If you’re looking for a show-stopping brunch treat, this cinnamon swirl banana bread is the perfect choice. It takes the classic moist banana bread you know and love and elevates it with a buttery, sweet cinnamon swirl baked right through the middle. The result? A tender loaf with ribbons of cinnamon sugar that tastes like a cross between banana bread and a cinnamon roll—absolutely irresistible!
Ingredients
For the Banana Bread
- 1 ½ cups mashed ripe bananas (about 3–4 medium bananas)
- ½ cup salted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ⅔ cup granulated sugar
- ⅓ cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
For the Cinnamon Swirl
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
Instructions
1. Prep the Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Make the Banana Bread Batter
In a large bowl, whisk together the mashed bananas, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla. Add both sugars and whisk until smooth.
In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined—don’t overmix.
3. Make the Cinnamon Swirl
In a small bowl, stir together the melted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and cinnamon to form a thick paste.
4. Assemble the Layers
Spread half of the banana bread batter into the prepared pan. Drop spoonfuls of half the cinnamon mixture on top and swirl gently with a knife. Add the remaining batter and smooth it out. Top with the remaining cinnamon mixture and swirl again.
5. Bake
Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. If the top begins to brown too quickly, cover the loaf loosely with foil.
6. Cool & Serve
Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve warm or at room temperature.
Tips & Variations
- Add a glaze: Drizzle with a simple vanilla glaze (powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk) once cooled for a cinnamon-roll-style finish.
- Nutty twist: Fold ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts into the batter for extra texture.
- Extra spice: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the cinnamon swirl for more depth.
Storage
- Room Temperature: Store covered for up to 3 days.
- Fridge: Keeps well for up to 5 days.
- Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before serving.
This banana bread is moist, flavorful, and swirled with just the right amount of cinnamon sweetness—perfect for brunch, gifting, or simply enjoying with your morning coffee.
