Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread
Highlighted under: Sweet Cravings Bakery
Indulge in the sweet and spicy aroma of homemade Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread. Perfectly moist, this delightful loaf combines ripe bananas with a rich cinnamon swirl for a comforting treat any time of the day.
Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread is not just a recipe; it's a warm hug in loaf form. Made with overripe bananas, a touch of cinnamon, and a swirl of sweet goodness, this bread is perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Moist and flavorful banana bread with a delightful cinnamon twist
- Easy to make with simple ingredients you likely have at home
- Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or as a sweet treat any time of the day
The Perfect Blend of Flavors
Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread is more than just a typical loaf; it’s a delightful fusion of flavors that warms the heart and soul. The natural sweetness of ripe bananas combines beautifully with the rich, aromatic spice of cinnamon, creating a taste sensation that’s simply irresistible. Each slice offers a moist, tender crumb that melts in your mouth, making it an ideal companion for your morning coffee or an afternoon tea break.
The addition of a cinnamon swirl not only enhances the flavor but also adds an appealing visual element to the bread. As you slice into the loaf, you’ll reveal beautiful swirls that beckon you to take a bite. This bread is not just a treat for your taste buds, but also a feast for the eyes, perfect for sharing with family and friends.
A Versatile Treat
One of the best aspects of Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread is its versatility. It can be enjoyed at any time of day, whether it’s a quick breakfast on the go, a satisfying snack between meals, or a sweet dessert following dinner. The combination of healthy ingredients makes it a guilt-free indulgence that you can feel good about serving to your loved ones.
Moreover, this banana bread is incredibly adaptable. You can customize it by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits to suit your personal preferences. Each variation can offer a new twist on the classic recipe, ensuring that you never tire of this delightful treat.
Storing and Serving Suggestions
To keep your Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you wish to prolong its shelf life, you can freeze the loaf for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw at room temperature or pop it in the microwave for a few seconds.
Serving suggestions are endless! Consider toasting a slice and spreading it with a bit of butter or cream cheese for a decadent treat. Pair it with fresh fruit or yogurt for a more balanced breakfast. No matter how you serve it, this banana bread is sure to please everyone at the table.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to create your own delicious Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread:
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 brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
With these ingredients on hand, you're ready to start baking!
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread:
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.
Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas and mix in the melted butter. Stir in the baking soda and salt.
Add Sugar and Egg
Mix in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Incorporate the Flour
Add the flour and mix until just incorporated. Do not overmix.
Prepare Cinnamon Swirl
In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and cinnamon.
Combine and Swirl
Pour half the banana batter into the prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the batter, then add the remaining batter. Top with the remaining cinnamon-sugar mixture and swirl gently with a knife.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool and Serve
Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Enjoy your freshly baked Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread!
Tips for Success
To achieve the best flavor and texture, select bananas that are very ripe, with plenty of brown spots. The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be. Additionally, avoid overmixing the batter once you add the flour, as this can lead to a dense loaf instead of a light and fluffy one.
For a more pronounced cinnamon flavor, feel free to adjust the amounts in the cinnamon swirl mixture. Experimenting with different types of cinnamon can also yield delightful results, from Ceylon cinnamon's sweet notes to the bolder flavor of Saigon cinnamon.
Health Benefits of Ingredients
Bananas are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. They are an excellent source of potassium, vitamin C, and dietary fiber, making this banana bread a healthier choice compared to many other sweet treats. The fiber content helps with digestion and keeps you feeling full longer.
Cinnamon, on the other hand, is known for its antioxidant properties and anti-inflammatory benefits. Incorporating it into your diet can support heart health and may even help regulate blood sugar levels. With each bite of this luscious bread, you’re not only treating your taste buds but also nourishing your body.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen bananas?
Yes, thawed frozen bananas work great for this recipe. Just make sure to drain any excess liquid.
→ How should I store the banana bread?
Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
→ Can I freeze this banana bread?
Absolutely! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before freezing. It can be stored for up to 3 months.
→ How do I know when the bread is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf; it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.
Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread
Indulge in the sweet and spicy aroma of homemade Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread. Perfectly moist, this delightful loaf combines ripe bananas with a rich cinnamon swirl for a comforting treat any time of the day.
Created by: Anna
Recipe Type: Sweet Cravings Bakery
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 1 loaf
What You'll Need
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 brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.
In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas and mix in the melted butter. Stir in the baking soda and salt.
Mix in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Add the flour and mix until just incorporated. Do not overmix.
In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and cinnamon.
Pour half the banana batter into the prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the batter, then add the remaining batter. Top with the remaining cinnamon-sugar mixture and swirl gently with a knife.
Bake in the preheated oven for 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 180mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 14g
- Protein: 3g