Introduction

This Easy Classic Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread is a delightful twist on traditional banana bread, with a sweet cinnamon sugar swirl running through it. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an anytime snack, it’s moist, flavorful, and simple to prepare.

The image shows three slices of banana swirl bread on a white plate with a fork holding a small piece of the bread. Each slice has a golden brown crust with a soft beige interior, featuring a dark brown cinnamon swirl that wraps in a spiral pattern. At the center of each slice is a visible yellow banana slice with the banana's texture clear. The plate is dusted lightly with powdered sugar, and the setting is on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2–3 ripe bananas, mashed
1/3 cup melted butter
1 tsp baking soda
A pinch of salt
3/4 cup sugar
1 large egg, beaten
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
For the cinnamon swirl:

1/3 cup sugar
1 tbsp ground cinnamon

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
Step 2: In a small bowl, combine 1/3 cup sugar and 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon to make the cinnamon swirl. Set aside.
Step 3: In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth. Stir in the melted butter until well combined.
Step 4: Add salt and baking soda, then mix in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
Step 5: Gently add the flour and stir just until mixed. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender.
Step 6: Pour half of the banana bread batter into the prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar evenly over the batter.
Step 7: Pour the remaining batter over the cinnamon sugar layer. Top with the rest of the cinnamon sugar.
Step 8: Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the cinnamon sugar through the batter, creating a marbled pattern.
Step 9: Bake for 50 to 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 10: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving.

Tips & Variations

For added texture and flavor, fold in 1/2 cup chopped nuts or chocolate chips into the batter before baking.
You can adjust the amount of cinnamon sugar swirl to suit your taste preference.
Use frozen bananas that have been thawed for a creamier texture and enhanced banana flavor.
Swap melted butter for an equal amount of vegetable or coconut oil to change the texture slightly.

Storage

Store leftover banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for 2–3 days. It can also be refrigerated for up to one week. For longer storage, wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 2–3 months. To reheat, warm slices in the microwave or oven until heated through.

How to Serve

Three slices of banana swirl bread are arranged side by side on a white plate with a slightly rough texture. Each slice shows thick layers of light brown bread dough with darker brown swirls of cinnamon or chocolate, and a full banana slice embedded in the center of each piece. There is a light dusting of powdered sugar sprinkled over the bread and plate, with some crumbs scattered around. A fork resting on the right side of the plate holds a small piece of the bread. The whole scene is set on a white marbled surface with soft natural light coming from a window in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Is it okay to use frozen bananas in this recipe?

Yes, frozen bananas work well. Let them thaw completely before mashing. Since they release extra moisture, you might need to adjust the flour slightly for proper batter consistency.

Can I use oil instead of butter?

Absolutely. Use the same amount of vegetable or melted coconut oil. This swap may slightly alter the taste and texture, but your banana bread will still be delicious.

How do I know when the banana bread is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the bread is ready. If wet batter sticks, bake a few minutes longer and check again.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to the banana bread?

Yes, adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans, or chocolate chips, enhances flavor and texture. Fold them gently into the batter just before baking.

Can this banana bread be made gluten-free?

Yes, substitute regular all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Make sure all other ingredients are gluten-free. Baking time may need slight adjustment.