix-ins!

What You’ll Need

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup unfed sourdough starter
• 1/2 cup coconut oil, melted and slightly cooled
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
• 4 large eggs
• 2 cups mashed ripe bananas (about 4-5 large bananas)
• 1 1/2 cups brown sugar (add an additional 1/2 cup if you prefer it sweeter)
• 1/2 cup maple syrup (or substitute with more brown sugar)
• 2 teaspoons quality pure vanilla extract
• 2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 cup chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, peanut butter chips, or a combination
• 1 cup chopped toasted walnuts or pecans (optional)

Equipment Breakdown

• Mixing Bowls: You’ll need a few different sizes for mixing ingredients.
• Whisk: To thoroughly combine your wet ingredients.
• Rubber Spatula: Perfect for folding in the flour and mix-ins without over-mixing.
• Loaf Pans: Standard 9×5 inch loaf pans work best for this recipe.
• Oven: Preheat to ensure your banana bread bakes evenly.

Cook REAL Sourdough Banana Bread Like This

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients on the counter. Make sure your bananas are ripe; the more brown spots, the better! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your loaf pans with a bit of coconut oil or butter.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted coconut oil, melted butter, and brown sugar. Whisk until smooth, then add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Next, stir in the mashed bananas, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and your unfed sourdough starter. Mix until everything is well combined.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and kosher salt. This ensures that your leavening agents are evenly distributed throughout the flour before mixing it with the wet ingredients.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, using a rubber spatula to gently fold them together. Be careful not to over-mix; it’s okay if there are a few lumps. If you’re adding chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, or nuts, fold them in now.

Step 5: Pour and Bake

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared loaf pans. Bake in the preheated oven for about 60-70 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the tops are browning too quickly, you can tent them with aluminum foil.

Step 6: Cool and Enjoy

Once baked, remove the pans from the oven and let them cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve your delicious REAL Sourdough Banana Bread!

Dietary Swaps & Alternatives

• Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.
• Vegan: Substitute eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg) and use a plant-based butter substitute.
• Lower Sugar: Reduce brown sugar to 1 cup and use unsweetened applesauce in place of the maple syrup for a lighter version.
• Nut-Free: Omit the nuts and ensure any chips used are nut-free.

If You’re Curious

Did you know that sourdough bread has been around for thousands of years? It’s one of the oldest forms of leavened bread, and its unique fermentation process not only enhances flavor but also makes it easier to digest. Using sourdough starter in banana bread adds a delightful tang that complements the sweetness of the bananas beautifully. If you’re new to sourdough, don’t be intimidated! It’s a wonderful ingredient that elevates your baked goods.

Cooling, Storing & Rewarming

Allow your REAL Sourdough Banana Bread to cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze. To rewarm, simply pop slices in the toaster or microwave for a few seconds. Enjoy it warm for the ultimate experience!

Troubleshooting Q&A

Why is my banana bread dense?

If your banana bread turns out dense, it may be due to over-mixing the batter or using too much flour. Be gentle when combining the wet and dry ingredients and measure your flour correctly, spooning it into the measuring cup instead of scooping directly from the bag.

Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen bananas work wonderfully in banana bread. Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before mashing.

How do I know when my banana bread is done baking?

The best way to check if your banana bread is done is to insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s ready. If there’s wet batter on the toothpick, it needs more time in the oven.

What can I do if my bread is too sweet?

If you find that your bread is too sweet for your taste, consider reducing the amount of brown sugar and maple syrup in future batches. You can also balance the sweetness by adding a pinch of salt or serving the bread with a side of plain yogurt.

Let’s Eat

Whether you’re enjoying a slice of REAL Sourdough Banana Bread with a cup of coffee in the morning or indulging in a warm piece for dessert, this recipe is sure to be a hit. The combination of flavors and textures creates a delightful experience that will leave you wanting more. So go ahead, whip up a batch, and share it with friends and family—or keep it all to yourself!