Introduction
If you’re looking for a cozy baking project that fills your home with the delightful aroma of sweet, spiced goodness, look no further than this Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread! Bursting with the rich flavors of ripe bananas and a lovely cinnamon swirl, this bread is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a comforting afternoon snack. It’s so easy to make, and I promise, that first warm slice will have you coming back for more!
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 tablespoon 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) and grease a 4×8 inch loaf pan to ensure that your banana bread releases easily after baking.
- In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth—the riper, the better! Then stir in the melted butter for that rich, buttery flavor.
- Mix in the baking soda and a pinch of salt to enhance the sweetness of the bananas.
- Next, stir in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is well combined and that delightful aroma fills your kitchen.
- Gradually mix in the flour until just incorporated. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are just fine!
- In a separate bowl, combine the cinnamon and brown sugar to create your sweet swirl mixture.
- Pour half of the banana bread batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the batter in the pan to add a delicious layer of flavor.
- Next, add the remaining banana bread batter on top, then finish by topping it with the rest of the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
- Using a knife or skewer, gently swirl the batter and cinnamon mix together to create a beautiful, marbled effect.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 60-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean—this is when your kitchen really starts to smell heavenly!
- Allow to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Notes or Tips
- For an extra punch of flavor, add chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch.
- This banana bread keeps well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days—or in the freezer for up to 3 months if you want to save some for later!
- Feel free to adjust the amount of cinnamon if you prefer a more or less pronounced flavor in your bread.
Cooking Techniques
Mashing the bananas is key! Make sure to use ripe bananas, as they’re sweeter and give your bread that rich, moist texture. Avoid overmixing when you add in the flour; a light hand will keep your banana bread tender and less dense.
FAQ
- Can I use frozen bananas? Absolutely! Just thaw them and drain any excess liquid before mashing.
- What can I use instead of eggs? For an egg substitute, consider using 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or 1/4 cup of yogurt to maintain the moistness of the bread.
- How do I know when the banana bread is done? When a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, it’s ready to come out of the oven!
Conclusion
This Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread is sure to become a cherished recipe in your home. With its soft, moist texture and inviting swirls of cinnamon and sugar, every bite is a comforting treat. Whether enjoyed warm from the oven or toasted with a bit of butter, it’s the perfect way to brighten your day. Happy baking!