If you are looking for a delicious way to transform those overripe bananas sitting on your counter, this Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread is pure magic in loaf form. Every slice has the perfect balance of sweet, tender banana bread infused with a warm cinnamon swirl that adds a layer of cozy spice and visual delight. It’s not just banana bread; it’s a treat that feels like a warm hug on a chilly morning or a comforting dessert after a long day. Once you try this recipe, Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread will quickly become a beloved staple in your kitchen.

Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays an essential role, creating that moist, tender crumb and spicy swirl that make this bread so memorable. From the ripe bananas that bring natural sweetness to the cinnamon that gives it a warm spice kick, you’ll find the list both straightforward and indispensable.

2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation that provides structure to the bread.
1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the bread rise and become fluffy.
1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and moisture.
3/4 cup brown sugar: Imparts an earthy caramel note and deep sweetness.
2 large eggs, room temperature: Binds ingredients and adds tenderness.
1/3 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream: Gives moisture and a slight tanginess for balance.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings aromatic warmth and depth.
4 ripe bananas, mashed: The star ingredient providing natural sweetness and moist texture.
1/3 cup granulated sugar: Used for the cinnamon swirl to add crunch and sweetness.
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon: Creates that iconic warm, spicy swirl throughout the bread.

How to Make Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan generously or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Taking this simple step ensures your banana bread will release effortlessly after baking, keeping every slice pristine.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. This mixture forms the structural base of your bread and evenly distributes the leavening agent, which helps the batter rise beautifully and prevents any lumps of baking soda from causing uneven texture.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Brown Sugar

Using a mixer, beat the softened butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy. This process doesn’t just combine the two—it incorporates air that will make your banana bread tender and give it a lovely crumb.

Step 4: Add Eggs, Yogurt, and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully mixed before adding the next. Then stir in the Greek yogurt and vanilla extract until the batter looks smooth and cohesive. These ingredients add moisture and a subtle tang that uplifts the overall flavor.

Step 5: Mix in the Mashed Bananas

Fold in your ripe, mashed bananas until fully combined. Be careful not to leave large chunks, as evenly distributed banana will give the bread moistness with every bite and a naturally sweet flavor that shines.

Step 6: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients

Slowly add the flour mixture to your wet banana batter, stirring gently until just combined. Overmixing here can make your bread tough, so it’s best to stop as soon as you can no longer see flour streaks.

Step 7: Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Swirl

Mix granulated sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. This magical combo is the secret that transforms a simple banana bread into the luscious Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread everyone will rave about.

Step 8: Layer Batter and Cinnamon Sugar

Pour half the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar evenly over the surface. Then add the remaining batter on top and sprinkle the rest of the cinnamon sugar across the final layer.

Step 9: Create the Swirl Effect

Grab a butter knife and gently swirl the cinnamon sugar into the batter in a figure-eight motion. This creates beautiful marbled streaks of cinnamon throughout the bread, meaning every bite gets that perfectly balanced cinnamon flavor.

Step 10: Bake to Perfection

Bake your loaf for 60 to 65 minutes, or until you can insert a toothpick in the center and it comes out clean. The smell filling your kitchen by this time will be irresistible, signaling that your Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread is ready to be enjoyed.

Step 11: Cool Before Slicing

Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes so it sets a bit. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling step helps your slices hold together beautifully instead of crumbling.

How to Serve Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread

Garnishes

To elevate your Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread, consider light garnishes like a dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream. Fresh sliced bananas or a drizzle of honey can highlight the banana flavor beautifully while adding a touch of fresh sweetness.

Side Dishes

This bread pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or tea, making it an ideal breakfast or afternoon treat. For a more substantial spread, serve alongside creamy yogurt or a charcuterie board featuring mild cheeses and fruit for a balanced gathering snack.

Creative Ways to Present

Try toasting slices lightly and spreading with almond butter or cream cheese for a delightful snack. You can also cube the bread and serve it as part of a bread pudding or simply mix it with vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert featuring the star Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread flavors.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap leftover Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It keeps well at room temperature for up to 3 days, maintaining that tender texture and moist crumb you love.

