Introduction
There’s just something so comforting about the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through the kitchen, and this Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread is no exception. With its rich, sweet banana flavor paired with a delightful swirl of cinnamon and brown sugar, every bite is a cozy reminder of home. It’s not just a simple treat; it’s a warm hug in loaf form!
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 65 minutes
Total Time: 75 minutes
Yield: 1 loaf
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 4×8 inch loaf pan by greasing it gently.
- In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth, then stir in the melted butter until well combined.
- Add in the baking soda and a pinch of salt, mixing until just incorporated.
- Next, blend in the sugar, followed by the beaten egg and vanilla extract, ensuring each ingredient is mixed well before adding the next.
- Gently fold in the all-purpose flour, mixing until just combined; take care not to overmix for a tender loaf.
- In a small bowl, combine the ground cinnamon and brown sugar to create a sweet, fragrant mixture.
- Pour half of the banana bread batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
- Sprinkle half of your cinnamon-sugar mixture over the first layer of batter, creating a beautiful swirl effect.
- Carefully add the remaining banana bread batter on top, spreading it out gently.
- Finally, use a knife to swirl the remaining cinnamon-sugar mixture into the top layer of the batter for a delightful finish.
- Bake in your preheated oven for 60-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, signaling the bread is perfectly baked.
- Once baked, let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. The waiting is the hardest part!
Notes or Tips
For an extra burst of flavor, feel free to add some chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the batter. You can also substitute the white sugar with a sweeter alternative, like coconut sugar, for a deeper flavor profile. Enjoy your warm banana bread fresh out of the oven for the best experience!
Cooking Techniques
The magic of this recipe lies in the simple technique of mixing ingredients without overworking the batter. This ensures a soft, fluffy texture in your bread. Additionally, the swirling of the cinnamon-sugar creates beautiful ribbons of sweetness that not only look stunning but also add layers of flavor as you enjoy each slice.
FAQ
Can I use frozen bananas?
Absolutely! Just thaw them first and mash them as you would fresh bananas. They add a wonderful moisture to the bread.
How do I store leftover banana bread?
Store your banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for a longer shelf life. It also freezes beautifully; wrap it well and enjoy it later!
Conclusion
This Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread is not just a treat; it’s a perfect way to celebrate ripe bananas and a heartfelt recipe to share with family and friends. Whether served warm with a pat of butter or enjoyed as a delightful afternoon snack, every slice is bound to bring joy and comfort. Happy baking!