It’s funny the things you remember. I can still picture my mom’s kitchen, the smell of overripe bananas hanging heavy in the air. Every few weeks, those speckled bananas that no one wanted to eat would be transformed into something magical.
She’d pull out her worn-out loaf pan, the one with the slightly dented corner, and start mixing. The best part was always the cinnamon swirl – that sweet, spicy ribbon running through each slice. It always felt like a little surprise.
Now, years later, I find myself doing the same thing. Taking those rejected bananas and turning them into a comforting loaf of cinnamon swirl banana bread. It’s more than just a recipe; it’s a connection to my childhood, a warm hug in every bite. This recipe reminds me of my childhood and is the perfect comfort food. I especially love to pair it with homemade cinnamon rock candy!
Why you’ll love this Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread
- It’s incredibly easy to make, even if you’re not a seasoned baker. This cinnamon swirl banana bread comes together quickly with simple ingredients.
- The cinnamon swirl adds a delightful twist to traditional banana bread, making it extra special. The sweet and spicy flavor is a perfect complement to the banana.
- This recipe is a great way to use up those overripe bananas that are sitting on your counter. No more throwing them away!
- It’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet afternoon treat. This cinnamon swirl banana bread is versatile and satisfying any time of day.
- The aroma of baking cinnamon swirl banana bread fills your kitchen with a warm, inviting scent. Your family will love it!
- You can easily customize it with your favorite add-ins like chopped walnuts or pecans. Experiment and make it your own!
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Cinnamon Swirl:
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
Directions
Step 1
Cinnamon swirl banana bread makes every moment feel uplifting. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
Step 2
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
Step 3
Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract and mashed bananas.
Step 4
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Step 5
In a small bowl, combine the 1/4 cup granulated sugar and cinnamon for the swirl.
Step 6
Pour half of the banana bread batter into the prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the batter. Pour the remaining batter over the cinnamon sugar layer.
Step 7
Use a knife or skewer to swirl the cinnamon sugar into the batter. Be careful not to overmix.
Step 8
Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top starts to brown too quickly, tent the loaf pan with foil.
Step 9
Let the banana bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Variations, pairings, and serving ideas
Variations
There are so many ways to put your own spin on this cinnamon swirl banana bread. Consider adding a handful of chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra texture and flavor. Chocolate chips are also a delicious addition, adding a touch of sweetness that complements the banana and cinnamon perfectly.
For a richer, more decadent flavor, try using brown butter instead of softened butter. Simply melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat, cooking until it turns a golden brown color and has a nutty aroma. Let it cool slightly before adding it to the batter. You can also try other spices, like nutmeg or cardamom, in the swirl for a unique flavor profile.
If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can substitute some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. Start by replacing 1/4 cup of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour and adjust from there based on your preference. You can also add a tablespoon of flaxseed meal for extra nutrients and a slightly nutty flavor.
Pairings
This cinnamon swirl banana bread is delicious on its own, but it’s even better when paired with the right accompaniments. A warm cup of coffee or tea is the perfect complement to a slice of this sweet bread. The warmth of the beverage enhances the comforting flavors of the banana and cinnamon.
For a more substantial meal, try serving it with a side of yogurt or fresh fruit. The tangy yogurt and the sweetness of the fruit provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the banana bread. Consider a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a truly decadent treat. It is perfect any time of the day and would be great with lemon glazed shortbread cookies.
If you’re serving it for brunch, consider pairing it with other breakfast favorites like scrambled eggs or turkey turkey turkey bacon. The savory elements of these dishes balance out the sweetness of the banana bread, creating a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
Serving ideas
Presentation is key when serving this cinnamon swirl banana bread. Slice the loaf evenly and arrange the slices on a platter. Dust with a light coating of powdered sugar for an elegant touch. You can also drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk for added sweetness.
For a more rustic presentation, serve the bread warm with a pat of butter on top. The melting butter adds a rich, glossy finish that is simply irresistible. You can also toast the slices for a crispy texture that enhances the flavor.
Consider cutting the banana bread into cubes and serving it as part of a dessert platter alongside other treats like cookies or brownies. This is a great way to offer a variety of options for your guests to enjoy. Add fresh berries and a sprig of mint for an extra touch of elegance.
Storage and make-ahead tips
Storage
To keep your cinnamon swirl banana bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay moist and delicious for up to 3 days. Make sure the bread is completely cooled before storing it to prevent it from becoming soggy.
For longer storage, you can refrigerate the banana bread in an airtight container for up to a week. However, keep in mind that refrigerating it may slightly dry it out. To revive its moisture, you can warm it up in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.
If you want to store it for even longer, you can freeze slices individually wrapped in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer bag. Frozen banana bread can last for up to 2-3 months. Simply thaw it at room temperature or in the microwave before enjoying.
Make-ahead
This cinnamon swirl banana bread is a great make-ahead option for busy mornings or special occasions. You can prepare the batter ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Be sure to cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.
When you’re ready to bake, simply pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, add the cinnamon swirl, and bake as directed. This allows you to enjoy fresh-baked banana bread without having to spend a lot of time in the kitchen on the day you want to serve it.
Another option is to bake the banana bread ahead of time and freeze it. This is especially convenient if you’re preparing for a large gathering or want to have a treat on hand for whenever you’re craving something sweet. Just thaw and serve!
Common mistakes when making Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread
- Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can lead to a tough, dense banana bread. Mix the wet and dry ingredients until just combined to ensure a tender crumb.
- Using underripe bananas: Ripe bananas are key to a moist and flavorful banana bread. Use bananas that are heavily speckled or even black for the best results.
- Overbaking: Overbaking can result in a dry, crumbly banana bread. Check for doneness by inserting a wooden skewer into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached.
- Not greasing and flouring the pan properly: This can cause the banana bread to stick to the pan, making it difficult to remove. Grease and flour the pan thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Opening the oven door too frequently: This can cause the oven temperature to fluctuate, which can affect the baking time and texture of the banana bread. Avoid opening the oven door unnecessarily.
Final notes
This cinnamon swirl banana bread is more than just a recipe; it’s a hug in a loaf. I hope this recipe brings you as much joy as it has brought me and my family.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations and add-ins to make it your own. The possibilities are endless, and the results are always delicious.
So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to bake a batch of warm, comforting cinnamon swirl banana bread. You won’t regret it!
Loved this Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread? Try these next
- Homemade Cinnamon Rock Candy
- Lemon Glazed Shortbread Cookies
- Cinnamon Rock Candy Recipe
- Key Lime Pound Cake Recipe
- Chinese Coconut Shrimp Recipe
Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread
Warm, comforting banana bread elevated with a delightful cinnamon swirl. This easy recipe is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet afternoon treat.
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Cinnamon Swirl:
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract and mashed bananas.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- In a small bowl, combine the 1/4 cup granulated sugar and cinnamon for the swirl.
- Pour half of the banana bread batter into the prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the batter. Pour the remaining batter over the cinnamon sugar layer.
- Use a knife or skewer to swirl the cinnamon sugar into the batter. Be careful not to overmix.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top starts to brown too quickly, tent the loaf pan with foil.
- Let the banana bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
For extra flavor, add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter. Store cooled banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze slices for longer storage. Serve warm or at room temperature.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 60mg