Instructions:
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
Step 2
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Step 3
Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated.
Step 4
Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
Step 5
In a separate bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork.
Step 6
Add the mashed bananas to the wet mixture and mix until smooth.
Step 7
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
Step 8
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, alternating with the sour cream.
Step 9
Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
Step 10
Gently fold in the chopped nuts if using.
Step 11
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Bake for 60-70 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 12
Allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.