Name: Cinnamon Swirled Banana Bread Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: PT-491674H3M30S
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 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; 1 and 1/2 cups mashed ripe banana (about 4 bananas); 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted; 3 tablespoons granulated sugar; 3 tablespoons dark brown sugar; 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon; 6 thin slices of ripe banana

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 14 reviews

If you adore the comforting scent of cinnamon combined with the moist sweetness of ripe bananas, then this Cinnamon Swirled Banana Bread Recipe is about to become your new best friend in the kitchen. Picture this: a tender loaf with warm cinnamon ribbons swirling through every bite, creating a perfect balance between spice and sweetness. The texture is delightfully moist thanks to mashed bananas, and the golden crust hints at buttery richness. Whether you’re baking for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a cozy dessert, this banana bread promises a delicious, heartwarming experience that’s as enjoyable to make as it is to eat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A top view of nine small white bowls arranged on a white marbled surface, each holding a different baking ingredient: mashed yellow bananas with a soft, chunky texture in one bowl, two whole white eggs in another, flour with a powdery white appearance piled high in one, golden melted butter in another, white sugar with a fine texture, several small brown sugar chunks, a small amount of cinnamon powder with a reddish-brown color, a small bowl of vanilla extract in dark amber liquid form, and a white powder of baking soda; all bowls are neatly spaced, showing a variety of textures and shades of brown, white, and yellow. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering a handful of simple, pantry-friendly ingredients is all it takes to whip up this incredible banana bread. Each component plays a role—from lending moisture and structure to infusing that irresistible cinnamon flavor throughout the loaf.

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted: Adds rich, creamy moisture and enhances the bread’s tender crumb.
1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter gently, allowing the banana flavor to shine.
2 large eggs: Bind everything together and contribute to structure and richness.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Elevates the sweetness with aromatic warmth.
2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation that gives the bread its shape and fluffy texture.
1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the loaf rise beautifully and ensures a light crumb.
1 and 1/2 cups mashed ripe banana (about 4 bananas): The star ingredient delivering natural sweetness and moisture.
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (for swirl): Blends into the cinnamon sugar for smooth, luscious swirls.
3 tablespoons granulated sugar (for swirl): Adds crunch and sweetness in the cinnamon ribbons.
3 tablespoons dark brown sugar (for swirl): Imparts a deep molasses flavor enhancing the cinnamon layer.
2 tablespoons ground cinnamon: Brings that fragrant, spicy touch that makes this bread unforgettable.
6 thin slices of ripe banana (for garnish): Decorative and deliciously fresh topping.

How to Make Cinnamon Swirled Banana Bread Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F. Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan to ensure your banana bread releases easily after baking. This simple prep sets you up for baking success without any sticking or mess.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, melt the butter and allow it to cool slightly so it doesn’t cook the eggs when combined. Whisk in granulated sugar to start forming a smooth base, then beat in the eggs and vanilla until everything is well blended. This mixture is the creamy heart that will carry all the flavors in your Cinnamon Swirled Banana Bread Recipe.

Step 3: Incorporate Dry Ingredients and Bananas

Stir in the all-purpose flour and baking soda carefully to avoid overmixing, which keeps your bread tender and light. Fold in the mashed ripe bananas gently—these provide moisture and sweet banana goodness that make this bread uniquely delicious.

Step 4: Make the Cinnamon Sugar Swirl

In a small bowl, stir melted butter with granulated sugar, dark brown sugar, and ground cinnamon until thick and combined. If the mixture feels too stiff to swirl, add a touch more melted butter one tablespoon at a time until it loosens just enough. This swirl is the magic that brings a gorgeous marbled pattern and bursts of cinnamon flavor.

Step 5: Layer and Swirl the Batter

Spread a quarter of the banana batter evenly into the prepared loaf pan. Dollop a quarter of the cinnamon sugar mixture over the batter and use a table knife or wooden spoon handle to swirl it through. Repeat this layering and swirling process two more times with the next portions of batter and cinnamon sugar mixture. Finally, spread the remaining batter on top, add the last of the cinnamon sugar, and create sweeping, large swirls throughout the surface.

