Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread

Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread is a soft, moist banana loaf featuring rich cinnamon-sugar swirls throughout. It takes classic banana bread to the next level with layers of sweet spice and a buttery finish, making it perfect for breakfast, snacking, or dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Combines the comfort of banana bread with the sweetness of cinnamon sugar.

• The swirl adds a beautiful marbled look and extra flavor.

• Simple to make with everyday pantry ingredients.

• Great for using up overripe bananas.

• Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as an afternoon treat.

• Freezes well for later enjoyment.

• Can be made into muffins or mini loaves.

• Kids and adults both love it.

• Versatile recipe that allows for add-ins like nuts or chocolate.

• Tastes even better the next day.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Batter

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 2 large eggs

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon baking soda

• 1½ cups mashed ripe banana (about 4 bananas)

Cinnamon Sugar Swirl

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

• 3 tablespoons granulated sugar

• 3 tablespoons dark brown sugar

• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon

• 6 thin banana slices (for garnish, optional)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set it aside.

2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk the melted butter and granulated sugar until well combined.

3. Beat in the eggs and vanilla extract until smooth.

4. Stir in the flour and baking soda until just combined.

5. Fold in the mashed bananas gently, being careful not to overmix.

6. In a separate small bowl, mix together the melted butter, granulated sugar, dark brown sugar, and ground cinnamon to make the swirl mixture.

7. To layer:

   • Spread ¼ of the banana batter into the bottom of the prepared loaf pan.

   • Spoon ¼ of the cinnamon swirl mixture over the batter and swirl gently with a knife.

   • Repeat the process in layers with the remaining batter and cinnamon mixture until all is used.

   • Place the banana slices on top for garnish, if desired.

8. Set the loaf pan on a baking sheet and bake on the middle rack for 60–70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

9. If the top browns too quickly before the inside is done, tent the loaf with aluminum foil.

10. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for at least 30 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and timing

• Yield: 8 to 10 slices

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Cook Time: 60 to 70 minutes

• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Variations

• Add-ins: Fold in chopped walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips for extra texture and flavor.

• Mini loaves: Divide batter into smaller loaf pans and reduce the baking time to 35–45 minutes.

• Muffins: Turn this recipe into muffins by baking in a lined muffin tin at 350°F for 20–25 minutes.

• Vegan version: Use plant-based butter and egg substitutes like flax eggs or mashed applesauce.

• Gluten-free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.

Storage/Reheating

• Store leftover banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

• Refrigerate to keep it fresh for up to 5 days, but bring it to room temperature before serving for best texture.

• To freeze, wrap the loaf (or individual slices) tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. Freeze for up to 3 months.

• Reheat slices in the microwave for 10–15 seconds or in a 300°F oven for 5–10 minutes.

FAQs

What kind of bananas are best for this recipe?

Use very ripe bananas with lots of brown spots. The riper they are, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be.

Can I make this banana bread without the cinnamon swirl?

Yes, simply omit the swirl mixture and bake the banana batter on its own for a traditional loaf.

How do I prevent the swirl from sinking or spreading too much?

Make sure the cinnamon mixture isn’t too thin. If needed, adjust the butter quantity so the swirl stays thick enough to layer.

What if I don’t have dark brown sugar?

You can substitute with light brown sugar or make your own by mixing 1 tablespoon of molasses with 1 cup of granulated sugar.

Can I use oil instead of butter?

Yes, but butter adds more flavor. If substituting, use the same amount of a neutral oil like canola or vegetable oil.

How do I know when the bread is fully baked?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf. If it comes out with moist crumbs (not wet batter), it’s ready.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, double all the ingredients and divide into two loaf pans. Bake as directed but check doneness, as ovens may vary.

Why is my banana bread dry?

Overmixing the batter or overbaking can lead to dryness. Mix just until ingredients are combined and keep an eye on baking time.

How can I make the top extra pretty?

Decorate with banana slices or sprinkle a bit of cinnamon sugar on top before baking for a sweet, crackly crust.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. The flavors intensify after resting, and it slices better the next day. Store tightly wrapped at room temperature or refrigerate.

Conclusion

Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread is a delightful twist on the classic, offering a buttery crumb and bursts of warm cinnamon in every bite. It’s easy to make, incredibly satisfying, and ideal for cozy mornings or a sweet afternoon break. Whether you serve it fresh or freeze it for later, this loaf is bound to become a favorite.