Introduction
Welcome to the wonderful world of baking! If you’re looking for a delightful treat that fills your kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma, then look no further than this Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread. With its scrumptious blend of ripe bananas, rich butter, and a heartwarming swirl of cinnamon and brown sugar, this banana bread is the perfect companion for your morning coffee or afternoon tea. Easy to make and utterly delicious, it’s a recipe that every home cook should have in their repertoire!
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
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 65 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Yield: 1 loaf
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), letting that warmth set the stage for aromatic baking.
- In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until they are smooth and creamy, bringing out their natural sweetness.
- Stir the melted butter into the mashed bananas, creating a rich foundation for your batter.
- Mix in the baking soda and a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors.
- Add the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract to the bowl, stirring well to combine all those lovely ingredients.
- Gently fold in the flour until just incorporated — be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay!
- In a smaller bowl, combine the ground cinnamon and brown sugar to create a sweet, fragrant mixture.
- Pour half of the banana bread batter into a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the batter, allowing those flavors to start mingling.
- Add the remaining banana bread batter on top, smoothing it out, followed by the rest of the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
- Using a knife, gently swirl the cinnamon-sugar mixture into the batter — this will create those beautiful cinnamon swirls.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 60-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating it’s perfectly baked.
- Once baked, remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes or Tips
- For an extra burst of flavor, try adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the batter.
- Make sure your bananas are ripe for the best sweetness and flavor.
- This banana bread can be stored at room temperature for a few days or frozen for longer freshness – perfect for those unexpected cravings!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe makes use of straightforward and essential baking techniques. The key to a moist banana bread lies in the careful mixing of ingredients and ensuring not to overmix after adding the flour. The swirling technique for the cinnamon sugar not only looks beautiful but also infuses each slice with a delightful burst of flavor.
FAQ
Can I substitute the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour?
Yes, using whole wheat flour is an excellent way to add a bit more nutrition, although it may change the texture slightly.
How do I know when my banana bread is done?
The toothpick test is your best friend! Stick a toothpick into the center of the bread; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s ready!
Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before mashing.
Conclusion
There you have it—a simple, heartwarming recipe for Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread that’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. With its delightful cinnamon swirls and moist, fluffy texture, it’s a comforting treat that brings a smile to everyone’s face. So gather your ingredients, invite your loved ones into the kitchen, and enjoy the joy of baking together!