Easy Classic Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread Recipe
Introduction
Classic cinnamon swirl banana bread combines the comforting flavors of ripe bananas and warm cinnamon in a simple, delicious loaf. This easy recipe yields a moist, flavorful bread perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced baker, this twist on traditional banana bread is sure to satisfy.

Ingredients
- 2–3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- A 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:
- 1/3 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon 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: Prepare the cinnamon swirl by mixing 1/3 cup sugar and 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon in a small bowl. 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 the salt and baking soda, then mix in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
- Step 5: Gradually add the flour and stir gently until just combined. 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 mixture evenly over the batter.
- Step 7: Add the remaining batter on top, then sprinkle the rest of the cinnamon sugar mixture over it. Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the cinnamon sugar into the batter, creating a marbled pattern.
- Step 8: Bake in the preheated oven for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Step 9: Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy.
Tips & Variations
- Adjust the amount of cinnamon sugar mix to suit your taste for a milder or stronger cinnamon flavor.
- Add 1/2 cup chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the batter for extra texture and flavor.
- Use frozen bananas that have been thawed and drained to make this bread for a more intense banana flavor.
- Swap melted butter with an equal amount of vegetable oil or melted coconut oil if preferred.
Storage
Store the banana bread wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the sliced bread in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. To reheat, warm slices in the microwave or toaster oven until heated through.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Is it okay to use frozen bananas in this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen bananas, but be sure to let them fully thaw and drain excess moisture before mashing. Since frozen bananas release more liquid, you may need to slightly adjust the flour amount to maintain the right batter consistency.
Can I use oil instead of butter in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute an equal amount of vegetable or melted coconut oil for the melted butter. This may alter the texture and flavor slightly, but the banana bread will still be delicious.
PrintEasy Classic Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread Recipe
This Easy Classic Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread recipe offers a delightful twist on traditional banana bread by incorporating a sweet cinnamon sugar swirl. Featuring ripe bananas, melted butter, and a touch of vanilla, this moist and flavorful bread is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a comforting snack. The cinnamon swirl not only adds vibrant flavor but also creates a beautiful marbled effect that makes each slice inviting and delicious. Ideal for both beginner and experienced bakers, this recipe is straightforward and adaptable, allowing for additions like nuts or chocolate chips to suit personal tastes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10-15 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (about 8–10 servings) 1x
- Category: Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Banana Bread Batter
- 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
Cinnamon Swirl
- 1/3 cup sugar
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare pan: Set the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Make cinnamon swirl mixture: In a small bowl, combine 1/3 cup sugar and 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon. Set aside for layering later.
- Prepare banana bread batter: In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth using a fork. Stir in the melted butter until well combined. Add salt and baking soda, mix gently. Next, incorporate the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract until fully blended. Slowly add the flour and stir just until combined, being careful not to overmix to maintain a tender crumb.
- Layer batter and cinnamon swirl: Pour half of the banana batter into the prepared loaf pan. Evenly sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar mixture over the batter. Add the remaining batter on top, then sprinkle the remaining cinnamon sugar over it. Using a knife or skewer, gently swirl the cinnamon sugar into the batter to create a marbled effect.
- Bake the bread: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes. The bread is done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool and serve: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. Serve as a breakfast, brunch, or anytime snack.
Notes
- You can adjust the amount of cinnamon sugar to taste for a stronger or milder swirl.
- Optional additions include 1/2 cup chopped nuts or chocolate chips mixed into the batter for extra texture and flavor.
- Frozen bananas can be used but should be thawed and adjusted for moisture by modifying flour amounts as needed.
- Butter can be substituted with an equal amount of vegetable or melted coconut oil, which may slightly alter texture and flavor.
Keywords: banana bread, cinnamon swirl, classic banana bread, easy banana bread, baked banana bread, breakfast bread, cinnamon sugar bread

