Introduction
There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through your home, and this Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread is no exception. It’s the perfect blend of ripe bananas and sweet cinnamon, creating a moist and flavorful loaf that is simply irresistible. Whether you’re enjoying a cozy breakfast or an afternoon snack, this delightful bread is sure to bring a smile to your face. With just a handful of ingredients and a few simple steps, you’ll have a warm slice of comfort food ready to enjoy!
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 cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons 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 generously grease a 4×8 inch loaf pan.
- In a mixing bowl, use a fork to mash the ripe bananas until smooth and creamy.
- Stir in the melted butter until well combined with the bananas.
- Add the baking soda and a pinch of salt, mixing until incorporated.
- Next, blend in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract. Combine until the mixture is smooth.
- Now, gently stir in the all-purpose flour until just combined; be careful not to overmix for a tender loaf.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the cinnamon and brown sugar until evenly mixed.
- Pour half of the banana bread batter into the prepared loaf pan.
- Sprinkle half of the cinnamon-brown sugar mixture over the batter, creating a sweet layer.
- Add the remaining banana bread batter on top, smoothing it out carefully.
- Sprinkle the rest of the cinnamon-brown sugar mixture over the top of the batter.
- Using a knife or skewer, gently swirl the cinnamon mixture into the batter to create a beautiful marbled effect.
- Place the loaf in the preheated oven and bake for 60-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes or Tips
For the best flavor, use very ripe bananas that have brown spots — they are sweeter and add a lovely richness to the bread. Feel free to add in some chopped nuts or chocolate chips for an extra twist! This bread can be stored at room temperature for a few days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. It also freezes beautifully; just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil for up to 3 months.
Cooking Techniques
When mixing the batter, remember that overmixing can lead to a denser loaf, so stir gently just until combined. Swirling the cinnamon mixture into the batter adds both flavor and visual appeal. This technique creates a beautiful pattern and ensures that each slice has a delightful burst of cinnamon sweetness.
FAQ
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but the texture may be denser. You could also use a blend of whole wheat and all-purpose for a lighter loaf.
What can I do if I don’t have brown sugar?
You can easily make your own brown sugar by mixing white sugar with a bit of molasses (1 tablespoon of molasses for 1 cup of sugar) or simply use an equal amount of granulated sugar.
Conclusion
This Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread is not just a treat for the taste buds, but it also fills your home with warmth and happiness. It’s a recipe that brings back memories of cozy mornings and shared moments with loved ones. So gather up those ripe bananas and create a loaf that will surely become a family favorite. Enjoy each slice with love and a cup of your favorite beverage!