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

Transform your kitchen into a cozy bakery with this delightful Homemade Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread. Moist and fluffy, this recipe combines the perfect blend of ripe bananas and a buttery cinnamon swirl, making it the ideal treat for breakfast or a sweet snack. The rich aroma will fill your home, bringing warmth and comfort to any occasion. Enjoy a slice warm or toasted with a bit of butter for an irresistible experience.

Created by

Harriet Collins

Last updated on 2025-11-12T11:06:58.004Z

This Homemade Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread is a family favorite. With its delightful swirl of cinnamon and sugar, every bite is a perfect harmony of flavors.

The Perfect Comfort Food

Homemade Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread is not just a delightful treat; it's the perfect comfort food. The combination of ripe bananas and warm spices makes it a go-to recipe for any time of the year. Whether you're cozying up on a chilly morning or looking for a delicious afternoon snack, this banana bread brings a sense of home and warmth. The rich flavor profile, complemented by the soft texture, ensures each bite is both satisfying and heartwarming.

Moreover, this recipe is incredibly versatile. Feel free to customize it by adding nuts or chocolate chips for an extra touch of flavor. The basic recipe serves as a canvas for creativity, allowing you to experiment with ingredients while maintaining the comforting essence of banana bread. This versatility makes it a staple in many households, perfect for breakfast, tea time, or even dessert.

Using Up Overripe Bananas

One of the best things about this Homemade Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread is its practicality. It's a fantastic way to use up overripe bananas that would otherwise go to waste. Instead of tossing those brown bananas aside, turn them into a delicious baked good that your whole family will enjoy. The natural sweetness of the ripe bananas enhances the flavor, making the banana bread moist and flavorful without the need for excessive sugar.

Transforming overripe bananas into something delightful not only reduces waste but also helps you make the most of what you have in your kitchen. This recipe encourages a conscientious approach to cooking and baking, promoting sustainability while ensuring you have a delicious treat on hand. So next time you find those bananas getting a bit too ripe, remember this recipe and save them from the compost bin.

The Joy of Baking at Home

Baking at home is more than just preparing food; it's an experience that brings joy and satisfaction. The act of mixing ingredients, the delightful aroma wafting through the kitchen, and the anticipation of enjoying a warm slice of banana bread create a comforting ritual that many cherish. This recipe allows you to engage with the process, cultivating a sense of accomplishment and creativity.

Moreover, baking with loved ones can strengthen bonds and create cherished memories. Whether you’re teaching your kids the joys of cooking or baking with friends during a cozy afternoon, this recipe serves as a great starting point. It’s simple enough to make together, yet rewarding enough to enjoy the fruits of your labor afterwards. Gather around the kitchen and experience the joy of baking together with the delightful aroma of cinnamon and banana filling the air.

Ingredients

Gather the following 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

Make sure to have everything measured out before you start!

Instructions

Follow these steps to bake your delicious bread:

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 4x8 inch loaf pan.

Mix the wet ingredients

In a mixing bowl, mix the melted butter with the mashed bananas. Add in the baking soda and salt. Stir in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract.

Add the flour

Mix in the flour until just combined. Do not overmix.

Prepare the cinnamon swirl

In a small bowl, mix the sugar and ground cinnamon.

Layer the mixture

Pour half of the banana bread batter into the loaf pan. Sprinkle with half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture. Add the remaining batter on top, and then sprinkle the rest of the cinnamon-sugar mixture over it.

Bake

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

Cool and enjoy

Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Enjoy warm or toasted!

Slice and serve with butter for a special treat!

Storage Tips for Optimal Freshness

To keep your Homemade Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread fresh, it’s important to store it correctly. Allow the bread to cool completely before wrapping it in plastic wrap or placing it in an airtight container. This helps to maintain its moisture and prevents it from drying out. For best results, store the bread at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

If you'd like to prolong its shelf life even further, consider freezing the banana bread. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for added protection. When you're ready to enjoy a slice, simply thaw it at room temperature or heat it up in the oven for a few minutes. Doing so will revive its warm, fresh-baked flavor and texture.

Variations to Try

While the classic version of this banana bread is undoubtedly delicious, there are numerous variations to try! For an added nutty crunch, consider folding in some chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter. You can also incorporate chocolate chips for a delightful sweetness that complements the banana and cinnamon beautifully.

For those who enjoy a hint of tartness, adding dried cranberries or blueberries can provide a lovely contrast to the sweetness of the banana bread. Experimenting with spices such as nutmeg or ginger can also introduce new flavor dimensions, making this recipe easy to adapt to your personal taste preferences.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy your Homemade Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread on its own, or elevate the experience by adding toppings. A smear of butter or cream cheese can enhance the flavors and add a creamy richness that complements the bread beautifully. Drizzling a bit of honey or maple syrup adds an extra touch of sweetness and indulgence.

If you're feeling adventurous, serve a warm slice alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience. Pairing it with a steaming cup of coffee or tea can make for the perfect afternoon treat. No matter how you choose to enjoy it, this banana bread is sure to delight your taste buds.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze banana bread?

Yes! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before freezing.

→ How overripe should my bananas be?

The riper, the better! Look for bananas with lots of brown spots.