Sourdough Banana Bread

Sourdough banana bread is one of those delightful treats that combines the tangy goodness of sourdough with the sweet, comforting flavor of ripe bananas. It’s a recipe that transforms your sourdough discard into something extraordinary, making it a win-win for both your taste buds and your kitchen routine. With its moist texture and rich flavor, this sourdough banana bread is sure to become your new go-to recipe for breakfast, snack time, or even dessert.

Why Sourdough Banana Bread is Worth Your Time

Let’s be honest: banana bread is a classic, but when you add sourdough into the mix, it elevates the experience to a whole new level. The fermentation from the sourdough starter adds depth to the flavor profile, creating a delightful balance between sweet and tangy. Plus, using sourdough discard means you’re minimizing waste and maximizing flavor.

This recipe is incredibly simple and requires minimal ingredients. You can whip it up in no time, making it the perfect quick bake for those busy mornings or spontaneous gatherings. And the best part? Your kitchen will smell heavenly while it bakes, enticing everyone in the house to come and take a peek.

What Goes Into Sourdough Banana Bread

To create this delectable sourdough banana bread, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1-1/2 cups all-purpose flour (170 grams) – The base of our bread, providing structure.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda – This will help our bread rise and become fluffy.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt – Enhances flavor and balances the sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Adds a warm, comforting spice.
• 3/4 cup brown sugar (160 grams) – For that deep, rich sweetness.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature (113 grams) – Adds moisture and richness.
• 1 large egg – Binds the ingredients together.
• 1 cup unfed sourdough starter discard (227 grams) – The star of our recipe, contributing flavor and moisture.
• 1 cup mashed ripe banana (227 grams) – A must-have for that classic banana flavor.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla bean paste or vanilla extract – Elevates the flavor profile.

Recommended Tools

Before you dive into baking, gather the following tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable:

• Mixing bowls – For combining your ingredients.
• Measuring cups and spoons – Precision is key in baking.
• Rubber spatula – Great for folding and scraping the sides of the bowl.
• Loaf pan – A standard 9×5 inch loaf pan works perfectly.
• Whisk – To blend your dry ingredients seamlessly.
• Oven mitts – Safety first when handling hot pans!

Build Sourdough Banana Bread Step by Step

Now that you have your ingredients and tools ready, let’s get to the fun part: baking!

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your sourdough banana bread bakes evenly and rises perfectly.

Step 2: Prepare Your Loaf Pan

Grease your loaf pan with a bit of butter or cooking spray, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, kosher salt, and ground cinnamon. This step is essential to ensure even distribution of the leavening agents.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar

In another bowl, use your rubber spatula or whisk to cream together the room temperature butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.

Step 5: Add Egg and Vanilla

Add the large egg and vanilla bean paste (or extract) to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.

Step 6: Incorporate Sourdough Starter and Bananas

Gently fold in the unfed sourdough starter discard and the mashed ripe bananas until fully incorporated. The batter will be thick and luscious.

Step 7: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, folding gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine.

Step 8: Pour into Loaf Pan

Transfer the batter to your prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly.

Step 9: Bake

Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 10: Cool and Enjoy

Once baked, remove the banana bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. After that, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. Enjoy your sourdough banana bread warm or at room temperature!

Healthier Substitutions

If you’re looking to make some healthier adjustments to your sourdough banana bread, consider these options:

• Whole wheat flour – Substitute half or all of the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour for added fiber.
• Maple syrup or honey – Replace brown sugar with maple syrup or honey for a natural sweetener.
• Applesauce – Use unsweetened applesauce in place of some of the butter for a lighter option.
• Nut butter – Swap out the butter for almond or peanut butter for a nutty flavor and healthy fats.

Missteps & Fixes

Even seasoned bakers can run into a few hiccups. Here are some common missteps and how to fix them:

• If your sourdough banana bread is too dense, it may be due to overmixing the batter. Be gentle when combining ingredients.
• Should your bread rise unevenly, ensure your oven is fully preheated before baking.
• If it browns too quickly on top, cover it loosely with foil halfway through baking.
• If your bread sticks to the pan, allow it to cool slightly before attempting to remove it.

Storing Tips & Timelines

To keep your sourdough banana bread fresh and enjoyable, follow these storage tips:

Once completely cooled, wrap the banana bread tightly in plastic wrap or foil to maintain moisture. It can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, slice the bread and place it in an airtight container in the freezer, where it will last for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm slices in the toaster.

Common Questions

Can I use ripe bananas that are overripe?

Absolutely! Overripe bananas are actually perfect for banana bread as they are sweeter and more flavorful.

Can I use a fed sourdough starter instead of discard?

Yes, you can use a fed sourdough starter. Just remember that it will add a bit more leavening power, so adjust the baking soda accordingly.

Can I make this sourdough banana bread gluten-free?

You can try substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure the blend contains a binding agent like xanthan gum for best results.

How do I know when the bread is done baking?

The bread is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. The edges should also start to pull away from the sides of the pan.

Try These Next

Once you’ve mastered sourdough banana bread, why not try your hand at these delicious recipes:

• Sourdough Pancakes – Fluffy and tangy breakfast goodness.
• Sourdough Pizza Dough – Perfectly chewy and flavorful crust.
• Sourdough Bagels – Chewy and delicious, perfect for breakfast.
• Sourdough Dinner Rolls – Soft and buttery, a perfect addition to any meal.

Bring It to the Table

Sourdough banana bread is more than just a treat; it’s an experience that brings warmth and joy to your kitchen. The combination of flavors, the delightful aroma, and the satisfying texture make it a must-try for anyone who loves baking. Whether you enjoy it fresh out of the oven or toasted with a pat of butter, this banana bread will surely become a cherished recipe in your home. So grab those ripe bananas and get baking; your taste buds will thank you!