Step 1: Preheat the Oven & Prepare the Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or non-stick spray, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Mash the Bananas

In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork or potato masher until mostly smooth. Some small lumps are fine as they add texture to the bread.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

Add the melted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and sour cream to the mashed bananas. Whisk everything together until well combined.

Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. If you’re adding nuts or chocolate chips, toss them in a tablespoon of flour to prevent them from sinking to the bottom.

Step 5: Mix Everything Together

Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients using a spatula. Mix gently until just combined—do not overmix, as this can make the bread dense.

Step 6: Bake the Banana Bread

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool & Serve

Allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!