Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread

Introduction

Discover a delicious way to use up those ripe bananas with this Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread recipe. Easy to make, moist, and packed with cinnamon flavor, this banana bread is the perfect choice for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert. Whether you’re baking for your family or planning to surprise your friends, this recipe promises to be a crowd-pleaser.

Recipe and More

This banana bread features a decadent cinnamon swirl, adding a flavorful twist to the classic version. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can achieve bakery-quality results. From its tantalizing aroma while baking to the rich taste with every bite, this recipe is worth trying.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

For the banana bread:
flour – 2 cups
granulated sugar – 1 cup
baking powder – 1 teaspoon
baking soda – 1/2 teaspoon
salt – 1/2 teaspoon
ground cinnamon – 1 teaspoon
ripe bananas (mashed) – about 4 medium
butter (melted and slightly cooled) – 1/2 cup
vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon
eggs – 2

For the cinnamon swirl:
brown sugar – 1/3 cup
ground cinnamon – 1 tablespoon

Prep Time

Get ready to embark on a delightful baking experience. Prep time for this recipe takes only about 15 minutes. During this period, you’ll combine the ingredients for the banana bread and create the flavorful cinnamon swirl mixture.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

The banana bread needs around 1 hour to bake in the oven. It’s best to allow it to cool for a while after baking before slicing to enjoy its full texture and flavor. In total, the process takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes.

As for yield, this recipe makes one loaf of banana bread, perfect for about 8-10 servings, depending on slice sizes. Ideal for enjoying with family or storing for the week ahead.
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Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper and set aside.

Step 2: Mash the Bananas

Using a fork or potato masher, mash the ripe bananas in a medium-sized mixing bowl until smooth, and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Brown Sugar Mixture

In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar and ground cinnamon evenly. Set this mixture aside, as it will be used to create the cinnamon swirl within the bread.

Step 4: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until smooth. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, and mix until well combined. Stir in the mashed bananas until incorporated.

Step 5: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt to evenly distribute the dry ingredients.

Step 6: Incorporate Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing gently with a spatula or wooden spoon just until combined. Do not overmix the batter.

Step 7: Add a Layer to the Pan

Pour half of the banana bread batter into the prepared loaf pan. Spread the batter evenly using a spatula.

Step 8: Sprinkle the Cinnamon-Sugar Mixture

Sprinkle half of the brown sugar and cinnamon mixture evenly over the batter layer in the pan.

Step 9: Layer and Swirl

Add the remaining banana bread batter on top of the cinnamon-sugar layer. Spread it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cinnamon sugar mixture on top and use a knife to gently swirl it into the batter, creating a marble effect.

Step 10: Bake the Bread

Place the loaf pan into the preheated oven and bake for approximately 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the bread comes out clean.

Step 11: Cool the Bread

Remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Notes

Note 1: Ripe Bananas

For the best flavor, use overripe bananas with a lot of brown spots on the skin. They are sweeter and easier to mash.

Note 2: Swirling Technique

When creating the swirl, avoid mixing too much. Gentle swirling with a knife will yield the desired marble effect without over-incorporating the cinnamon-sugar.

Note 3: Storage Instructions

To store, wrap the banana bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate or freeze.

Note 4: Substitution Options

Unsalted butter can be substituted with coconut oil or melted margarine for a different flavor. You can also use dark brown sugar instead of light brown sugar if desired.

Note 5: Parchment Paper Tip

Using parchment paper in the loaf pan makes it easier to lift the bread out after it has baked, providing a cleaner removal.
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Cook Techniques

Mixing the Batter

Ensure your bananas are very ripe for a naturally sweet flavor. Mash them thoroughly before adding to the mixture for an even consistency. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients for a uniform batter without overmixing to ensure tender bread.

Creating the Cinnamon Swirl

Prepare the cinnamon-sugar mixture separately. To achieve a more defined swirl, spoon half the batter into the loaf pan, scatter the cinnamon-sugar mixture over it, and use a knife to swirl the layers before adding the remaining batter.

Baking Consistency

Bake the banana bread at the correct temperature to avoid overbaking or underbaking. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, the bread is ready. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for a short time before transferring it to a wire rack.

Achieving a Golden Top

For an evenly golden top, place your loaf pan in the middle rack of the oven. If the top starts to brown too quickly while the inside is still underdone, tent the bread loosely with aluminum foil during the last few minutes of baking.

FAQ

Can I use frozen bananas to make this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen bananas. Ensure they are fully thawed and excess liquid is drained off before mashing to prevent altering the batter consistency.

Can I substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour?

Yes, a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend can be used to replace all-purpose flour, though this may slightly alter the bread’s texture.

How can I store the banana bread?

Store the banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, it can be refrigerated for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Allow frozen bread to thaw completely before serving.

Can I replace the sugar with a natural sweetener?

Yes, natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup can be used as a replacement, but this might affect the texture of the bread. Adjust the dry ingredients accordingly to compensate for the added liquid if using liquid sweeteners.

How do I ensure the cinnamon swirl is evenly distributed?

Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the cinnamon mixture through the batter after layering to create a marbled effect without fully mixing it in.

What add-ins work well with this recipe?

You can mix in chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried fruits like raisins for added texture and flavor without overwhelming the cinnamon swirl.

Conclusion

This Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread is a delightful twist on classic banana bread. The moist texture, combined with the sweet cinnamon sugar swirl, makes it a standout treat. Perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or dessert, this recipe is versatile and sure to impress family and friends.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Chocolate Chip Banana Bread

Incorporate chocolate chips into the batter for a rich and indulgent twist to your banana bread.

Blueberry Cinnamon Banana Bread

Add fresh or frozen blueberries along with the cinnamon swirl for a fruity and flavorful variation.

Peanut Butter Banana Bread

Swirl peanut butter into the batter or spread it on slices for a nutty, protein-packed addition.

Pecan Cinnamon Banana Bread

Top the batter with chopped pecans and extra cinnamon sugar for added crunch and flavor.

Banana Bread French Toast

Turn slices of banana bread into delectable French toast for a delicious breakfast or brunch creation.

Cream Cheese Banana Bread

Layer cream cheese in the middle of the batter or frost with cream cheese icing for a creamy dessert option.

Apple-Cinnamon Banana Bread

Mix in small chunks of apple and extra cinnamon to create the perfect fall-inspired version.