There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked banana bread filling your home, and this Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread takes it to the next level! A moist and tender banana loaf is layered with a ribbon of sweet cinnamon sugar, giving every bite a warm and comforting flavor. The top bakes into a lightly crisp, caramelized crust, making this the perfect treat to enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea.
Whether you’re looking for a delicious breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a sweet gift for a friend, this banana bread is an easy and satisfying option. Plus, it’s freezer friendly, so you can always have a slice of homemade goodness on hand! Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a cozy, cinnamon-kissed treat that will have everyone coming back for more.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
Banana Bread:
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1 ⅓ cups (315 g) mashed bananas (about 3 medium overripe bananas)
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⅓ cup (75 g) unsalted butter, melted
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¾ cup (150 g) granulated sugar
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1 large egg
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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1 ½ cups (180 g) all-purpose flour (stir, spoon & level)
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1 tsp baking soda
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½ tsp salt
Cinnamon Sugar Swirl:
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⅓ cup (68 g) granulated sugar
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1 Tbsp ground cinnamon
Directions:
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 1lb (8×4-inch) bread pan with cooking spray and set aside.
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In a large bowl, mash the bananas with a fork or potato masher until smooth.
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Add the melted butter, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
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Add the flour, baking soda, and salt. Stir the dry ingredients slightly before folding them into the wet mixture. Mix until just combined.
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In a small bowl, mix together the cinnamon and sugar for the swirl and topping.
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Spread half of the banana bread batter into the prepared loaf pan.
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Sprinkle all but 2 tablespoons of the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the batter.
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Dollop and spread the remaining batter over the cinnamon sugar layer. Be careful to avoid pulling up the cinnamon sugar while spreading.
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Top with the remaining 2 tablespoons of cinnamon sugar and use a knife to gently swirl the batter.
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Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Let the bread cool in the pan for 5-10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
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Slice with a serrated knife and enjoy!
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 55 minutes | Total Time: 70 minutes
Calories per Serving: 202 kcal | Servings: 8 slices
Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread: The Ultimate Comfort Bake
Banana bread is a staple in home baking easy to make, incredibly delicious, and always a crowd pleaser. But if you’re looking for a way to take classic banana bread to the next level, then this Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread is the answer. By adding a layer of cinnamon sugar in the middle and a lightly crisp cinnamon topping, this recipe transforms traditional banana bread into a delightful treat with warm, cozy flavors in every bite.
Whether you’re baking for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, this banana bread is sure to become a favorite. It’s moist, sweet, and filled with a beautiful cinnamon ribbon that adds both flavor and texture. Plus, the combination of bananas and cinnamon creates an irresistible aroma that fills your kitchen as it bakes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
1. Perfectly Moist and Fluffy Texture
The secret to great banana bread lies in achieving the perfect texture soft, moist, and not too dense. Overripe bananas contribute natural sweetness and moisture, while melted butter ensures a tender crumb. The cinnamon sugar swirl melts slightly into the bread during baking, creating a gooey center that keeps every slice soft and flavorful.
2. An Irresistible Cinnamon Swirl
Cinnamon and sugar are a magical combination. The layer of cinnamon sugar in the middle of the bread not only enhances the flavor but also creates a beautiful swirl when sliced. The trick is to layer the batter and swirl gently with a knife, ensuring a perfect marbling effect.
3. A Crunchy, Caramelized Topping
While banana bread is naturally sweet, the addition of a cinnamon sugar topping gives it an extra special touch. As the bread bakes, the topping caramelizes slightly, forming a delicate crust that contrasts beautifully with the soft, moist interior. If eaten fresh, the topping is crisp; if stored overnight, it softens and blends into the bread for a different yet equally delicious experience.
4. Easy to Make with Simple Ingredients
One of the best things about this recipe is how easy it is to make. You don’t need a mixer just a few bowls, a whisk, and a spatula. Most of the ingredients are pantry staples, making this an excellent last-minute bake when you have extra ripe bananas on hand.
5. Aromatic and Cozy
Baking this banana bread fills your home with a comforting, warm cinnamon aroma. It’s the kind of scent that reminds you of holiday mornings, family gatherings, and cozy afternoons with a hot cup of coffee or tea.
Tips for Making the Best Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread
Use Overripe Bananas for Maximum Flavor
The more overripe the bananas, the better the flavor! Look for bananas with plenty of brown spots on the peel these are naturally sweeter and provide the best texture for banana bread. If your bananas aren’t quite ripe enough, you can speed up the process by placing them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 15 minutes or microwaving them in 30-second bursts.
Do Not Overmix the Batter
To achieve a soft and fluffy texture, mix the dry ingredients just until combined with the wet ingredients. Overmixing can lead to dense, tough banana bread because it activates the gluten in the flour too much.
Perfecting the Cinnamon Swirl
When adding the cinnamon sugar layer, be gentle when spreading the second layer of batter on top to avoid mixing it too much. For a well-defined swirl, use a knife to make a few gentle swirls through the batter less is more.
Let the Bread Cool Before Slicing
It’s tempting to cut into the bread while it’s still warm, but allowing it to cool fully helps the flavors develop and makes slicing easier. Use a serrated knife for the best results.
Store for Even Better Flavor
Banana bread tastes even better the next day! Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and freeze them in an airtight bag for up to three months.
Serving Suggestions
Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways.
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Classic Style: Enjoy it as-is, sliced thick, with a cup of coffee, tea, or a cold glass of milk.
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Toasted with Butter: Lightly toast a slice and spread it with butter or a drizzle of honey for an extra indulgent treat.
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With a Spread: Pair it with cream cheese, peanut butter, or Nutella for a delicious twist.
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As a Dessert: Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
This banana bread is also a great addition to brunch spreads or afternoon tea gatherings.
Common Questions About Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread
Can I Add Nuts or Chocolate Chips?
Absolutely! If you love texture and extra flavor, try adding chopped walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips to the batter. Just fold them in gently before pouring the batter into the pan.
How Can I Make This Banana Bread Healthier?
To make a healthier version, consider the following swaps:
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Replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour.
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Use coconut sugar or honey instead of granulated sugar.
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Swap out some butter for unsweetened applesauce.
Why Did My Banana Bread Sink in the Middle?
If your banana bread sinks after baking, it could be due to underbaking. Always check doneness with a toothpick if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the bread is ready.
Can I Use a Different Size Pan?
This recipe works best in an 8×4-inch loaf pan. If using a larger 9×5-inch pan, the bread may be thinner and bake faster, so check for doneness a few minutes early.
Conclusion
Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread is the perfect combination of sweet, moist banana bread and the warm, comforting spice of cinnamon sugar. Whether you’re baking for yourself, your family, or guests, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.
What makes this banana bread truly special is its simplicity. With minimal ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a foolproof recipe that delivers bakery-quality results at home. Plus, the cinnamon swirl adds a beautiful, flavorful twist that makes each slice irresistible.
So, the next time you find yourself with overripe bananas, don’t just make plain banana bread elevate it with a delicious cinnamon swirl! Try it once, and you’ll be making it again and again. Happy baking!