Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread

Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread is a comforting twist on classic banana bread, combining moist, tender banana loaf with a sweet, aromatic cinnamon sugar swirl running through the center. This recipe brings together the natural sweetness of ripe bananas and the warm spice of cinnamon, creating a bakery-style treat that’s perfect for breakfast, snacking, or dessert. The cinnamon swirl adds a beautiful marbled look and a burst of flavor in every slice, making this banana bread feel extra special while still being easy enough for everyday baking.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it transforms simple banana bread into something truly irresistible. The loaf stays incredibly moist, thanks to ripe bananas, while the cinnamon swirl adds warmth, sweetness, and a soft crunch. It’s the kind of recipe that fills your kitchen with the most amazing aroma and makes every slice feel like a cozy indulgence. It’s easy to make, forgiving, and always a hit with family and friends.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This dish is a must-try because it elevates a familiar classic with minimal extra effort. Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread is perfect for using up overripe bananas and turning them into something beautiful and delicious. Whether you’re baking for guests, gifting a homemade treat, or enjoying a quiet moment with coffee, this recipe delivers comfort, flavor, and bakery-quality results at home.

Recipe Details

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 55–60 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Servings: 10 slices
• Calories per Serving: ~280 kcal
• Course: Breakfast / Snack / Dessert
• Cuisine: American / Baking

Ingredients

For the Banana Bread:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups mashed ripe bananas (about 3 bananas)
• 1/4 cup milk or yogurt

For the Cinnamon Swirl:

• 1/3 cup brown sugar
• 1 tbsp ground cinnamon

Cooking Directions

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Preheat Oven:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.

3. Mix Wet Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk melted butter and sugar until smooth. Add eggs, vanilla, mashed bananas, and milk.

4. Combine Batter:
Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until just combined.

5. Make Cinnamon Swirl:
In a small bowl, mix brown sugar and cinnamon.

6. Assemble:
Pour half of the batter into the prepared pan. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar mixture over the batter. Add remaining batter and top with remaining cinnamon sugar. Swirl gently with a knife.

7. Bake:
Bake for 55–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

8. Cool:
Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

How to Serve

• Serve warm or at room temperature
• Enjoy with coffee, tea, or milk
• Spread with butter or cream cheese if desired
• Slice thick for breakfast or thin for snacking

Recipe Tips

• Use very ripe bananas for the best sweetness and flavor
• Do not overmix the batter to keep the bread tender
• Tent loosely with foil if the top browns too quickly
• Let the bread cool fully for clean slices
• Swirl gently to maintain distinct cinnamon layers

Variations

1. Nutty Banana Bread: Add chopped walnuts or pecans
2. Chocolate Chip Version: Fold in chocolate chips
3. Vegan Banana Bread: Use plant-based butter and flax eggs
4. Gluten-Free Version: Use a gluten-free flour blend
5. Cream Cheese Swirl: Add a sweetened cream cheese layer for richness

Freezing and Storage

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days
• Refrigerator: Store for up to 1 week
• Freezer: Freeze slices or whole loaf for up to 3 months
• Reheating: Warm slices in microwave or toaster oven

Special Equipment Needed

• 9×5-inch loaf pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula
• Butter knife or skewer (for swirling)

Conclusion

Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread is a cozy, flavorful upgrade to classic banana bread that’s perfect for any occasion. With its moist texture, warm cinnamon swirl, and rich banana flavor, it’s a recipe that feels both nostalgic and special. Easy to make and endlessly customizable, this banana bread is a must-try for anyone who loves comforting homemade baked goods.