Introduction
Welcome to your new favorite breakfast treat! This Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread is a delightful way to start your day or simply enjoy as a sweet snack. With the warm aroma of cinnamon and ripe bananas wafting through your kitchen, this bread is not just about taste; it’s about enveloping your senses in comfort and nostalgia. The delightful swirls of cinnamon and brown sugar add a burst of flavor that elevates a simple banana bread into a cinnamon lover’s dream. Let’s get baking!
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: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 65 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Yield: 1 loaf
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 4×8 inch loaf pan to ensure easy release after baking.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter with the mashed bananas, mixing until well blended and creamy.
- Add the baking soda and a pinch of salt to the mixture, stirring until evenly incorporated.
- Next, mix in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract, stirring until everything is combined and smooth.
- Gently fold in the all-purpose flour until just combined—don’t overmix as we want a tender loaf!
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the ground cinnamon and brown sugar for the swirling goodness.
- Pour half of the banana bread batter into your prepared loaf pan, spreading it out evenly.
- Sprinkle half of the cinnamon-brown sugar mixture over the batter, ensuring every bite will have a burst of flavor.
- Pour the remaining batter on top of the cinnamon layer, followed by the rest of the cinnamon-brown sugar mixture.
- Using a knife, gently swirl the batter to create those beautiful cinnamon ribbons throughout.
- Bake in your preheated oven for 60-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean.
- Once baked to golden perfection, allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes or Tips
For an extra touch, feel free to add chopped nuts or chocolate chips into the batter. Walnuts or pecans pair beautifully with the cinnamon flavor. Also, make sure your bananas are ripe—this not only enhances the flavor but also contributes to a moist texture!
Cooking Techniques
Swirling the batter with a knife adds visual appeal and enhances the flavor distribution in each slice. Be gentle to avoid over-mixing, which can lead to a denser bread. The perfect banana bread has a crispy crust with a soft, tender crumb, and this technique helps achieve that delightful balance.
FAQ
Can I freeze the banana bread?
Absolutely! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight container. It will keep in the freezer for up to three months. Simply thaw overnight in the fridge when you’re ready to enjoy a slice!
How ripe should my bananas be?
The riper, the better! Look for bananas with lots of brown spots or a deep yellow color. They will provide the sweetness and moisture that make this bread so delicious.
Conclusion
Baking this Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread is a wonderful way to fill your home with inviting scents and create a comforting treat that everyone will cherish. Whether you’re enjoying a slice with your morning coffee or sharing it with loved ones, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Happy baking!