Introduction
Welcome to a delightful twist on a classic favorite! This Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread combines the rich flavors of warm, spiced cinnamon with the moist, tender texture of banana bread. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet afternoon treat, this loaf is a wonderful way to use up those ripe bananas. Each slice offers a burst of flavor and a cozy aroma that will make your kitchen feel like a bakery. Let’s dive into the ingredients and get baking!
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened (optional for frosting)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 60-70 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 1 loaf
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan to ensure your delicious creation doesn’t stick.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas and melted butter, stirring until everything is beautifully blended.
- Stir in the granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated for that sweet, rich flavor.
- Add the baking soda and salt and mix until well combined—this will help your bread rise perfectly.
- Gradually add the all-purpose flour, gently stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly okay!
- In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and ground cinnamon, creating your aromatic cinnamon-sugar blend.
- Pour half of the banana bread batter into the prepared loaf pan, then sprinkle with half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture, adding a delightful swirl of sweetness.
- Add the remaining banana bread batter on top and then sprinkle with the rest of the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
- Using a knife or skewer, gently swirl the batter to create a charming marbled effect that will look stunning when baked.
- Bake for about 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean—let that lovely aroma fill your kitchen!
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- If desired, spread softened cream cheese on top before serving, adding a creamy, tangy contrast to the sweet bread.
Notes or Tips
- For an extra touch of flavor, consider adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the batter.
- This bread freezes beautifully! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months—perfect for those mornings when you want a quick treat.
- Make sure your bananas are very ripe; the riper, the better for achieving that sweet, banana flavor.
Cooking Techniques
Swirling the cinnamon-sugar mixture creates a beautiful, marbled appearance, but feel free to get creative! You can layer the batter differently or even add cinnamon to the batter for an elevated flavor. Additionally, the key to a moist banana bread is to be gentle with your mixing—overmixing can lead to a dense texture, and nobody wants that!
FAQ
- Can I use frozen bananas? Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw them and drain any excess moisture before mashing.
- How can I tell when the banana bread is done? A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean, and the bread will have a lovely golden-brown color.
- What should I serve with the banana bread? This banana bread is delicious on its own, but you could also add a pat of butter or serve it with a dollop of cream cheese frosting for a decadent treat!
Conclusion
This Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread is sure to become a favorite in your household. With its enticing blend of flavors and soft, moist texture, it’s perfect for sharing or enjoying solo with a warm cup of coffee. Bake it for a cozy brunch or a delightful dessert—either way, your taste buds will thank you. Happy baking!