Delicious cinnamon swirl banana bread freshly baked and sliced

Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread

ByJOHN
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Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread

Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread is a delightful treat that combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the warm, comforting flavor of cinnamon. This recipe is perfect for breakfast, snacks, or any time you crave a homemade bite of goodness. The rich aroma that fills your kitchen while baking will have everyone eagerly awaiting a slice. This bread is moist, flavorful, and offers a delightful surprise with its swirls of cinnamon sugar, making it an irresistible choice for banana bread lovers.

Why Make This Recipe

Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread is not only delicious, but it is also a great way to use up overripe bananas that you might have sitting on the counter. Instead of throwing them away, you can transform them into a soft, fluffy loaf that everyone will love. This recipe is simple and requires basic ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. It’s a perfect baking project for beginners or anyone who wants to create homemade comfort food without much fuss.

The combination of bananas and cinnamon adds nutritional benefits as well. Bananas are an excellent source of potassium and vitamin C, while cinnamon has antioxidants and may help regulate blood sugar levels. So, when you bake this bread, you’re not only treating your taste buds but also nourishing your body. Plus, sharing a warm loaf with family or friends creates a wonderful opportunity for connection and joy!

How to Make Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread

Making Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread is a straightforward process that anyone can follow. Let’s dive into the ingredients and directions to get you started on this amazing baking adventure.

Ingredients:

  • 3 ripe bananas, mashed
  • 1/3 cup melted butter
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • Pinch of salt
  • 3/4 cup sugar
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tbsp cinnamon
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar

Directions:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your banana bread will bake evenly and rise beautifully. While the oven is heating, grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan to prevent the bread from sticking.

  2. Mix the Bananas and Butter: In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas with the melted butter. Use a fork or a potato masher to mix until it’s smooth and well combined.

  3. Add Baking Soda and Salt: Sprinkle in the baking soda and a pinch of salt. Stir the mixture gently to incorporate these ingredients, as they help the bread rise and enhance the flavor.

  4. Incorporate Sugar, Egg, and Vanilla: Next, add the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract to the banana mixture. Mix everything together until it is blended well. This step will add sweetness and moisture to your banana bread.

  5. Add Flour Carefully: Slowly add the all-purpose flour to your mixture. Stir just until it is incorporated; be careful not to overmix. Overmixing can lead to tough bread, and we want our Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread to be light and fluffy.

  6. Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl: In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and cinnamon. This will create the delicious swirl that makes this banana bread special.

  7. Layer the Batter: Pour half of the banana batter into the prepared loaf pan. Evenly sprinkle half of the cinnamon mixture over this layer. Then, pour the remaining banana batter on top and finish with the rest of the cinnamon mixture.

  8. Create the Swirl: Take a knife and gently swirl it through the batter from top to bottom, creating a beautiful pattern. Be careful not to overdo it; you want to keep some distinct layers for visual appeal.

  9. Bake the Bread: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 60-65 minutes. Check the completion of the bread by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, your bread is ready.

  10. Cool and Serve: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for a few minutes. Then, gently transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. The cooling process helps the bread set and makes it easier to cut.

How to Serve Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread

Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. You can enjoy it warm or at room temperature. Here are a few ways to serve it:

  • Plain: A simple slice of banana bread can be enjoyed as is, perfect for breakfast or a snack.

  • Spreadable Toppings: Consider adding a smear of butter, cream cheese, or nut butter to your slice. These toppings can enhance the flavor and add a creamy texture.

  • With Coffee or Tea: Pairing the bread with a warm cup of coffee, tea, or hot chocolate makes for a delightful afternoon treat.

  • Topped with Fruit: Fresh slices of banana, strawberries, or blueberries on top can make your serving more colorful and packed with flavor.

  • Toast It: For an extra treat, toast the bread slices lightly in a toaster or on a skillet to warm them up and enhance their flavor.

How to Store Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread

Storing your Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread properly can help maintain its freshness for longer periods. Here are some tips for storing:

  • At Room Temperature: If you plan on eating the bread within a couple of days, store it in an airtight container or cover it tightly with plastic wrap. Keep it in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight.