Freezing

For longer storage, slice the bread and freeze individual pieces in ziplock bags or airtight containers. This allows you to enjoy Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread whenever cravings hit, simply thawing slices at room temperature or melting them gently in the toaster.

Reheating

To revive the warmth and softness, pop slices in a toaster oven or microwave briefly. Adding a thin spread of butter before reheating helps to bring back that freshly baked taste and luscious texture, making every bite like the very first.

FAQs

Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?

Yes, you can substitute regular yogurt, but Greek yogurt adds extra moisture and a thicker texture, giving the bread a slight tang and richness that balances the sweetness wonderfully.

What happens if I don’t have ripe bananas?

Ripe bananas are key because they’re sweeter and softer, which helps the bread be moist and flavorful. If your bananas aren’t quite ripe, try ripening them in a paper bag or bake them briefly in the oven to soften and sweeten.

How important is it to swirl the cinnamon sugar?

The swirl is what sets this bread apart, creating those beautiful cinnamon ribbons that pack flavor into every bite. While you could mix it all in, the distinct swirl gives a signature look and taste that’s worth the extra step.

Can I make this bread gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend as a substitute, and be sure it contains xanthan gum for structure. The texture may be slightly different but still delicious and moist.

How long will the bread stay fresh?

When stored properly at room temperature, Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread stays fresh for about 3 days. You can refrigerate it to extend its life by a few days, but this may dry it out slightly, so reheat before serving.

Final Thoughts

This Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread is more than just a recipe; it’s a slice of comfort and joy that’s simple enough for any day but special enough to impress. From the first bite’s moist banana sweetness mingled with that irresistible cinnamon swirl to the warm aroma filling your kitchen as it bakes, it’s an experience worth sharing. Give this recipe a try and let it become your go-to for cozy mornings, snack time, or anytime you need a little homemade comfort.

Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 31 reviews

Author: Lily
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Yield: 1 loaf (about 10–12 slices) 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

This Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread combines moist, flavorful banana bread with a sweet cinnamon-sugar swirl throughout. The Greek yogurt adds moisture and tenderness, while the cinnamon swirl provides a delightful burst of warm spice in every bite. Perfect for breakfast or a comforting snack.

Instructions

Preheat oven and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to ensure the bread does not stick after baking.
Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Set this mixture aside for later use.
Cream butter and sugar: In a large bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream the softened butter and brown sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes.
Add eggs and flavorings: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, add the Greek yogurt and vanilla extract, mixing until completely smooth.
Incorporate bananas: Stir in the mashed ripe bananas, making sure the mixture is smooth with no large chunks remaining for even texture throughout the bread.
Combine dry and wet ingredients: Gently fold the dry ingredient mixture into the banana mixture, stirring just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender.
Prepare cinnamon sugar: In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon to create the cinnamon-sugar swirl.
Layer batter and cinnamon sugar: Pour half of the batter into your prepared loaf pan and sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over it.
Add remaining batter and cinnamon sugar: Pour the remaining batter on top and spread it evenly. Then sprinkle the remaining cinnamon-sugar mixture on top.
Create the swirl pattern: Using a butter knife, gently swirl the cinnamon sugar into the batter to form a marbled cinnamon pattern throughout the bread.
Bake the bread: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 60 to 65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool before serving: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then transfer the bread onto a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving.

Notes

Make sure bananas are very ripe for the best flavor and sweetness.
Use room temperature eggs to help the batter mix better and produce a lighter texture.
Do not overmix the batter once the flour is added to avoid a dense bread.
You can substitute the Greek yogurt with sour cream if desired for similar moisture and texture.
Store banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking flour blend.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 60-65 minutes
Category: Breakfast, Snack, Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12 of loaf)
Calories: 220 kcal
Sugar: 16 g
Sodium: 150 mg
Fat: 8 g
Saturated Fat: 4.5 g
Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 34 g
Fiber: 2 g
Protein: 3 g
Cholesterol: 55 mg

Keywords: banana bread, cinnamon swirl, banana recipe, breakfast bread, cinnamon sugar, moist banana bread