Homemade Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread – Perfect for Brunch!

Name: Homemade Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread – Perfect for Brunch!
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 1 loaf
Ingredients: 3 ripe bananas, mashed; 1/3 cup melted butter; 1 teaspoon baking soda; Pinch of salt; 3/4 cup sugar; 1 large egg, beaten; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup sugar; 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Indulge in the delightful flavors of Homemade Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread, a perfect treat for brunch gatherings!

Created by

Skylar Jennings

Last updated on 2025-12-18T15:14:31.063Z

This Homemade Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread is a family favorite that combines the sweetness of ripe bananas with a cinnamon sugar swirl. It's moist, flavorful, and perfect for breakfast or brunch.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Moist and fluffy texture that melts in your mouth
The warm aroma of cinnamon fills your kitchen
A delightful way to use up ripe bananas

      

The Magic of Banana Bread

Banana bread is a timeless classic that brings comfort and warmth to any kitchen. The combination of ripe bananas and a hint of cinnamon creates a flavor profile that not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also offers a homey, nostalgic experience. This Homemade Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread is particularly special, as it elevates the traditional recipe with a delicious cinnamon swirl that adds both texture and taste.

Whether you're hosting a brunch or simply enjoying a quiet morning at home, this banana bread is versatile enough to be served as a breakfast treat or a delectable snack. Each slice is packed with moistness and flavor, making it hard to resist. Plus, the enticing aroma that fills your home while it bakes is an experience in itself!

Using Ripe Bananas Wisely

One of the best aspects of this recipe is its ability to utilize ripe bananas that might otherwise go to waste. Instead of tossing those overripe bananas, you can transform them into a delicious loaf of banana bread. The natural sweetness of the bananas enhances the flavor of the bread, making it a healthier option compared to many store-bought desserts.

If you find yourself with an abundance of ripe bananas, this recipe is perfect for meal prep. You can make a couple of loaves to freeze for later, ensuring you always have a tasty snack on hand. Just wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap and store it in an airtight container in the freezer.

Perfect for Sharing

This Homemade Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread is not just a treat for yourself; it's also ideal for sharing with friends and family. The loaf can be sliced into generous pieces, making it easy to serve at gatherings. It's a wonderful addition to potlucks, brunches, or simply as a thoughtful gift for neighbors.

When you bring this banana bread to an event, expect compliments and requests for the recipe. The delightful mixture of flavors and the beautiful swirls of cinnamon create an inviting presentation that will have everyone reaching for a slice. It's a dish that not only tastes good but also brings people together.

Ingredients

For the Banana Bread

3 ripe bananas, mashed
1/3 cup melted butter
1 teaspoon baking soda
Pinch of salt
3/4 cup sugar
1 large egg, beaten
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour

For the Cinnamon Swirl

1/4 cup sugar
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

Mix all the ingredients together until well combined.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with melted butter. Stir in the baking soda and salt.

Add Sugar and Egg

Mix in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.

Incorporate Flour

Add the flour and mix until just incorporated. Do not overmix.

Prepare Cinnamon Swirl

In a small bowl, mix together the sugar and cinnamon for the swirl.

Layer the Batter

Pour half of the banana bread batter into the prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar mixture over it. Pour the remaining batter on top and finish with the rest of the cinnamon sugar.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Slice and enjoy your delicious cinnamon swirl banana bread!

Tips for the Perfect Loaf

To ensure your banana bread turns out perfectly every time, start with very ripe bananas. The more spots on the banana peel, the sweeter your bread will be. If you’re in a rush, you can quickly ripen bananas by placing them in a paper bag with an apple or avocado, which emits ethylene gas and speeds up the ripening process.

Another tip is to avoid overmixing the batter once you add the flour. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf rather than a light and fluffy texture. Just mix until the flour is barely incorporated, and you’ll achieve a delightful crumb.

Variations to Try

While the classic cinnamon swirl is a fantastic addition, consider personalizing your banana bread with different mix-ins. Chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, add a delightful crunch that complements the soft texture of the bread. You could also fold in chocolate chips for a sweeter treat that appeals to chocolate lovers.

For a tropical twist, try adding shredded coconut or diced pineapple to the batter. These ingredients can enhance the flavor profile and make your banana bread stand out. Experimenting with different spices, like nutmeg or allspice, can also introduce new dimensions of flavor.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

To keep your Homemade Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread fresh, store it at room temperature in an airtight container for up to three days. If you want to extend its shelf life, consider refrigeration, but note that this may alter the texture slightly. For longer-term storage, freezing is the best option, as mentioned earlier.

When serving, consider pairing your banana bread with a spread, such as cream cheese or almond butter, for an extra layer of flavor. A drizzle of honey or maple syrup can also elevate the experience, turning each slice into a decadent treat.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas?

Yes, just thaw them and ensure they are well mashed before mixing.

→ How do I store leftover banana bread?

Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze banana bread?

Absolutely! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

→ What can I add to this recipe?

Feel free to add nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits for added flavor and texture.