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 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Enjoy the delightful combination of ripe bananas and fragrant cinnamon in this homemade banana bread, perfect for any brunch gathering.

Created by

Hannah Lewis

Last updated on 2025-12-19T16:15:56.034Z

This Homemade Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread is a family favorite that combines the sweetness of ripe bananas with the warm spice of cinnamon. It's easy to make and perfect for brunch gatherings or a cozy afternoon snack.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        The perfect balance of sweetness and spice
Moist texture that stays fresh for days
Easily customizable with nuts or chocolate chips

      

The Magic of Ripe Bananas

Using ripe bananas is key to achieving the perfect sweetness and moisture in your banana bread. As bananas ripen, their starches convert to sugars, enhancing the flavor and making the bread naturally sweet. The ideal bananas for this recipe are those with a few brown spots on the peel, as they will contribute to a richer taste and softer texture in your finished loaf.

Not only do ripe bananas add delicious flavor, but they also provide essential nutrients. Bananas are a great source of potassium, vitamin C, and dietary fiber, making this treat a little healthier. Plus, incorporating fruit into baked goods is a wonderful way to sneak in some nutrition without sacrificing taste.

The Perfect Cinnamon Swirl

Cinnamon is the star of this recipe, adding warmth and a delightful aroma that fills your kitchen as it bakes. The combination of brown sugar and cinnamon creates a sweet, caramelized swirl that elevates the traditional banana bread to something truly special. This swirl not only enhances the visual appeal but also infuses each bite with a burst of flavor.

Feel free to adjust the amount of cinnamon based on your personal preference. If you enjoy a more pronounced cinnamon flavor, don’t hesitate to add a little extra to the mixture. This versatility allows you to tailor the recipe to your taste, making it a fantastic option for sharing at brunch or enjoying at home.

Customizations and Variations

One of the best features of this banana bread recipe is its flexibility. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite mix-ins. Consider folding in chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch, or toss in chocolate chips for a decadent twist. These additions can transform the flavor profile and make each loaf uniquely yours.

For a healthier version, you can substitute some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or even oat flour. This will not only enhance the nutritional value but also add a nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with the bananas and cinnamon. Similarly, you can reduce the sugar by a quarter without compromising the bread's deliciousness.

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 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

For the Cinnamon Swirl

1/4 cup brown sugar
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

Mix the ingredients thoroughly to create a delicious batter!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas with melted butter. Stir in the baking soda and salt, then mix in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract.

Combine the Dry Ingredients

Add the flour to the banana mixture and stir until just combined.

Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl

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

Layer the Batter

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

Swirl and Bake

Use a knife to gently swirl the cinnamon mixture into the batter. Bake for 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

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

Enjoy your delicious homemade banana bread!

Serving Suggestions

Homemade cinnamon swirl banana bread is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. For a delightful brunch treat, serve slices warm with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey. Add fresh fruit or a dollop of yogurt on the side to create a balanced meal that everyone will love.

You can also toast the banana bread for a crispy texture, making it perfect for breakfast. Pair it with your favorite coffee or tea for a comforting start to your day. Additionally, if you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container and enjoyed for several days, making it a great make-ahead option.

Storage Tips

To keep your banana bread fresh, ensure it's completely cooled before storing. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in an airtight container. This will help maintain its moisture and prevent it from drying out. Properly stored, banana bread can last up to a week at room temperature.

If you want to extend its shelf life further, consider freezing the banana bread. Simply slice it before freezing for convenient servings. Wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. When you're ready to enjoy it again, just thaw a slice at room temperature or toast it directly from the freezer for a warm, comforting treat.

Why Homemade is Best

Making banana bread from scratch not only allows you to control the ingredients but also ensures a fresher taste compared to store-bought options. You can adjust the sweetness and spice levels to your liking, creating a loaf that perfectly suits your palate. Plus, the aroma of baking banana bread is an experience in itself, filling your home with a warm and inviting scent.

Homemade treats are also a wonderful way to connect with friends and family. Whether you’re sharing a loaf at a gathering or gifting a slice to a neighbor, the effort you put into baking from scratch is always appreciated. It’s a simple yet meaningful way to show you care, making your banana bread not just a delicious treat, but a heartfelt gesture as well.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?

Yes, just ensure they are fully thawed and drained of excess moisture before mashing.

→ How should I store the banana bread?

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

→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ How do I know when the bread is done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, it's done.