Introduction

Indulge in the warm, comforting flavors of Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread, a delightful treat combining sweet ripe bananas and aromatic cinnamon. This moist and easy-to-make bread is perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. Each bite offers a nostalgic swirl of flavor that feels like a cozy hug.

A close-up view of a cinnamon swirl cake sliced to show two main layers: the outer light golden-brown crumb layer with a soft, fluffy texture, and the inner darker cinnamon layer spiraled evenly through the center. The top of the cake has a golden-brown crust with a slightly rough texture, drizzled with thin white icing lines. The cake rests on a white plate with a smooth surface on a white marbled background, with a yellow banana blurred softly in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

3 ripe bananas (mashed)
1 cup granulated sugar
1 tsp ground cinnamon
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
2 large eggs
1/3 cup vegetable oil or melted butter
1 tsp vanilla extract
For the cinnamon swirl: 1/4 cup sugar mixed with 1 tbsp cinnamon

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth, releasing their natural sweetness and aroma.
Step 3: Add the granulated sugar, eggs, vegetable oil or melted butter, and vanilla extract to the mashed bananas. Whisk until the mixture is creamy and well combined.
Step 4: In another bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt. Sifting helps keep the batter light and fluffy.
Step 5: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet banana mixture using a spatula. Be careful not to overmix; some lumps are perfectly fine.
Step 6: For the cinnamon swirl, mix 1/4 cup sugar with 1 tablespoon of cinnamon in a small bowl. Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan, sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture over it, then add the remaining batter on top. Swirl gently with a knife to create a marbled effect.
Step 7: Bake in the preheated oven for about 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 8: Let the banana bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving.

Tips & Variations

Use overripe bananas with lots of brown spots for maximum sweetness and moistness.
Avoid overmixing the batter to keep the bread light and tender.
Swap some bananas for applesauce to lighten the bread’s texture.
Add chopped nuts or chocolate chips for extra flavor and texture.
Use melted butter instead of oil for a richer flavor.

Storage

Store cooled banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. For longer storage, wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil and freeze for up to three months. To reheat, warm slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds for a cozy, fresh-baked feel.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a cinnamon swirl loaf cake with a golden brown crust, showing a thick spiral of dark cinnamon sugar running through the soft yellow cake. The top is decorated with thin white icing drizzles gently curving along the surface. The cake sits on a round wooden board. In the blurred background, a yellow banana can be seen on a white marbled texture surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen bananas for Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread?

Yes, thaw frozen bananas completely and drain any excess liquid before mashing. They work great and add the same sweetness and moisture.

How do I know when my banana bread is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the bread is fully baked.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Be sure the blend contains xanthan gum or add it separately to help with texture.