  • In the Refrigerator: If you’d like it to last longer, you can refrigerate it. Wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the refrigerator. This can keep the bread fresh for up to a week.

  • Freezing: For long-term storage, freeze the banana bread. Make sure it is fully cooled, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and cover it with aluminum foil. Label the package with the date, and it can be frozen for up to three months. To thaw, leave it at room temperature or overnight in the fridge before enjoying.

Tips to Make Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread

Creating the best Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread is easy with a few helpful tips:

  • Use Overripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be. Look for bananas with lots of brown spots or even fully brown skin.

  • Do Not Overmix: Mixing the batter too much can lead to density in your bread. Stir just until the flour is absorbed to keep the bread light and fluffy.

  • Customize Your Swirl: Adjust the amount of cinnamon and brown sugar in your swirl mixture based on your personal preferences. If you love cinnamon, feel free to add more!

  • Test for Doneness: Ovens can vary, so it’s always a good idea to check for doneness a few minutes earlier than the suggested time to prevent overbaking.

  • Add Extras: Consider adding nuts like walnuts or pecans, or chocolate chips to the batter for added texture and flavor. They can complement the bananas and cinnamon nicely.

Variation

Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread is delicious on its own, but there are several variations you can try to keep things exciting:

  • Chocolate Chip Variation: Stir in some chocolate chips to the batter for a sweet chocolatey flavor that pairs beautifully with bananas and cinnamon.

  • Nutty Version: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for some crunch in each bite while enhancing the bread’s flavor.

  • Pumpkin Spice: Replace half of the bananas with pumpkin puree and add pumpkin spice for a seasonal twist.

  • Whole Wheat Version: Substitute half or all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option. This will increase the fiber content and give a slightly nuttier flavor.

  • Lemon Zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the batter for a refreshing flavor that brightens the bread.

FAQs

  1. Can I freeze Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread?
    Yes, you can freeze Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to avoid freezer burn. It can last up to three months in the freezer.

  2. What can I use instead of eggs in this recipe?
    If you want to make a vegan version, you can substitute the egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce, 1/4 cup of mashed banana, or a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water).

  3. Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?
    Absolutely! If you have frozen bananas, simply thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before mashing and using them in the recipe.

  4. How do I know when my bread is done?
    Insert a toothpick or a knife into the center of the bread. If it comes out clean, the bread is done. If there is batter clinging to it, it needs more time in the oven.

  5. Can I make this recipe in mini loaf pans?
    Yes! If you want to make mini loaves, divide the batter evenly among the mini loaf pans and reduce the baking time. Start checking for doneness at around 25-30 minutes.

Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread is a classic recipe that offers sweet satisfaction with every bite. This fun and flavorful banana bread is perfect for satisfying your cravings or sharing a delicious homemade treat with loved ones. Enjoy baking, sharing, and savoring this wonderful recipe!

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Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread

Print Recipe

A delightful treat combining ripe bananas and warm cinnamon, perfect for breakfast or snacks.

  • Author: hbibamine1980
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 65 minutes
  • Total Time: 80 minutes
  • Yield: 1 loaf 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 ripe bananas, mashed
  • 1/3 cup melted butter
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • Pinch of salt
  • 3/4 cup sugar
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tbsp cinnamon
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas and melted butter until smooth.
  3. Sprinkle in the baking soda and salt; stir gently to incorporate.
  4. Add sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract; mix until blended.
  5. Slowly add all-purpose flour and stir until just incorporated.
  6. In a small bowl, mix brown sugar and cinnamon for the swirl.
  7. Pour half of the batter into the loaf pan, sprinkle half the cinnamon mixture, top with remaining batter, and finish with the rest of the cinnamon mixture.
  8. Gently swirl the batter with a knife to create a pattern.
  9. Bake for 60-65 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  10. Allow to cool in the pan for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Notes

For best results, use overripe bananas and avoid overmixing the batter.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 280
  • Sugar: 15g
  • Sodium: 200mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg

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