Homemade Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread

Name: Homemade 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 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup sugar; 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Enjoy the delightful aroma and taste of Homemade Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread, a scrumptious treat perfect for breakfast or as a snack.

Created by

Tessa Wright

Last updated on 2025-12-22T23:00:37.200Z

Banana bread is a beloved classic that never goes out of style. With the addition of a sweet cinnamon swirl, this version elevates the traditional recipe to new heights. Perfectly moist and flavorful, this homemade treat is sure to become a family favorite.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Moist and flavorful with a delightful cinnamon swirl
Easy to make with simple ingredients
Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert
Great way to use overripe bananas

      

The Secret to Moist Banana Bread

The key to achieving moist and flavorful banana bread lies in using ripe bananas. As bananas ripen, their starches convert to sugars, enhancing the sweetness and flavor of your bread. Look for bananas that are heavily speckled with brown spots; these are perfect for baking. The more ripe the bananas, the more natural sweetness they will contribute, allowing you to use less added sugar.

Another aspect to keep in mind is the importance of not overmixing your batter. When you combine the dry and wet ingredients, mix just until they are incorporated. Overmixing can lead to tough bread due to the development of gluten. A few lumps are okay; they will bake out as the bread cooks.

Perfect Pairings

Homemade Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with various accompaniments. For breakfast, enjoy a warm slice topped with a pat of butter or a dollop of cream cheese. The creaminess complements the cinnamon swirl beautifully, creating a delightful bite that’s hard to resist.

For an afternoon snack, consider serving your banana bread with a cup of coffee or tea. The warm, aromatic flavors of the bread enhance the experience, making it a comforting treat. Additionally, you can toast a slice and add a smear of nut butter for an extra protein boost, transforming it into a satisfying post-workout snack.

Storing and Freezing Tips

To keep your Homemade Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to extend its shelf life, consider refrigerating it, where it can last for up to a week. Just be sure to wrap it well to prevent it from drying out.

If you have leftovers or want to make a batch in advance, freezing is a great option. Slice the bread first, and then wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. You can freeze the slices for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or pop a slice in the toaster for a quick treat.

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 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

For the Cinnamon Swirl

1/4 cup sugar
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

Instructions

Prepare the Oven and Pan

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

Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas and 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 Flour

Add the flour gradually, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.

Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl

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

Layer the Batter

Pour half of the banana bread batter into the prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar mixture over it. Add the remaining batter and top with the rest of the cinnamon sugar.

Bake

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

Cool and Serve

Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Variations to Try

While the classic recipe is a hit, feel free to experiment with variations! Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor. You can also mix in chocolate chips for a sweet twist; the melty chocolate pairs wonderfully with the cinnamon swirl.

For a healthier option, consider substituting half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. This will add a nutty flavor while increasing the fiber content of your banana bread. You might also reduce the sugar slightly, as overripe bananas will still provide natural sweetness.

Health Benefits of Bananas

Bananas are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. They are a great source of potassium, which is essential for heart health and muscle function. Additionally, bananas contain vitamin C and vitamin B6, both of which play crucial roles in maintaining overall health and well-being.

Including bananas in your diet can also aid digestion due to their fiber content. This makes them a perfect choice for baking, as the fiber helps to keep you full longer, making your cinnamon swirl banana bread a satisfying snack or breakfast option.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas?

Yes, just thaw them and drain any excess water before mashing.

→ How do I store the banana bread?

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

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

You can substitute the egg with a flax egg and use a plant-based butter alternative.

→ How can I make the bread moister?

Make sure your bananas are very ripe, and consider adding a tablespoon of yogurt or applesauce for extra moisture.