Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread
A delightful cinnamon swirl banana bread that balances sweetness, warmth, and heartiness, perfect for morning coffee or afternoon treats.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 medium Ripe bananas Must be overripe for optimal sweetness.
- 1/2 cup Unsalted butter, melted Enhances flavor and moisture.
- 1 teaspoon Baking soda Leavening agent.
- 1/4 teaspoon Kosher salt Enhances flavor.
- 1/2 cup Granulated sugar Sweetens the batter.
- 1 large Egg, beaten Binds ingredients.
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract Enhances flavor.
- 1 1/2 cups All-purpose flour Provides structure.
- 1 teaspoon Ground cinnamon Added flavor for the swirl.
- 1/2 cup Brown sugar Adds depth and moisture.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 4x8 inch loaf pan.
- Mash the ripe bananas in a mixing bowl until smooth, then stir in the melted butter.
- In a separate bowl, mix the baking soda and kosher salt, then incorporate into the banana mixture.
- Add granulated sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract to the banana mixture and mix well.
- Gently fold in the all-purpose flour until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
Cinnamon Sugar Mixture
- Combine ground cinnamon and brown sugar in a small bowl.
Assembly & Baking
- Pour half of the banana bread batter into the greased loaf pan.
- Sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture over this layer. Add the remaining batter and top with the rest of the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
- Using a knife, gently swirl the mixtures together to combine without overmixing.
- Bake for 60 to 65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the loaf cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
For a richer flavor, consider adding chocolate chips or nuts. Allow loaf to cool completely before slicing for the best texture.