If you have a soft spot for banana bread with a cozy twist, this Classic Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread Recipe is about to become your new obsession. Imagine the tender, moist crumb of banana bread combined with a sweet cinnamon swirl that cuts through every bite with warming spice. It’s the perfect combination of simple ingredients coming together to create a comforting, aromatic treat that fills your kitchen with an irresistible smell while delivering a flavor that’s both familiar and wonderfully satisfying. Whether you need a delightful breakfast, a snack, or a sweet ending to your day, this recipe hits all the right notes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Classic Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread Recipe calls for straightforward, everyday ingredients that do all the heavy lifting flavor-wise. Each one is essential not just for taste but for the perfect texture, moisture, and those gorgeous golden tones that make banana bread so inviting.
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed: The sweeter and more ripe, the better—they add natural moisture and a rich banana flavor.
- 1/2 cup sugar: Provides sweetness and helps create a tender crumb.
- 1/4 cup butter, melted: Adds richness and a slight buttery depth to the bread.
- 1 egg: Binds the batter and helps with the bread’s structure.
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The backbone of the bread, gives it body.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Ensures the bread rises just right, keeping it light and fluffy.
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon: Integrated into the batter for subtle spice.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances flavors and enhances sweetness.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar: Used in the swirl for a deeper, caramel-like sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon (for swirl): Creates that iconic cinnamon swirl, adding warmth and visual appeal.
How to Make Classic Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan
Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing your loaf pan thoroughly. This ensures your banana bread bakes evenly and releases easily from the pan once it’s done, which means your beautiful loaf stays intact for slicing and serving.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, mash those ripe bananas until smooth and creamy—this is where flavor magic begins. Add the sugar, melted butter, and egg to the bananas and mix until everything is well combined. This wet mixture brings moisture and sweetness, the heart of the Classic Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread Recipe.
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
Separately whisk together your all-purpose flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. This dry mix ensures the bread rises properly, highlights the cinnamon’s warmth, and balances the sweetness of the batter.
Step 4: Bring Everything Together
Pour the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently just until combined. Be careful not to overmix; this keeps the bread tender and moist instead of dense. Your batter is almost ready for that signature cinnamon swirl.
Step 5: Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl
In a small bowl, blend the brown sugar with an extra tablespoon of cinnamon. This simple swirl adds a touch of gooey sweetness and sparkle of spice that makes every bite unforgettable in the Classic Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread Recipe.
Step 6: Layer and Create the Swirl
Pour half the batter into your loaf pan, then sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly on top. Add the remaining batter over that, then take a butter knife to gently swirl the cinnamon layer into the bread batter. This technique creates those gorgeous cinnamon ribbons you’ll love biting into.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Pop the loaf pan into your preheated oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes. Look for that beautiful golden brown color and test with a toothpick in the center—it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. This step locks in all the flavors and delivers a perfect crumb every time.
Step 8: Cool and Unpan
Once baked, let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes to set. Then transfer it onto a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. Cooling allows flavors to settle and prevents the bread from falling apart when cut, showcasing the lovely cinnamon swirl inside.
How to Serve Classic Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate the presentation, consider dusting the top with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar or a sprinkle of cinnamon. A few toasted chopped walnuts or pecans on top can add a delightful crunch that pairs splendidly with the soft texture of the bread.
Side Dishes
This banana bread shines on its own but pairs effortlessly with a spread of creamy butter, honey, or even a smear of cream cheese. For brunch, serve alongside fresh fruit or a steaming cup of coffee or chai, which beautifully complement the cinnamon flavor.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice the bread thick and use it as a base for French toast for an extra indulgent breakfast. Or cube it and serve as a sweet addition to a dessert bread pudding. The cinnamon swirl turns any adaptation into a cozy, crowd-pleasing treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap leftover banana bread tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This keeps it from drying out and preserves that wonderful moist texture you worked so hard to achieve with the Classic Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread Recipe.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, slice the bread first and freeze individual pieces wrapped in plastic and then foil for up to two months. This way, you can thaw just what you need for a quick snack or breakfast.
Reheating
Reheat slices gently in a toaster oven or microwave for about 15-20 seconds to bring back that soft warmth and fresh-from-the-oven feel. Adding a little butter before warming can enhance the flavor even more.
FAQs
Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before mashing so your batter doesn’t become too runny.
What if I don’t have cinnamon on hand?
While cinnamon is key to this Classic Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread Recipe, you could experiment with other warm spices like nutmeg or pumpkin pie spice, though the signature cinnamon flavor will be missed.
How do I know when the bread is done baking?
The best way is to insert a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, the bread is perfectly baked.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that’s suitable for baking. Just keep an eye on the texture, as gluten-free breads may need slight adjustments in moisture.
Is this banana bread suitable for freezing?
Definitely. This recipe freezes wonderfully, making it an ideal make-ahead option for busy days or unexpected guests.
Final Thoughts
This Classic Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread Recipe brings together warm spices and fruity sweetness in a way that feels like a hug from your oven. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it won’t just be another banana bread; it will be your go-to comfort recipe that friends and family will keep asking for. So grab those bananas, savor the cinnamon aroma, and bake your way to cozy deliciousness!
Print
Classic Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Classic Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread is a moist and flavorful treat featuring ripe bananas and a delightful cinnamon sugar swirl. Perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack, this easy-to-make bread combines the natural sweetness of bananas with warm cinnamon spices baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1 egg
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Cinnamon Swirl
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan to ensure the banana bread won’t stick.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the mashed bananas, sugar, melted butter, and egg. Stir thoroughly until the mixture is well blended and smooth.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt to ensure even distribution of the dry components.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender.
- Prepare Cinnamon Swirl: In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and 1 tablespoon cinnamon to create the cinnamon sugar swirl.
- Layer the Batter: Pour half of the banana bread batter into the prepared loaf pan. Evenly sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar mixture over the batter.
- Create the Swirl: Pour the remaining batter on top of the cinnamon sugar layer. Using a knife, gently swirl the batter to create an attractive cinnamon swirl pattern.
- Bake: Place the loaf pan in the oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then remove it from the pan and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Notes
- Use very ripe bananas for the best flavor and moisture.
- Do not overmix the batter to avoid a dense bread texture.
- Add chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the batter for variation.
- Check the bread at 50 minutes to prevent overbaking.
- Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