Step 6: Garnish and Bake

Place six thin slices of ripe banana down the middle of the top of your loaf batter for a pretty, natural garnish that also adds a fresh banana bite. Set your loaf pan on a baking sheet to catch any drips and bake on the middle rack for 60 to 70 minutes. The bread should turn golden brown, and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean. If the top browns too quickly, tent the loaf loosely with foil for the remainder of baking.

Step 7: Cool and Enjoy

Once baked, let your banana bread cool in the pan for at least 30 minutes. This resting time helps it set properly, so when you turn it onto a wire rack to cool completely, the slices will be clean and perfect for sharing with friends and family.

How to Serve Cinnamon Swirled Banana Bread Recipe

Two slices of cinnamon swirl bread with a light brown base and dark brown swirls lie flat on a white plate with a leaf pattern around the edge. To the top right, a thick loaf of the same bread with a crumbly texture and visible banana slices rests on a white marble board. To the left of the plate, two silver forks cross each other on the white marbled surface. A small glass bowl with three chunks of yellow butter is near the forks. Above the plate, there is a glass jar of cinnamon sugar with a silver lid next to a bottle of milk with two striped straws. On the bottom right corner, three cinnamon sticks lie diagonally on the white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Enhance your Cinnamon Swirled Banana Bread Recipe by topping slices with a spread of softened butter or a drizzle of honey for a subtle sweetness. A dusting of powdered sugar or a light smear of cream cheese frosting also elevates the presentation and adds extra indulgence.

Side Dishes

This banana bread pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or tea, making it a go-to for brunch or an afternoon pick-me-up. For a heartier treat, enjoy it alongside fresh fruit or a scoop of vanilla yogurt, which balances the rich flavors with brightness and creaminess.

Creative Ways to Present

Try making individual servings by slicing the loaf and toasting the pieces lightly. Layer them with nut butter and banana slices for an open-faced sandwich that’s as pretty as it is tasty. Or cube the bread for bread pudding or French toast, giving your Cinnamon Swirled Banana Bread Recipe a delicious twist for any meal occasion.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your leftover banana bread fresh by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or storing it in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay moist and wonderful for up to 3 days, perfect for enjoying as quick snacks or breakfast treats.

Freezing

This Cinnamon Swirled Banana Bread Recipe freezes beautifully. Slice it beforehand and wrap each piece individually to make future breakfasts or snacks super convenient. Frozen banana bread can last up to 3 months when stored properly in freezer-safe bags or containers.

Reheating

Warm your banana bread slices in a toaster oven or microwave for just a few seconds to revive that freshly baked, soft texture. A quick reheat brings out the cinnamon aroma and enhances the moistness, making each bite as delightful as the first.

FAQs

Can I use overripe bananas for this recipe?

Absolutely! Overripe bananas are ideal for this bread because they’re sweeter and mash more easily, creating the perfect moisture and flavor balance in the Cinnamon Swirled Banana Bread Recipe.

What if I don’t have dark brown sugar for the cinnamon swirl?

If you don’t have dark brown sugar, light brown sugar works as a great substitute. It will still add depth and moisture to the cinnamon swirl, giving you that signature taste.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Swap the all-purpose flour for a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Just ensure your blend contains xanthan gum or another binder to maintain the bread’s texture.

How do I know when the banana bread is done?

Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, your Cinnamon Swirled Banana Bread Recipe is perfectly baked and ready to cool.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to this banana bread?

Definitely! Adding chopped walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips can be a delicious variation. Fold them into the batter just before layering and swirling for added texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a cozy, soul-satisfying treat, I promise this Cinnamon Swirled Banana Bread Recipe will become a favorite in your baking rotation. It’s straightforward to make, deeply flavorful, and a beautiful way to use those ripe bananas sitting on your counter. Give it a try—you might just end up baking it every week!