Polly'S Sour Cream Banana Nut Bread
Polly's Sour Cream Banana Nut Bread is a moist, flavorful loaf combining ripe bananas, crunchy nuts, and a hint of lemon. Its rich, sweet taste makes it perfect for breakfast, snacks, or gifting. The classic combination of ingredients results in a tender, aromatic bread that appeals to all banana lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix margarine, sugar, vanilla, lemon juice, and eggs in a bowl, mixing well after each ingredient is added.
- In another bowl, sift together salt, soda, baking powder, and flour.
- Add alternately with sour cream to the first mixture, beginning and ending with the flour mixture.
- Fold in chopped nuts.
- Pour the batter into two large loaf pans.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using butter instead of margarine. You can also substitute half of the sugar with brown sugar for a caramel-like sweetness. If you're short on bananas, unsweetened applesauce can be used as a substitute, although the flavor will differ slightly. Make sure to use overripe bananas to achieve the best sweetness and moisture in the bread.
Serving Suggestions
This banana nut bread pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a spread of cream cheese for a delightful breakfast or snack. Serve it with a side of fresh fruit or a warm beverage like coffee or tea. For a fun twist, consider serving it alongside Chocolate Chunk Bars for a sweet treat platter that everyone will love.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, wrap the cooled banana nut bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze slices by placing parchment paper between them to prevent sticking. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature or reheat in the microwave for a few seconds.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Polly'S Sour Cream Banana Nut Bread contains roughly 420 calories, with 5g protein, 40g carbohydrates, and 28g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (12% of the Daily Value), protein (10% of the Daily Value), and potassium (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 631mg per serving (27% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of plain flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for a healthier option, but it may alter the texture slightly, making it denser. To maintain a lighter texture, consider using half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour.
What can I use if I don't have sour cream?
If you don't have sour cream, you can use plain yogurt as a substitute. It will provide a similar tangy flavor and moisture to the bread. Just ensure it's full-fat for the best results.
How can I tell when the bread is done baking?
The banana nut bread is done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. If it comes out with wet batter, continue baking for an additional 5-10 minutes, checking regularly to avoid overbaking.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).