Buttermilk Banana Bread is a classic, moist, and flavorful quick bread that elevates the traditional banana bread with the tangy richness of buttermilk. This version creates a tender crumb and soft texture while enhancing the natural sweetness of ripe bananas. Buttermilk reacts with baking soda to produce a light, fluffy loaf that is perfectly balanced in flavor and not overly sweet. Ideal for breakfast, snacks, or dessert, this bread is comforting, easy to make, and a great way to use overripe bananas.
The combination of buttermilk and bananas gives the bread a rich, buttery flavor with a hint of tang, making it soft, moist, and irresistible. It’s a simple yet elevated version of a beloved classic, perfect for sharing with family or enjoying with a cup of tea or coffee.
Why I Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it creates the softest, most flavorful banana bread every time. The buttermilk adds a subtle tang that balances the sweetness of the bananas and gives the bread a wonderfully tender crumb. It’s easy to prepare and delivers a loaf that feels homemade and special without requiring complicated ingredients or techniques.
Why This Is a Must-Try Dish
This is a must-try dish because it takes classic banana bread to the next level. The addition of buttermilk makes the loaf extra moist, soft, and flavorful, while still being easy to make with simple pantry ingredients. It’s perfect for any occasion, from breakfast to dessert, and is loved by both kids and adults alike.
Preparation Time, Cooking Time and Nutrition
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 10 slices
Calories: Approximately 300 calories per slice
Course: Breakfast / Snack / Dessert
Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
Cooking Directions
The banana bread is prepared by combining mashed bananas, butter, and sugars, then incorporating eggs, vanilla, and buttermilk. Dry ingredients are folded in gently, and the batter is baked until golden and cooked through. The buttermilk ensures a moist, tender crumb and a slight tang that complements the natural sweetness of the bananas.
Step-by-Step Preparation Method
Step 1: Preheat the oven to 175°C. Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper.
Step 2: In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth. Add melted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla. Mix until combined.
Step 3: Stir in the buttermilk until fully incorporated.
Step 4: In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
Step 5: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet banana mixture until just combined. Do not overmix.
Step 6: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
Step 7: Bake for 55–60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 8: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
How to Serve Buttermilk Banana Bread
Serve at room temperature or slightly warm. It’s delicious on its own, with a pat of butter, or lightly toasted. It can also be paired with coffee, tea, or milk for a perfect snack or breakfast.
Recipe Tips
- Use very ripe bananas for maximum flavor and natural sweetness.
- Do not overmix the batter to keep the bread tender.
- Measure flour carefully to avoid a dense loaf.
- Check for doneness with a toothpick in the center of the loaf.
Variations of Buttermilk Banana Bread
Chocolate Chip Banana Bread: Fold in ½ cup chocolate chips before baking.
Nutty Banana Bread: Add ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch.
Spiced Banana Bread: Add nutmeg, ginger, or allspice along with cinnamon for extra warmth.
Berry Banana Bread: Mix in ½ cup blueberries or raspberries for a fruity twist.
Gluten-Free Version: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Freezing and Storage Time
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Freezer: Freeze whole loaf or slices for up to 2 months. Wrap tightly in foil or plastic wrap.
Reheating: Warm slices in the oven or microwave before serving.
Special Equipment Needed
- 9×5-inch loaf pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Parchment paper (optional)
- Wire cooling rack
Conclusion
Buttermilk Banana Bread is a classic, moist, and flavorful treat that is simple to make and always satisfying. The combination of ripe bananas and tangy buttermilk creates a tender loaf with rich flavor and perfect crumb. Easy to customize with nuts, chocolate, or spices, it’s ideal for breakfast, snacks, or dessert, and is a recipe you will return to again and again.
Buttermilk Banana Bread
Buttermilk Banana Bread is a classic, moist, and flavorful quick bread that elevates the traditional banana bread with the tangy richness of buttermilk. This version creates a tender crumb and soft texture while enhancing the natural sweetness of ripe bananas.
Ingredients
Instructions
-
Step 1: Preheat the oven to 175°C. Grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper.
-
Step 2: In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth. Add melted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla. Mix until combined.
-
Step 3: Stir in the buttermilk until fully incorporated.
-
Step 4: In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
-
Step 5: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet banana mixture until just combined. Do not overmix.
-
Step 6: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
-
Step 7: Bake for 55–60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
-
Step 8: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
