Name: Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread with Vanilla Icing Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 3 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled); 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 2/3 cup (135g) granulated sugar (or packed brown sugar); 4 Tablespoons (56g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature; 2 large eggs, at room temperature; 1 and 1/2 cups (345g) mashed bananas (about 4 medium or 3 large ripe bananas); 1/3 cup (80g) plain Greek yogurt (or sour cream); 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar; 1 and 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon; 1/2 cup (60g) confectioners’ sugar, sifted; 1 Tablespoon (15ml) heavy cream or milk; 1/4 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

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If you’ve ever dreamed of a banana bread that feels like a cozy hug with a little extra sparkle, then this Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread with Vanilla Icing Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s packed with moist, tender banana goodness highlighted by a luscious cinnamon sugar swirl right in the middle, and finished off with a smooth, sweet vanilla icing drizzle that makes every bite feel like a celebration. This is not your everyday banana bread; think of it as the dessert-worthy treat that never fails to bring a smile to your face.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl sits on a white marbled surface, filled with a creamy, light beige batter that has a few small lumps and a thick texture. A red spatula with a wooden handle rests inside the bowl, partially covered with the batter, showing it has been stirred. The scene is simple and clean with soft natural light highlighting the smooth, mixed batter. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering these simple, everyday ingredients is your first step toward creating this unforgettable banana bread. Each one plays a key role: from the perfectly ripe bananas adding moisture and sweetness, to the cinnamon bringing that warm spice, and the vanilla icing providing the final touch of pure indulgence.

All-purpose flour (2 cups/250g): The base that gives your bread structure and a tender crumb, measured carefully for the best texture.
Baking soda (1 teaspoon): This leavens the bread, helping it rise nicely without heaviness.
Ground cinnamon (1/2 teaspoon + 1.5 teaspoons for swirl): A signature spice that brings cozy warmth both inside the batter and in the cinnamon swirl.
Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors, balancing out sweetness perfectly.
Granulated sugar (2/3 cup) or brown sugar: Adds sweetness and contributes to moistness and tender crumb.
Unsalted butter (4 tablespoons/56g), softened: Brings richness and keeps the bread delightfully soft.
Large eggs (2), at room temperature: Bind ingredients together and add to the bread’s structure.
Mashed ripe bananas (1 and 1/2 cups/345g): The star ingredient that makes every slice bursting with banana flavor and moisture.
Plain Greek yogurt (1/3 cup/80g) or sour cream: Adds tang and extra moisture for a tender crumb.
Pure vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Elevates the flavor with sweet, floral tones.
Cinnamon sugar swirl: Made from 1/4 cup granulated sugar and 1 and 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon, it creates that irresistible layered surprise.
Vanilla icing: A sweet drizzle made from 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar, 1 tablespoon heavy cream or milk, and 1/4 teaspoon pure vanilla extract — the crowning glory.

How to Make Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread with Vanilla Icing Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Start by adjusting your oven rack to the lower third position, then preheat to 350°F (177°C). This simple step ensures your banana bread won’t get an overly browned top before the inside is perfectly cooked. Grease a 9×5-inch metal loaf pan with nonstick spray so your bread will release easily after baking.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

Whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt in a medium bowl. This dry mix ensures the rise is even and the cinnamon flavor infuses the bread evenly.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar, Then Add Wet Ingredients

Using a mixer, beat softened butter and sugar on high speed until smooth and creamy, about three minutes. This step is crucial for a light texture. Then, on medium speed, add eggs one at a time, making sure each mixes well before adding the next. Follow with mashed bananas, Greek yogurt, and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is well combined.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Lower the mixer speed and gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet batter. Mix just until no flour streaks remain. Over-mixing can make the bread tough, so be gentle and patient.

Step 5: Create the Cinnamon Swirl Layers

Mix granulated sugar with ground cinnamon to make the cinnamon sugar swirl. Pour half the banana batter into your prepared loaf pan, then sprinkle evenly with the cinnamon sugar mixture. Gently spoon the remaining batter on top. Use a knife to swirl through the center, creating that beautiful cinnamon ribbon — but avoid over-swirling to keep defined layers.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake the loaf for 55 to 65 minutes, loosely covering with aluminum foil halfway through baking to prevent over-browning. The bread is ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with only a few moist crumbs attached. Remember, ovens vary, so start checking from the 55-minute mark.

Step 7: Cool and Drizzle Vanilla Icing

Allow the banana bread to cool in the pan on a wire rack for about one hour, then remove it from the pan and let it cool completely. Whisk together confectioners’ sugar, heavy cream (or milk), and vanilla extract to create the luscious icing. Drizzle it over the cooled loaf before slicing to get that lovely glossy top and sweet finish.

How to Serve Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread with Vanilla Icing Recipe

The image shows several slices of a brown cake with a moist texture, arranged in a slightly stacked way on a wooden board. Each slice has dark, thin layers inside, likely chocolate or cinnamon, and there is a white icing drizzled unevenly over the top and parts of the sides, creating a contrast with the cake's darker color. The cake looks soft and fluffy with small holes showing its light crumb. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Sprinkle a little extra cinnamon on top of the vanilla icing for added aroma and a picture-perfect look. For a touch of celebration, scatter some chopped toasted pecans or walnuts—they add both crunch and nutty warmth, uplifting each slice beautifully.

Side Dishes

This cinnamon swirl banana bread pairs wonderfully with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a warm chai latte to amplify its cozy spices. For a fresh contrast, serve alongside a bowl of mixed berries or a small dollop of Greek yogurt for tang.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn slices of this bread into mini layered desserts by stacking them with whipped cream and sliced bananas for a playful twist. Alternatively, toast individual slices and spread with cream cheese or nut butter to start your morning with some extra flair.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled and iced, cover your banana bread tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay soft and delicious for up to two days. If you keep it refrigerated, it will last about a week, though the icing may soak into the top, making it a bit more moist.

Freezing

This bread freezes beautifully! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil or place it in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature, and you’ll have fresh-tasting bread ready to enjoy any time ahead.

Reheating

Reheat slices gently in a toaster oven or microwave for 10 to 15 seconds to revive that fresh-baked warmth. This step brings back the softness and lightly rejuvenates the icing, making it feel freshly made all over again.

FAQs

Can I use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar in this recipe?

Absolutely! Brown sugar adds a deeper, caramel-like flavor and extra moisture, which complements the banana and cinnamon beautifully. Just use the same amount as granulated sugar.

What if I don’t have Greek yogurt or sour cream available?

You can substitute an equal amount of buttermilk or even plain yogurt. These options provide the needed moisture and slight tang to keep your bread tender and flavorful.

How ripe should the bananas be for the best flavor?

Look for bananas that are heavily speckled with brown spots or even mostly brown-skinned. These are at their sweetest and will add the richest flavor and moistness to your bread.

Can I make this bread gluten-free?

Yes! Swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend that contains xanthan gum. This adjustment usually works well, but keep an eye on the bake time as it may vary slightly.

Is the vanilla icing necessary, or can I leave it off?

The vanilla icing adds that signature sweet finish and indulgence that makes this recipe special. However, if you prefer a simpler slice, the bread is absolutely delicious on its own or with just a little butter.

Final Thoughts

This Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread with Vanilla Icing Recipe is a heartfelt favorite that will quickly become a staple in your baking repertoire. It’s the perfect blend of comfort and a touch of extravagance that invites you to slow down and enjoy a sweet moment. Give it a try soon—you’ll fall in love with every bite, just like I did.