Go Back
+ servings
Cardamom banana bread on a wooden serving plate.

Cardamom Banana Bread

Amanda
This cardamom banana bread is incredibly moist, tender, and packed with rich banana flavor. The hint of cardamom adds a unique twist that makes it truly special. If you’re like me and often find yourself with overripe bananas, this recipe is the perfect solution!
5 from 6 votes
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Breakfast, Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 8 slices

Equipment

  • 9X5 inch metal baking pan
  • Measuring cups or kitchen scale
  • Measuring Spoons
  • Parchment Paper

Ingredients
 

  • 3 bananas (medium/large) very overripe, almost black, 7-8 inches
  • ¼ cup (52 grams) vegetable oil
  • 4 tablespoons (56 grams) unsalted butter melted and cooled
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ¾ cup (168 grams) granulated sugar
  • ¼ cup (64 grams) dark brown sugar, packed dark is best
  • ½ cup (120 grams) sour cream full fat, room temperature
  • 2 large eggs room temperature
  • 1 and ½ cups (202 grams) all purpose flour *use the fluff and spoon method if not weighing, see notes
  • 1 and ½ teaspoons ground cardamom
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon cinnamon

Instructions
 

Cardamom Banana Bread

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line a 9X5 inch metal baking pan with parchment paper, making sure it goes up and over the long sides.
  • In a large mixing bowl, mash the very overripe bananas until smooth.
  • Add the vegetable oil, vanilla extract, melted and cooled butter, granulated sugar, dark brown sugar, sour cream, and eggs to the mashed bananas. Mix until well combined.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk together the all purpose flour, baking soda, kosher salt, cardamom, and cinnamon until evenly mixed.
  • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, whisking gently until just combined. Be careful not to over mix.
  • Pour the batter into the prepared 9x5-inch metal baking pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
  • Position it on the center rack of the oven to ensure even baking, avoiding placement too close to the top or bottom. Bake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  • Allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

*Start by fluffing up the flour with a spoon to loosen it, then gently scoop it into your measuring cup without packing it down. Once the cup is slightly overfilled, use a straight edge like the back of a knife to level it off. 
*feel free to brown your butter for a nutty twist, or serve with brown butter! 
Storage
Room Temperature
Store the cooled down banana cardamom bread in an airtight container for up to 4 days on the counter.
Refrigerator
I don't recommend refrigerating baked goods, it dries them out!
Freezer
Place the cooled down bread in an airtight container for up to 2 months in the freezer. You can wrap in plastic wrap first for extra protection.
Don’t Over mix: Mixing just until combined is key to a tender crumb. Over mixing can lead to a gummy dense texture because bananas are involved as well.
Mash Bananas First: Mashing the bananas before adding them to the batter helps achieve a smoother consistency and ensures even distribution of flavor throughout the bread.
Avoid Opening the Oven: Resist the temptation to peek inside while the bread is baking. Opening the oven can cause it to sink in the middle, ruining that lovely rise.
Tried this recipe?Leave a comment below and tag @stir.taste.smile on social.