This Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread combines the moist, flavorful crumb of classic banana bread with a delightful cinnamon-sugar ribbon throughout. Topped with a simple vanilla icing, this quick bread transforms into a dessert-like treat that’s perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack. It’s an excellent way to use overripe bananas and stays moist for days.

FULL RECIPE:

Ingredients

For the Bread:

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
• 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1/3 cup (80g) plain yogurt or sour cream, at room temperature
• 2 cups mashed bananas (about 4 ripe bananas)
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

For the Cinnamon Swirl:

• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

For the Vanilla Icing:

• 1/2 cup (60g) confectioners’ sugar
• 1 tablespoon heavy cream or milk
• 1/4 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Directions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides to lift the bread out easily.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl using a handheld or stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the butter and sugar together on high speed until smooth and creamy, about 1 minute.
4. Add Eggs and Flavorings: On medium speed, add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Beat in the yogurt, mashed bananas, and vanilla extract until combined.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: With the mixer on low speed, slowly beat the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until no flour pockets remain. Do not overmix.
6. Prepare Cinnamon Swirl: In a small bowl, mix the granulated sugar and cinnamon together.
7. Assemble the Bread: Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle 3/4 of the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly on top. Pour the remaining batter over this layer and gently swirl with a knife. Sprinkle the remaining cinnamon-sugar mixture on top.
8. Bake: Bake for 50–60 minutes, covering the bread loosely with aluminum foil halfway through to prevent the top from over-browning. The bread is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Cool: Remove from the oven and allow the bread to cool completely in the pan set on a wire rack. Once cooled, lift the bread out using the parchment paper overhang.
10. Prepare Icing: Whisk the confectioners’ sugar, heavy cream or milk, and vanilla extract together until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled bread before slicing.

Nutrients Per serving (1 slice, assuming 12 slices per loaf):

• Calories: 230
• Total Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Cholesterol: 45mg
• Sodium: 250mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 38g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 20g
• Protein: 3g

The Allure of Cinnamon and Banana Combination

The pairing of bananas and cinnamon is a match made in culinary heaven. Ripe bananas provide natural sweetness and moisture, creating a tender crumb in baked goods. Cinnamon adds a spicy warmth that complements the banana’s flavor, enhancing the overall taste profile. Incorporating a cinnamon swirl introduces a visual appeal and a burst of flavor in every bite.

Versatility and Occasions

Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread’s versatility makes it suitable for various occasions. It’s an excellent choice for breakfast, paired with a cup of coffee or tea. As a snack, it provides a satisfying sweetness without being overly indulgent. For dessert, especially when topped with a simple vanilla glaze, it offers a comforting end to a meal. Its portability also makes it ideal for picnics, potlucks, or as a thoughtful homemade gift.

Customization and Variations

One of the appealing aspects of this bread is its adaptability. Bakers can experiment by adding ingredients such as chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans) for added crunch, chocolate chips for a richer flavor, or dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for a chewy texture. Adjusting the amount of cinnamon or incorporating other spices like nutmeg or cardamom can tailor the bread to personal preferences. For those seeking a healthier version, substituting part of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour, reducing the sugar, or using alternative sweeteners can be effective modifications.

Baking Tips for Success

To achieve the best results with Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread, consider the following tips:

• Use Overripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful the bread will be. Look for bananas with a deep yellow peel and brown spots.
• Proper Mixing: Avoid overmixing the batter to prevent a dense or tough texture. Mix just until the dry ingredients are incorporated.
• Creating the Swirl: When adding the cinnamon-sugar mixture, layering it between portions of batter and using a knife to gently swirl can create an attractive pattern and ensure even distribution of flavor.
• Baking Time: Oven temperatures can vary, so start checking for doneness a few minutes before the recommended baking time. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
• Cooling: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This helps prevent it from becoming soggy.

Storage and Shelf Life

Proper storage ensures that the bread remains moist and flavorful. Once completely cooled, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight container. At room temperature, it can last for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider refrigerating it for up to a week or freezing it for up to 3 months. If freezing, it’s advisable to slice the bread beforehand, allowing you to thaw individual slices as needed.

Health Considerations

While Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread is a treat, it also offers some nutritional benefits. Bananas are a good source of potassium, vitamin C, and dietary fiber. Incorporating whole grain flours or reducing added sugars can enhance its healthfulness. However, as with any baked good, it’s best enjoyed in moderation, especially if additional sweeteners or glazes are used.

Conclusion

Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread is a delightful and versatile baked good that brings together the comforting flavors of banana and cinnamon. Its adaptability allows bakers to experiment and make it their own, while its comforting taste makes it a favorite for many. Whether enjoyed as a morning treat, an afternoon snack, or a dessert, this bread offers a slice of homemade goodness that’s hard to resist.