Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread is the perfect treat for banana bread lovers who enjoy a little extra sweetness and warmth. The cinnamon swirl adds a cozy, spiced flavor that perfectly complements the soft, banana-flavored loaf. It’s easy to make, versatile enough to adapt to different preferences, and yields a beautifully marbled loaf that’s both visually appealing and delicious. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced baker, this recipe is bound to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.

Ingredients

• 3 ripe bananas, mashed

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 1 large egg, beaten

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon baking soda

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

• 1/4 cup brown sugar

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.

2. In a large bowl, mix the mashed bananas, melted butter, granulated sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.

3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until incorporated.

4. In a small bowl, combine the ground cinnamon and brown sugar to create the cinnamon swirl mixture.

5. Pour half of the banana bread batter into the loaf pan. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon mixture evenly over the batter. Pour the remaining batter on top, then sprinkle the remaining cinnamon mixture.

6. Using a knife or skewer, gently swirl the cinnamon mixture through the batter to create a marbled effect.

7. Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. If the bread starts to brown too quickly, tent with foil.

8. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 10 servings

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cooking Time: 65 minutes

• Total Time: 80 minutes

• Calories: 320 kcal per slice

Variations

• Add-ins: You can customize this recipe by adding chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for added texture.

• Fruit: Try adding small pieces of chopped apple for a fruity twist that pairs perfectly with the cinnamon swirl.

• Glaze: For extra sweetness, drizzle a simple vanilla glaze over the cooled bread. Simply mix powdered sugar, milk (or cream), and vanilla extract to create a smooth, pourable icing.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. If you prefer, you can also wrap it in plastic wrap and foil to extend its freshness.

• Freezing: This banana bread freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

• Reheating: To reheat, simply warm a slice in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or place it in a 350°F oven for 5-10 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen bananas in this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen bananas. Just thaw them and drain any excess liquid before mashing.

2. Can I substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour?

Yes, whole wheat flour can be used as a substitute, though it may slightly alter the texture, making it denser.

3. Can I add nuts to the banana bread batter?

Absolutely! Chopped walnuts, pecans, or any nuts of your choice can be added for extra texture and flavor.

4. Is the cinnamon swirl necessary for this recipe?

While the cinnamon swirl adds a lot of flavor and visual appeal, you can omit it if you prefer plain banana bread.

5. Can I make this into muffins instead of a loaf?

Yes, this recipe can easily be made into muffins. Bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

6. Can I omit the vanilla icing?

The icing is optional, but it adds a nice sweetness and smooth contrast to the bread. If you prefer, you can skip it.

7. How do I know when the bread is done baking?

The bread is done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. If it’s too brown on top, tent with foil to prevent burning.

8. How long should I let the bread cool before slicing?

Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

9. Can I use dairy-free butter in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute dairy-free butter or another plant-based fat for the unsalted butter.

10. How long can I store this banana bread?

Banana bread will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days at room temperature, or you can freeze it for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

This Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread is a delightful twist on a classic favorite. With its marbled cinnamon-sugar swirl, moist texture, and optional vanilla glaze, it’s perfect for breakfast, snacking, or dessert. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a beginner, this recipe is simple to follow and yields a flavorful, indulgent loaf. Enjoy it fresh out of the oven or store it for later – it’s sure to become a go-to recipe in your baking collection.