Cinnamon Swirled Banana Bread

Swirls of buttery cinnamon sugar swim throughout the moistest banana bread that’s out of this world delicious! Cinnamon Swirled Banana Bread is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a delightful snack. With its warm spices and rich flavors, this recipe is sure to impress at any gathering or cozy evening in. The unique cinnamon swirl elevates the classic banana bread, making it a standout treat that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of ripe bananas and sweet cinnamon creates a mouthwatering experience.
• Easy to Make: This recipe requires simple ingredients and straightforward steps, perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it fresh from the oven, toasted with butter, or as a dessert with ice cream.
• Perfectly Moist: The addition of mashed bananas ensures that every slice is soft and tender.
• Great for Meal Prep: Bake a loaf ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week for breakfast or snacks.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making your Cinnamon Swirled Banana Bread, gather your tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Loaf pan (9×5-inch)
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Fork
• Table knife or wooden spoon
• Baking sheet

Importance of Each Tool

• Loaf pan: A sturdy loaf pan ensures even baking and the perfect shape for your banana bread.
• Mixing bowls: Having multiple sizes helps in organizing ingredients while mixing effectively.
• Whisk: Essential for combining wet ingredients smoothly before incorporating dry ones.

Ingredients

To whip up this delightful Cinnamon Swirled Banana Bread, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Bread Base

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 and 1/2 cups mashed ripe banana (about 4 bananas)

For the Cinnamon Sugar Swirl

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 3 tablespoons dark brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon

For Garnishing

• 6 thin slices of ripe banana

How to Make Cinnamon Swirled Banana Bread

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set it aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Batter

In a large bowl:
1. Melt the butter and let it cool slightly.
2. Whisk in the granulated sugar until well combined.
3. Add in the eggs one at a time, along with the vanilla extract.
4. Stir in the all-purpose flour and baking soda until just combined.
5. Gently fold in the mashed bananas until fully integrated but avoid over-mixing.

Step 3: Make the Cinnamon Sugar Swirl

In a small bowl:
1. Use a fork to mix together the melted butter, granulated sugar, dark brown sugar, and ground cinnamon until thick but spreadable.
2. If too thick, add an extra tablespoon of melted butter; if too thin, adjust with more sugar.

Step 4: Layering Your Bread

1. Spread about 1/4 of your batter (approximately 1 cup) into the bottom of your prepared loaf pan.
2. Dollop 1/4 of your cinnamon sugar mixture over this layer.
3. Use a table knife or wooden spoon to create swirls through this layer.
4. Repeat this process by adding another third of batter followed by another third of cinnamon mixture, then half of what remains, swirling each time until all batter is used.

Step 5: Final Touches

Spread any remaining batter on top, dolloping with leftover cinnamon mixture and creating large swirls throughout. Place six thin slices of ripe banana down the center.

Step 6: Bake Your Loaf

Place your loaf pan on a baking sheet in the center rack of your oven. Bake for 60-70 minutes until golden brown; test doneness with a toothpick inserted into the center.

Step 7: Cool Before Serving

Once baked, allow your banana bread to cool in its pan for at least 30 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Enjoy your deliciously moist Cinnamon Swirled Banana Bread warm or at room temperature!

How to Serve Cinnamon Swirled Banana Bread

Cinnamon Swirled Banana Bread is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you prefer it warm out of the oven or toasted with a spread, there are many delicious options to enhance your experience.

For Breakfast

• With Butter: Spread a generous layer of butter on warm slices for a classic, rich flavor.
• With Nut Butter: Almond or peanut butter adds protein and a nutty taste that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the bread.

As a Snack

• With Fresh Fruit: Serve alongside slices of fresh fruit like strawberries or blueberries for a refreshing contrast.
• With Yogurt: Enjoy it with a bowl of yogurt for a satisfying snack that combines creaminess and sweetness.

For Dessert

• Topped with Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream on warm banana bread creates an indulgent dessert.
• Drizzled with Honey: A drizzle of honey enhances the sweetness and adds a lovely shine to each slice.

How to Perfect Cinnamon Swirled Banana Bread

To achieve the most amazing Cinnamon Swirled Banana Bread, consider these helpful tips for success.

