If you’re craving a comforting, moist treat that beautifully balances sweet bananas with warm, aromatic spices, the Classic Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread Recipe is here to steal your heart. This recipe takes your everyday banana bread to the next level by adding a delectably sweet cinnamon swirl that brings a touch of spice and sweetness in every bite. It’s the perfect companion for morning coffee, an afternoon snack, or a cozy dessert that always delivers that homemade warmth. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying banana bread for the first time, this recipe’s simple ingredients and easy steps guarantee a delightful, crowd-pleasing loaf every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this Classic Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread Recipe, you’ll only need straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that work harmoniously to create perfect texture and flavors. Each component plays an essential role, from moisture and sweetness to that unmistakable cinnamon kick.
- 3 ripe bananas (mashed): Overripe bananas add natural sweetness and keep the bread wonderfully moist.
- 1/3 cup melted butter: Adds richness and tender crumb to the bread.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Provides balanced sweetness without overpowering the banana flavor.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar: Adds deeper, caramel-like notes to the batter.
- 1 large egg: Binds the ingredients and gives structure to the bread.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor, adding a warm, fragrant touch.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the bread rise perfectly and become light.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances the flavors.
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The base that gives the bread structure and body.
- For the cinnamon swirl: 1/3 cup brown sugar and 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon, creating that signature cinnamon-sugar ribbon throughout the loaf.
How to Make Classic Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and greasing a 9×5-inch loaf pan. This ensures your banana bread bakes evenly and releases easily once it’s done. Proper prep sets the stage for a flawless bake!
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the mashed bananas and melted butter. This duo offers the perfect moist base. Then stir in your granulated sugar, brown sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until everything is smoothly blended, creating a rich and flavorful batter.
Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients
Sprinkle in the baking soda and salt to the wet mixture; these are the secret agents for that light, airy texture. Next, gently fold in the flour just until combined — be careful not to overmix or the bread might turn tough.
Step 4: Create the Cinnamon Swirl
In a small bowl, mix together the cinnamon and brown sugar that will become your irresistible swirl. Pour half of the banana batter into your prepared pan, then sprinkle half of that cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the top. Layer the remaining batter, then finish by sprinkling the rest of the cinnamon mixture.
Step 5: Swirl and Bake
Take a knife and gently swirl the cinnamon sugar into the batter to create beautiful ribbons of cinnamon throughout the bread. Pop it in your preheated oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes. Once a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, your bread is done and smelling heavenly.
Step 6: Cool and Enjoy
Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. This rest time helps it set, making each slice perfect and tidy.
How to Serve Classic Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra special touch, consider topping your banana bread slices with a light drizzle of honey, a smear of herbed cream cheese, or a dusting of powdered sugar. These little garnishes bring an elegant finish and add just a hint of extra flavor that complements the cinnamon swirl beautifully.
Side Dishes
This classic treat pairs wonderfully with warm drinks like coffee, chai tea, or even a spiced latte. For a fuller breakfast, serve alongside fresh fruit or a dollop of Greek yogurt to balance the bread’s sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn your Classic Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread Recipe into an unforgettable gift by wrapping slices in parchment paper tied with twine. Or, layer thick slices with cream cheese frosting and nuts for a decadent banana bread cake that will wow your friends and family.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap your banana bread in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps it moist and fresh without drying out.
Freezing
Want to save some for later? Wrap the whole loaf or individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight at room temperature before enjoying.
Reheating
Warm slices gently in the microwave for about 20 seconds or toast lightly to revive that fresh-baked warmth and bring out the wonderful cinnamon fragrance anew.
FAQs
Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen bananas work perfectly as long as you thaw and mash them thoroughly before mixing. They’re a great way to always have ripe bananas on hand for this Classic Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread Recipe.
What if I don’t have brown sugar for the cinnamon swirl?
You can substitute with white sugar mixed with a bit of molasses or honey for that caramel flavor. Brown sugar does add a nice depth, but the bread will still taste delicious without it.
Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to the batter?
Sure! Adding 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or chocolate chips to the batter gives a delightful crunch or extra sweetness. Just toss them in during the step when you add the flour.
How do I know when the banana bread is done baking?
The best test is to insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, your bread is perfectly baked and ready to cool.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, it is! The Classic Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread Recipe contains no meat or fish products and is entirely vegetarian-friendly.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting about the aroma of cinnamon and bananas baking in your oven, and this Classic Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread Recipe delivers that in every tender slice. It’s a recipe that feels like a warm hug from your kitchen and is sure to become a beloved staple. I can’t wait for you to try it and share the joy that comes from biting into that cinnamon-kissed, moist banana bread!
Print
Classic Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (about 10 slices)
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Classic Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread is a moist and flavorful treat featuring ripe bananas and a delightful cinnamon sugar swirl. This easy-to-make dessert combines sweet mashed bananas with warm cinnamon, resulting in a tender, aromatic loaf perfect for breakfast, snack, or dessert.
Ingredients
Banana Bread
- 3 ripe bananas (mashed)
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
Cinnamon Swirl
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan to prevent sticking.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the mashed ripe bananas with the melted butter, stirring until smooth and well blended.
- Add Sugars and Egg: Stir in granulated sugar, brown sugar, the large egg, and vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly to incorporate all ingredients.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Sprinkle baking soda and salt over the mixture, then add the all-purpose flour. Stir gently until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender.
- Prepare Cinnamon Swirl Mix: In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and ground cinnamon until evenly combined.
- Layer Batter and Cinnamon Swirl: Pour half of the banana batter into the prepared loaf pan. Evenly sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar mixture over the batter. Add the remaining batter on top and then sprinkle with the remaining cinnamon sugar mixture.
- Create the Swirl: Use a knife to gently swirl the cinnamon sugar into the batter, creating a marbled effect without overmixing.
- Bake: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving.
Notes
- For extra richness and texture, add 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or chocolate chips to the batter before baking.
- Use overripe bananas for the best flavor and moisture in the bread.
