If you have a soft spot for the cozy flavors of homemade quick breads, then you will absolutely adore this Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread. Imagine moist, tender banana bread infused with just the right hint of warm cinnamon, swirling through every bite like a little secret surprise. This recipe combines the sweetness of ripe bananas with a cinnamon-sugar mixture that creates a delightful ribbon of flavor, making it a comforting treat for breakfast, snack time, or even dessert. It’s the kind of recipe that feels like a warm hug on a plate and once you try it, Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread will become a beloved staple in your kitchen.

Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a vital role in delivering the perfect texture, moisture, and flavor. From the rich melted butter that adds a gentle tenderness to the ripe bananas that bring natural sweetness and moisture, every element is essential. Let’s break down what you’ll need to make this delicious loaf:

2 cups all-purpose flour: The base ingredient that gives the bread its structure and crumb.

1 teaspoon baking soda: Acts as the leavening agent to ensure the bread rises nicely and stays light.
¼ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors and balances the sweetness.

½ cup unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and keeps the bread moist and tender.
1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the bread while helping with its golden color and crisp edges.

2 large eggs: Bind all the ingredients together and contribute to the soft texture.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Gives a lovely warm aroma and deepens the flavor profile.
1 ½ cups ripe bananas, mashed (about 3-4 bananas): The star ingredient providing natural sweetness and moisture.

½ cup sour cream: Adds tanginess and makes the bread especially moist.
½ cup brown sugar: Used for the cinnamon swirl, lending a molasses note and extra depth.
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon: The warm spice that brings the signature swirl flavor to life.

How to Make Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms, grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later. Proper pan prep is key to ensuring your beautiful Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread comes out smooth and intact every time.

Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. This ensures even distribution of the leavening and seasoning so your bread rises uniformly and every bite tastes balanced.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, blend the melted butter with granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Then, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to create a silky batter. Stir in the vanilla extract for that irresistible aroma.

Step 4: Add Bananas and Sour Cream

Fold in your ripe mashed bananas and sour cream, gently combining so the batter remains light but fully mixed. These ingredients bring moisture and richness, ensuring your bread stays soft and tender.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry flour mixture into your wet ingredients. Stir just until everything is incorporated — overmixing can make the bread dense, so be gentle and patient here.

Step 6: Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl

In a small bowl, thoroughly mix the brown sugar with the ground cinnamon. This will be your magical swirl mixture that adds bursts of cinnamon sweetness throughout your loaf, transforming each slice from ordinary to extraordinary.

Step 7: Layer and Swirl the Batter

Pour half of the banana bread batter into your prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the batter. Next, carefully spoon the remaining batter on top. Finally, sprinkle the rest of the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the top and use a knife to gently swirl the cinnamon into the batter, creating those signature beautiful ribbons.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Bake your loaf in the preheated oven for 60 to 70 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. If it’s browning too quickly on top, tent it with foil for the last 15 minutes to avoid burning while baking through.

Step 9: Cool and Enjoy

Allow your Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This resting time helps the bread set, making it easier to slice without crumbling.

How to Serve Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread

Garnishes

A simple dusting of powdered sugar can make your loaf look extra inviting. For a rich touch, spread a pat of unsalted butter or cream cheese on warm slices. Adding a drizzle of honey or maple syrup is another delicious way to enhance the cinnamon notes.

Side Dishes

Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread pairs beautifully with fresh fruit or a bowl of yogurt for a balanced breakfast. For afternoon treats, a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a hot cup of coffee or chai tea will turn your snack into a little celebration.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut your loaf into thick slices and toast them lightly for a crispy edge with a soft center. You can also cube the bread and toast it for cinnamon-flavored bread pudding or even blend it into a decadent smoothie for a breakfast treat with a twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This will maintain its moisture and soft crumb.

Freezing

If you want to keep your banana bread longer, wrap it well in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature for the best results.

Reheating

Warm slices in a toaster oven or microwave for just a few seconds to revive that fresh-from-the-oven feeling. Adding a little butter before reheating enhances the moistness and richness.

FAQs

Can I use frozen bananas for this bread?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before mashing the bananas to avoid making the batter too wet.

What can I substitute for sour cream?

You can use Greek yogurt or buttermilk in equal amounts; both will give the bread a nice tang and moist texture similar to sour cream.

How do I know when the bread is fully baked?

Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached, not wet batter.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?

Definitely! Adding ½ cup of chopped walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips adds a lovely texture and bursts of flavor that complement the cinnamon and banana perfectly.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Just make sure it contains xanthan gum or add it separately to help with structure.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly comforting about baking a loaf of Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread in your own kitchen. The way the cinnamon ribbon weaves through the moist banana crumb never fails to brighten my day. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or savoring a quiet moment with a slice and a cup of tea, this recipe is a winner every time. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it part of your own family’s favorites!

Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread Recipe

★★★★★

5.2 from 22 reviews

Author: Lila

Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
Yield: 1 loaf (about 10–12 servings) 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

This Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread is a moist and flavorful twist on classic banana bread, featuring a sweet cinnamon and brown sugar swirl throughout. Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert, it combines ripe bananas, rich butter, and a fragrant cinnamon mixture for a delightful treat everyone will love.

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to ensure the bread doesn’t stick.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Set this mixture aside for later to incorporate evenly into the batter.
Combine Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, mix melted unsalted butter with granulated sugar until well blended, creating a smooth base for the batter.

Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated. Then stir in the vanilla extract to infuse rich flavor.
Incorporate Bananas and Sour Cream: Fold in the mashed ripe bananas and sour cream gently until the mixture is uniform, adding moisture and tang to the bread.
Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients. Stir carefully until just combined to avoid overmixing, which can toughen the bread.

Prepare Cinnamon Swirl: In a small bowl, combine brown sugar and ground cinnamon thoroughly to make the sweet swirl topping.
Layer Batter and Swirl: Pour half of the banana bread batter into the prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the batter.
Finish Layering: Spoon the remaining batter on top of the cinnamon layer, then sprinkle the rest of the cinnamon-sugar mixture on top. Use a knife to gently swirl the cinnamon mixture through the batter, creating beautiful swirls.

Bake: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 60 to 70 minutes. Test doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean.
Cool Bread: Remove the banana bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then transfer the loaf to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing for best texture and flavor.

Notes

For extra moisture, you can substitute the sour cream with plain Greek yogurt.

Make sure bananas are very ripe for maximum sweetness and flavor.
Do not overmix the batter once the flour is added to keep the bread tender and light.
Store leftover banana bread wrapped tightly at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

This recipe can be doubled and baked in two loaf pans, adjusting baking time slightly.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 65 minutes

Category: Bread
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12 of loaf)
Calories: 220 kcal
Sugar: 18 g

Sodium: 180 mg
Fat: 8 g
Saturated Fat: 4.5 g

Unsaturated Fat: 2.5 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 33 g

Fiber: 2 g
Protein: 3 g
Cholesterol: 55 mg

Keywords: banana bread, cinnamon swirl, cinnamon banana bread, homemade banana bread, easy banana bread recipe, moist banana bread