Cinnamon Banana Bread Recipe

There's something truly magical about the scent of cinnamon banana bread baking in the oven. The warm aroma of ripe bananas and fragrant cinnamon wafts through the house, wrapping you in a cozy hug. Whether you're looking for a quick breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a sweet gift for a friend, this recipe is the answer.

I first made this banana bread as a way to use up a few overripe bananas. With the addition of a generous dose of cinnamon, it quickly became a household favorite. Now, it's the treat we look forward to on lazy weekends or whenever we're craving a slice of something comforting.

Why You'll Love This Cinnamon Banana Bread

Get ready to fall in love with this Cinnamon Banana Bread. It’s more than just a dessert – it’s a warm, nostalgic embrace that’s easy to bake and impossible to resist.

First off, it’s so simple to make. With just one bowl and common pantry ingredients, you can have this loaf in the oven in under 15 minutes. Perfect for beginners or seasoned bakers alike.

The moist, tender texture is unmatched. Thanks to ripe bananas and a touch of yogurt (or sour cream), every slice is soft and rich without being overly dense. Pair it with a cup of coffee, and you've got the ultimate breakfast treat.

What truly sets this banana bread apart is the cinnamon swirl. A sweet, spiced ribbon runs through the center, delivering a burst of flavor in every bite. It elevates a classic recipe into something truly special.

Lastly, it’s incredibly versatile. Add nuts, chocolate chips, or even a crumb topping for a fun twist. However you customize it, this recipe adapts beautifully.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients. Each one plays an essential role in achieving the perfect loaf.

• Bananas: Use overripe bananas with plenty of brown spots. They’re naturally sweeter and easier to mash, ensuring a rich, banana-forward flavor.
• Cinnamon: The star spice! A full tablespoon is folded into the batter, with extra used for the swirl. Its warm, earthy notes balance the sweetness beautifully.
• Flour: Regular all-purpose flour works perfectly. For a healthier twist, you can substitute half the flour with whole wheat, but the loaf will be slightly denser.
• Yogurt or Sour Cream: This is the secret to that moist, tender crumb. If you don’t have either, buttermilk makes a great substitute.
• Butter and Sugar: Melted butter adds richness, while granulated sugar keeps the sweetness balanced. For a more caramelized flavor, swap some of the sugar for brown sugar.

Equipment Note: You'll need a standard 9x5-inch loaf pan, parchment paper, and a hand mixer (optional).

How To Make Cinnamon Banana Bread

Creating this Cinnamon Banana Bread is as easy as mix, pour, and bake! Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure your loaf turns out perfect every time.

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Mash Bananas and Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, mash 3 ripe bananas until smooth. Stir in melted butter (½ cup), ½ cup granulated sugar, and ½ cup packed brown sugar. Whisk until the mixture is well-combined and creamy. Add 2 large eggs, one at a time, followed by ½ cup yogurt and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.

Step 3: Fold in Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon cinnamon, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and ½ teaspoon salt. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, being careful not to overmix.

Step 4: Create the Cinnamon Swirl

Pour half the batter into the prepared loaf pan. In a small bowl, mix 3 tablespoons sugar and 1 tablespoon cinnamon. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the batter, then top with the remaining batter. Use a knife to gently swirl the cinnamon layer for a marbled effect.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy warm slices straight from the oven, or store for later – it’s just as delicious the next day!

Storage Options

This Cinnamon Banana Bread keeps wonderfully, making it perfect for meal prep or gifting.

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Wrap slices individually for grab-and-go convenience.
• Refrigerator: Extend its freshness by storing it in the fridge for up to 5 days. Just let it come to room temperature or warm in the microwave before serving.
• Freezer: Wrap the entire loaf or individual slices in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or reheat directly from frozen.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is endlessly customizable. Here are some fun ways to make it your own:

• Chocolate Chip Banana Bread: Fold ½ cup chocolate chips into the batter before baking.
• Nutty Banana Bread: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a satisfying crunch.
• Gluten-Free Version: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.
• Crumb Topping: Mix ¼ cup flour, ¼ cup brown sugar, and 2 tablespoons butter to sprinkle on top before baking for a bakery-style finish.

Experiment with your favorite mix-ins and flavors – the possibilities are endless!

This Cinnamon Banana Bread is the ultimate comfort bake. With its soft, moist crumb and irresistible cinnamon swirl, it’s guaranteed to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you're enjoying it fresh from the oven or savoring a slice with your morning coffee, this recipe will make every moment a little sweeter.

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