Rich Banana Bread

INGREDIENTS:

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking soda

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

1 cup granulated sugar

2 large eggs

1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

4 ripe bananas, mashed

1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)

DIRECTIONS:

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This can be done using a hand mixer or a stand mixer with a paddle attachment.

Step 4: Add Eggs, Sour Cream, and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each one is fully incorporated before adding the next. Mix in the sour cream (or Greek yogurt) and vanilla extract.

Step 5: Incorporate Bananas

Stir in the mashed bananas until well combined.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 7: Add Walnuts and Chocolate Chips (Optional)

If using, fold in the chopped walnuts and chocolate chips.

Step 8: Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 9: Cool

Allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.