• Use Ripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be. Look for bananas with plenty of brown spots.
• Measure Ingredients Accurately: Accurate measurements ensure the right texture. Consider using a kitchen scale for precision.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix until just combined to prevent dense bread. Overmixing can lead to tough results.
• Check Doneness: Use a toothpick inserted into the center; it should come out clean when ready. If not, bake longer but cover with foil if browning too much.

Best Side Dishes for Cinnamon Swirled Banana Bread

Pairing side dishes with your Cinnamon Swirled Banana Bread can elevate your meal further. Here are some tasty options to consider.

1. Greek Yogurt: Creamy and tangy, Greek yogurt adds a healthy protein boost and complements the sweetness beautifully.
2. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides freshness and balances the richness of the banana bread.
3. Chai Tea: The spiced flavors of chai tea pair well with cinnamon, making it an excellent beverage choice.
4. Coffee: A cup of freshly brewed coffee enhances breakfast or afternoon snacks with its bold flavor.
5. Smoothie Bowl: Blend your favorite fruits into a smoothie bowl topped with granola for added crunch and nutrition.
6. Cheese Platter: Soft cheeses like brie or mascarpone offer creamy textures that contrast nicely with the sweet banana bread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking the perfect Cinnamon Swirled Banana Bread can be tricky. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Using under ripe bananas: Always use ripe bananas for the best flavor and moisture. The sweeter, the better!
• Overmixing the batter: Mix just until combined to ensure a light texture. Overmixing will lead to dense bread.
• Skipping the cooling time: Allow your bread to cool in the pan before transferring it. This helps maintain its structure.
• Not measuring ingredients properly: Use measuring cups and spoons for accuracy. Incorrect measurements can affect the outcome.
• Ignoring baking time: Keep an eye on your bread; ovens vary. Test with a toothpick to determine doneness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container or wrap tightly in plastic wrap.
• Keeps well for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Cinnamon Swirled Banana Bread

• Wrap slices or the whole loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then foil.
• Best consumed within 2-3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Cinnamon Swirled Banana Bread

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm for about 10 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices for 15-20 seconds for a quick warm-up.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a pan over low heat, flipping occasionally until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Cinnamon Swirled Banana Bread:

Can I use frozen bananas for Cinnamon Swirled Banana Bread?

Yes! Thaw them first and drain any excess liquid before using them in your recipe.

How do I know when my Cinnamon Swirled Banana Bread is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s ready!

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to my banana bread?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize by adding walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips for extra flavor.

What should I do if my batter is too thick?

If your batter seems too thick, try adding a tablespoon of milk or fruit juice to loosen it up.

Final Thoughts

Cinnamon Swirled Banana Bread is not only delicious but also versatile. You can enjoy it plain or customize it with your favorite add-ins like nuts or chocolate chips. Its rich flavors and delightful swirls make it perfect for breakfast or as a sweet treat any time of day. Give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Cinnamon Swirled Banana Bread

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Indulge in the delightful experience of our Cinnamon Swirled Banana Bread, a moist and flavorful treat perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as an afternoon snack. This recipe features a rich banana base enhanced by a luscious cinnamon sugar swirl, creating an irresistible combination that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Whether enjoyed warm straight from the oven or toasted with a spread, this banana bread is sure to impress at any gathering or cozy night in. With easy-to-follow instructions and simple ingredients, you can whip up this comforting classic in no time!

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 and 1/2 cups mashed ripe bananas (about 4 bananas)
• For the Cinnamon Sugar Swirl: 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 3 tablespoons dark brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, combine melted butter and granulated sugar. Whisk in eggs and vanilla until smooth.
3. Stir in flour and baking soda until just combined, then fold in mashed bananas gently.
4. In a separate bowl, mix melted butter with sugars and cinnamon for the swirl.
5. Layer half the batter into the loaf pan, dollop with half the swirl mixture, then repeat with remaining batter and swirl.
6. Bake for 60-70 minutes until golden brown; test doneness with a toothpick inserted into the center.
7. Allow cooling in the pan for at least 30 minutes before slicing.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 65 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 205
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 160mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 26g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 40mg