Banana bread is a timeless classic, but when you add a luscious swirl of cinnamon sugar, it transforms into a bakery-worthy delight. This recipe is soft, moist, and loaded with warm flavors—perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert. Plus, it’s a great way to use up those overripe bananas sitting on your counter! Let’s dive into how to make this comforting treat.
Ingredients
For the Banana Bread Batter:
- Ripe Bananas (3 medium)
The riper, the better! Spotty bananas are naturally sweet and perfect for mashing. - All-Purpose Flour (1 ¾ cups)
Provides the structure for the bread. For extra fluffiness, sift the flour before using. - Granulated Sugar (½ cup)
Sweetens the bread just enough without overpowering it. - Brown Sugar (¼ cup)
Adds moisture and a caramel-like depth of flavor. - Eggs (2 large)
Binds the batter together and gives the bread its soft texture. - Unsalted Butter (½ cup, melted)
Adds richness to the bread. You can substitute it with coconut oil for a different flavor. - Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon)
Enhances the sweetness and ties all the flavors together. - Baking Soda (1 teaspoon)
Helps the bread rise and keeps it fluffy. - Salt (½ teaspoon)
Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor. - Ground Cinnamon (½ teaspoon)
Infuses the batter with a hint of warm spice.
For the Cinnamon Swirl:
- Brown Sugar (⅓ cup)
The perfect base for a sweet, gooey swirl. - Ground Cinnamon (1 ½ teaspoons)
Provides that signature warmth and fragrance. - Unsalted Butter (2 tablespoons, melted)
Helps the cinnamon swirl become irresistibly moist and flavorful.
How to Make Classic Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and melted butter. Set aside.
Step 3: Mash the Bananas
In a large bowl, mash the bananas with a fork until smooth. A few small lumps are fine—they add texture to the bread.
Step 4: Combine the Wet Ingredients
To the mashed bananas, add the melted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until everything is well combined.
Step 5: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients using a spatula. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the bread dense.
Step 6: Assemble the Bread
Pour half of the banana bread batter into the prepared loaf pan. Drizzle half of the cinnamon swirl mixture on top and use a knife to gently swirl it into the batter. Repeat with the remaining batter and cinnamon swirl, creating a beautiful marbled effect.
Step 7: Bake
Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top starts browning too quickly, loosely cover it with aluminum foil during the last 10–15 minutes.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Let the banana bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy warm or at room temperature!
Equipment Needed
- 9×5-inch loaf pan
- Mixing bowls (large and small)
- Whisk and spatula
- Fork (for mashing bananas)
- Knife (for swirling)
- Wire rack
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before mashing them for the batter.
How do I know when the banana bread is done?
Insert a toothpick or skewer into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, your bread is ready.
Can I make this banana bread gluten-free?
Absolutely! Replace the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for similar results.
How do I store leftover banana bread?
Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days at room temperature or up to a week in the refrigerator.
Can I freeze banana bread?
Yes! Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Let them thaw at room temperature or microwave them for a quick snack.
Can I add extras like nuts or chocolate chips?
Of course! Fold in ½ cup of chopped walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips into the batter before assembling for extra texture and flavor.
Is there a substitute for butter?
You can use coconut oil, vegetable oil, or even applesauce for a healthier option, though the flavor and texture may vary slightly.
Conclusion
This Classic Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread is a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress. Whether you enjoy it with your morning coffee, as an afternoon snack, or as a cozy dessert, it’s a recipe worth keeping in your rotation. I hope you love it as much as I do.
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