Cinnamon Swirled Banana Bread

There’s a certain magic that happens when ripe bananas meet a ribbon of sweet cinnamon. My Cinnamon Swirled Banana Bread is a testament to that simple, delightful combination. It bakes up wonderfully moist and tender. The subtle ribbon of spice adds a touch of warmth that makes every slice feel like a cozy hug.

This bread is perfect for those moments when you need a quick, comforting treat. It’s my go-to for busy mornings with coffee. It also makes a lovely dessert for unexpected guests because it always disappears so fast!

Why I Love This Cinnamon Swirled Banana Bread

This easy banana bread recipe is a winner for so many reasons. It’s incredibly quick to whip up.

• You’ll have a warm loaf in under two hours.
• The cinnamon swirl adds a special touch.
• It’s perfect for a weeknight dessert or weekend brunch.
• It tastes like pure comfort in every bite!

Cinnamon Swirled Banana Bread Ingredients

Gathering the ingredients for this easy banana bread recipe feels like bringing together a hug in a loaf pan! The blend of sweet bananas and warm cinnamon creates something truly special. It’s a simple mix that yields delicious results every time.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• All-Purpose Flour: This forms the sturdy base of our loaf.
• Baking Soda: Our leavening agent helps the bread rise beautifully.
• Salt: Just a pinch enhances all the other flavors.
• Unsalted Butter: Softened butter adds richness and tenderness.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the bread and helps with browning.
• Large Eggs: They bind everything together and add moisture.
• Vanilla Extract: A classic pairing that boosts sweetness.
• Ripe Bananas: The star! Make sure they’re spotty for the best sweetness.
• Sour Cream or Plain Yogurt: This is my secret for extra moist banana bread.

And for that irresistible swirl:

• Packed Light Brown Sugar: Adds a caramel-like depth.
• Ground Cinnamon: Brings the warm spice we all adore.
• Melted Butter: Helps the cinnamon sugar mixture bind and spread.

Substitutions and Tips

Don’t have sour cream? Plain Greek yogurt works wonderfully. For an even richer flavor, try using melted coconut oil instead of butter in the batter. If you love nuts, about half a cup of chopped walnuts or pecans stirred into the batter is a fantastic addition.

Remember, the exact amounts are in the printable recipe card below for your convenience!

How to Make Cinnamon Swirled Banana Bread

Let’s get baking this delicious banana bread!

Step 1: Get Ready

First, preheat your oven. Set it to 350°F (175°C). Now, grease and flour a loaf pan. A standard 9×5 inch pan works great for this recipe.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

Grab a medium bowl. Whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. This simple step ensures everything is evenly distributed.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, start creaming your softened butter and sugar. Beat them together until they look light and fluffy. Then, add the eggs, one at a time. Beat well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract. This creates our sweet, flavorful base.

Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients

Now, add the mashed bananas to this mixture. Also, add your sour cream or yogurt. Mix them gently until just combined. You don’t want to blend too much here.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Mix until they are just combined. It’s really important not to overmix the batter. Overmixing can make your homemade banana bread tough. A few streaks of flour are okay.

Step 6: Make the Cinnamon Swirl

Time for the best part: the cinnamon swirl! In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar and cinnamon. Add the melted butter. Stir it all together. It should form a nice paste.

Step 7: Layer the Batter

Pour half of the banana bread batter into your prepared loaf pan. Next, drop half of that yummy cinnamon swirl mixture by spoonfuls over the batter. Gently swirl it with a knife. Create pretty patterns in the bread.

Step 8: Finish Layering and Swirling

Pour the rest of your banana bread batter on top. Then, dollop the remaining cinnamon swirl mixture over this layer. Swirl it again with your knife. Aim for ribbons of cinnamon goodness throughout the loaf.

Step 9: Bake Your Banana Bread

Place the pan in the preheated oven. Bake for 50 to 65 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. A beautiful, easy banana bread is almost ready!

Step 10: Cool and Enjoy

Let the loaf cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This helps it set up. Then, carefully transfer it to a wire rack. Let it cool completely before slicing. This step is key for the best texture and neat slices.

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How to Store Cinnamon Swirled Banana Bread

Once your delicious Cinnamon Swirled Banana Bread has cooled completely, storing it is simple. You can keep it fresh at room temperature for up to three days. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.

For longer storage, wrap it well and freeze it. It keeps beautifully in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw on the counter or gently reheat slices.

Tips for Success

• Use very ripe bananas for maximum flavor.
• Do not overmix the batter. It makes the bread tough.
• Measure your flour correctly. Spoon it into the cup, then level it.
• Let the bread cool fully. This is crucial for clean slices.
• For an extra moist loaf, try adding a tablespoon of oil.
• Taste your batter; you can always add more cinnamon.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

To make this easy banana bread, you’ll want a few basics.

• Loaf pan (9×5 inch). A standard metal pan works best.
• Mixing bowls (medium and large).
• Whisk and rubber spatula.
• Measuring cups and spoons.
• A knife for swirling.
• Wire rack for cooling.

Serving Suggestions

This Cinnamon Swirled Banana Bread is wonderful on its own.

• Serve warm slices with a dollop of whipped cream.
• A drizzle of honey or maple syrup is also delicious.
• Enjoy a slice with a hot cup of coffee or tea.
• It makes a fantastic base for french toast!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this cinnamon banana bread ahead of time?

Absolutely! This easy banana bread recipe is perfect for making ahead. Once baked and cooled, wrap it tightly. It stays fresh on the counter for a few days. For longer keeping, freeze it well!

What if I don’t have ripe bananas?

Very ripe bananas with brown spots are best for sweetness and moisture. If yours aren’t super ripe, you can speed things up a bit. Try baking them on a sheet pan at 300°F (150°C) for about 15-20 minutes until they soften and darken.

Can I use a different type of flour?

While all-purpose flour is recommended for the best texture, you can experiment cautiously. Whole wheat flour can be used, often in a 50/50 mix with all-purpose. Gluten-free blends made for baking usually work well too, but results can vary.

My swirl didn’t show up as much. What did I do wrong?

Don’t worry, it happens! Ensure your batter isn’t too thick or too thin. Also, be sure to dollop the cinnamon swirl mixture generously before swirling. A gentle swirl with a knife is key; overmixing can blend it in too much.