Homemade Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Homemade Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread
This Homemade Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread is a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of ripe bananas and warm cinnamon. Perfect for breakfast or a snack, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Moist and tender texture that’s easy to slice
- Delicious cinnamon swirl adds a sweet twist
- Uses ripe bananas, making it a great way to reduce food waste
The Perfect Banana Bread Experience
Banana bread is a beloved classic that evokes feelings of warmth and nostalgia. With its moist and tender texture, this homemade cinnamon swirl banana bread is the perfect treat for any time of day. Whether served as a breakfast option, a midday snack, or a delightful dessert, each slice is sure to please both family and friends.
Incorporating ripe bananas not only enhances the flavor but also adds natural sweetness, making it a healthier option compared to traditional desserts. This recipe takes it a step further with a delightful cinnamon swirl that elevates the taste profile, creating a sweet twist that is hard to resist.
Utilizing Ripe Bananas
One of the best aspects of this recipe is its ability to reduce food waste. Ripe bananas, often overlooked when they become too soft, are perfect for baking. Their natural sugars caramelize during baking, providing an unmatched depth of flavor and moisture. Instead of tossing out those overripe bananas, transform them into a delicious treat that everyone will love.
By using ripe bananas, you're not just saving food; you're also adding nutritional value. Bananas are rich in essential vitamins and minerals such as potassium, vitamin C, and dietary fiber. This makes your homemade cinnamon swirl banana bread not only delicious but also a more wholesome option.
Customizing Your Banana Bread
While this recipe provides a delightful base, there’s plenty of room for customization to suit your taste. Consider adding chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture, or mix in chocolate chips for a decadent twist. Dried fruits like raisins or cranberries can also complement the flavors beautifully.
You can also experiment with the spices. While cinnamon is a classic choice, adding a pinch of nutmeg or allspice can introduce a warm, aromatic flavor that enhances the overall experience. Don't hesitate to get creative and make this banana bread your own!
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
Mix well and pour into the prepared baking pan.
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.
Combine Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas with melted butter. Mix in the baking soda and salt.
Add Sugar and Egg
Stir in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Add Flour
Mix in the flour until just incorporated. Do not over-mix.
Prepare Cinnamon Mixture
In a small bowl, mix together the sugar and cinnamon for the swirl.
Layer the Batter
Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon mixture over the batter. Add the remaining batter and top with the rest of the cinnamon mixture.
Bake
Bake for 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool and Serve
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Slice and enjoy your delicious banana bread!
Storage Tips
To keep your homemade cinnamon swirl banana bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It can last for up to three days without losing its moisture and flavor. If you plan to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag. It will maintain its delicious taste for up to three months.
When you're ready to enjoy your frozen banana bread, simply thaw it at room temperature or heat slices in the microwave for a few seconds. This way, you can savor the fresh-baked flavor anytime!
Serving Suggestions
This banana bread is delicious on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with various toppings. Spread a thin layer of butter on warm slices for added richness, or enjoy it with a dollop of cream cheese for a creamy contrast. For a twist, drizzle some honey or maple syrup over the top for a sweet finish.
Serve it alongside a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon treat, or include it in a brunch spread with fresh fruits and yogurt. The options are endless, making this banana bread a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire.
Health Benefits
In addition to being a delicious treat, this banana bread offers several health benefits. Bananas are a great source of potassium, which is vital for heart health and muscle function. They also provide dietary fiber, aiding digestion and helping keep you feeling full longer.
Using less sugar than many commercial baked goods means you can enjoy your sweet indulgence without the guilt. Plus, incorporating whole ingredients allows you to control what goes into your food, making this banana bread a healthier option for satisfying your sweet tooth.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen bananas?
Yes, thaw and mash frozen bananas for the recipe.
→ How do I store leftover banana bread?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
→ Can I make this bread gluten-free?
Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.
→ What can I add to enhance the flavor?
Consider adding walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips for added texture and taste.
Homemade Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread
Homemade Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread
Created by: Marianne Hughes
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 1 loaf
What You'll Need
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
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.
In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas with melted butter. Mix in the baking soda and salt.
Stir in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Mix in the flour until just incorporated. Do not over-mix.
In a small bowl, mix together the sugar and cinnamon for the swirl.
Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon mixture over the batter. Add the remaining batter and top with the rest of the cinnamon mixture.
Bake for 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
- Sodium: 105mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 15g
- Protein: 2g