Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread

Name: Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 1 loaf
Ingredients: 3 ripe bananas, mashed; 1/3 cup melted butter; 1 teaspoon baking soda; Pinch of salt; 3/4 cup sugar; 1 large egg, beaten; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup sugar; 1 tablespoon cinnamon

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

This Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread is the perfect blend of moist, flavorful banana bread with a delightful cinnamon sugar swirl. Easy to make and irresistibly delicious, it's a fantastic way to use up ripe bananas and makes for a cozy breakfast or snack treat. Your kitchen will be filled with the warm aroma of cinnamon as it bakes, making it an ideal choice for family gatherings or a sweet brunch option.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-11-11T21:35:09.361Z

This delightful recipe combines the rich flavors of banana with a sweet cinnamon swirl that is sure to please everyone.

The Magic of Ripe Bananas

Ripe bananas are the star ingredient in this Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread. The natural sugars that develop in overripe bananas not only enhance the sweetness of the bread but also contribute to its moist texture. Using ripe bananas is a fantastic way to prevent food waste while creating a delicious treat that your family will adore.

When choosing bananas for this recipe, look for those with lots of brown spots or a nearly brown peel. These bananas are soft and ripe, perfect for mashing. The mashing process incorporates the flavors into the batter seamlessly, allowing you to enjoy every bite of this sweet, cinnamon-infused delight.

Cinnamon: A Flavor Powerhouse

Cinnamon is a versatile spice known for its warm and comforting flavor. It's not only a key component in this recipe, enhancing the taste with its sweet and spicy notes, but it also has numerous health benefits. Rich in antioxidants, cinnamon can help fight inflammation and lower blood sugar levels, making it a delightful and health-conscious choice for your baking.

The combination of cinnamon and sugar creates a mouthwatering swirl that elevates the classic banana bread experience. As it bakes, the aroma of cinnamon fills your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around and share the anticipation of enjoying a warm slice straight from the oven.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread is not just a breakfast staple; it's perfect for any occasion! Whether you’re hosting a brunch with friends, looking for a cozy snack for your family, or needing a sweet treat for a gathering, this recipe fits the bill. Its inviting aroma and beautiful presentation are sure to impress your guests.

You can also customize this recipe to suit various dietary preferences. Consider adding nuts or chocolate chips for an extra treat, or experiment with gluten-free flour if you have dietary restrictions. This banana bread is simple to adapt, ensuring everyone at your table will find joy in every slice.

Ingredients

For the Banana Bread

3 ripe bananas, mashed
1/3 cup melted butter
1 teaspoon baking soda
Pinch of salt
3/4 cup sugar
1 large egg, beaten
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour

For the Cinnamon Swirl

1/4 cup sugar
1 tablespoon cinnamon

Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.

Mix the Batter

In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas with melted butter. Mix in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract. Stir in the baking soda and salt, then add the flour and mix just until incorporated.

Prepare the Cinnamon Filling

In a small bowl, mix together the sugar and cinnamon for the swirl.

Layer the Ingredients

Pour half of the banana bread batter into the prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon filling on top. Pour the remaining batter over this and sprinkle with the remaining cinnamon filling.

Bake

Bake for 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Slice and enjoy!

Serve warm or at room temperature, perhaps with a spread of butter.

Storing and Freezing Tips

To keep your Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you’d like to enjoy it for a longer period, freezing is an excellent option. Simply wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to three months.

When you're ready to indulge again, thaw the bread overnight in the refrigerator or leave it out at room temperature for a few hours. You can also pop slices in the toaster to warm them up and restore that fresh-baked flavor.

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with this Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread recipe! Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for a satisfying crunch, or throw in some chocolate chips for an indulgent twist. You might also consider mixing in dried fruits such as raisins or cranberries to introduce a touch of tartness that beautifully complements the sweetness of the bananas.

If you're feeling adventurous, try a different swirl mixture! Instead of cinnamon and sugar, you could use cocoa powder for a chocolatey twist or even a swirl of peanut butter for a nutty flavor. The possibilities are endless, making this banana bread recipe one that you’ll want to revisit over and over.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas?

Yes, just make sure they are fully thawed and drained of excess moisture.

→ How do I store leftover banana bread?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate it for a week.