Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Experience the perfect blend of moist banana bread and delightful cinnamon swirls with this Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread recipe. Bursting with flavor and simple to make, this indulgent treat is perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. Your family and friends will be asking for seconds as they enjoy every slice of this deliciously comforting loaf.
This Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread is a family favorite, ensuring that no banana ever goes wasted. With a simple batter enhanced by a swirl of cinnamon sugar, each slice is a delightful treat to savor.
The Perfect Breakfast Treat
Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread is not only a feast for the taste buds but also an ideal breakfast option. As a quick, grab-and-go meal, it keeps you energized and satisfied throughout the morning. The natural sweetness of ripe bananas pairs beautifully with the aromatic cinnamon, creating a wholesome start to your day. Serve it warm with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey for an extra special touch.
Moreover, this banana bread recipe offers a unique twist on traditional breakfast staples. Unlike regular toast or cereal, this indulgent loaf provides a comforting blend of textures and flavors that will delight your family. Whether served alongside a steaming cup of coffee or tea, it's a perfect accompaniment that elevates your breakfast experience.
Versatile Snack or Dessert
Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread is versatile enough to serve as both a snack or a dessert, making it a favorite among both kids and adults alike. Its moist texture and rich flavor profile mean it can easily stand alone as a sweet treat or be enjoyed with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert after dinner. This adaptability makes it a great option for various occasions, from casual family gatherings to more formal celebrations.
Additionally, this banana bread is perfect for meal prepping and snacking throughout the week. You can bake a loaf on the weekend and slice it up for quick snacks during busy weekdays. Whether you're on the run, having a midday craving, or winding down in the evening, a slice of this banana bread can always hit the spot.
A Healthy Option that Doesn't Compromise on Flavor
While indulgent in flavor, Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread is also a healthier option compared to many store-bought sweets. Using ripe bananas as a sweetener significantly reduces the need for added sugars, while the whole ingredients contribute to a fulfilling snack without guilt. With the addition of whole grains and natural ingredients like cinnamon and brown sugar, you can savor the deliciousness without worrying too much about calories.
It's worth noting that this banana bread provides a nutritious source of fiber and essential nutrients, allowing you to indulge in sweetness while still being health-conscious. Customizable with optional nuts or chocolate chips, you can tailor this recipe to meet your dietary preferences while still delivering a burst of flavor in every bite.
Ingredients
Gather your ingredients before starting:
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 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results!
Instructions
Follow these steps to make your delicious banana bread:
Prepare the Batter
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter with the mashed bananas, baking soda, and salt. Mix until smooth. Then stir in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract. Finally, fold in the flour until just combined.
Make the Cinnamon Swirl
In a separate bowl, mix the brown sugar and ground cinnamon together. Set aside.
Combine and Bake
Pour half of the banana bread batter into a greased loaf pan. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar mixture over the batter. Then, add the remaining batter on top and finish with the remaining cinnamon sugar. Use a knife to swirl the mixture gently.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow to cool before slicing.
Enjoy your freshly baked cinnamon swirl banana bread!
Tips for Perfect Banana Bread
To achieve the best flavor and texture, always use overripe bananas. The dark spots indicate maximum sweetness, making your bread delightful. As an added tip, mash them well to ensure an even distribution throughout the batter, giving you that perfect, moist loaf.
When measuring flour, be cautious and avoid packing it down. Use the spoon-and-level method: spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife to avoid dense banana bread. Remember, the right measurements lead to captivating results.
Storage 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 want to save some for later, it freezes beautifully. Slice the loaf and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing it in a freezer-safe bag. It can last up to three months in the freezer without losing its flavor.
When ready to enjoy, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or pop it in the microwave for a quick warm-up. You'll have fresh-tasting banana bread ready to go, making it an ideal choice for busy days.
Variations to Try
Feeling adventurous? You can easily customize your Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread by adding nuts like walnuts or pecans for a satisfying crunch. Chocolate chips can bring an extra level of sweetness, making it a favorite among chocolate lovers, especially for dessert.
For a tropical twist, consider adding shredded coconut or a hint of pineapple for a unique flavor profile. You can also swap the all-purpose flour with whole wheat or gluten-free flour for a healthier alternative that meets your dietary needs. Experiment and discover your favorite version of this delightful loaf!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen bananas?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw and drain them before mashing.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Wrap the banana bread in plastic wrap and store it at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread
Experience the perfect blend of moist banana bread and delightful cinnamon swirls with this Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread recipe. Bursting with flavor and simple to make, this indulgent treat is perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. Your family and friends will be asking for seconds as they enjoy every slice of this deliciously comforting loaf.
Created by: Nora Ellis
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 1 loaf
What You'll Need
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 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter with the mashed bananas, baking soda, and salt. Mix until smooth. Then stir in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract. Finally, fold in the flour until just combined.
In a separate bowl, mix the brown sugar and ground cinnamon together. Set aside.
Pour half of the banana bread batter into a greased loaf pan. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar mixture over the batter. Then, add the remaining batter on top and finish with the remaining cinnamon sugar. Use a knife to swirl the mixture gently.
Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow to cool before slicing.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 200
- Total Fat: 7g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Protein: 2g