Introduction
There’s nothing quite like the warm, inviting aroma of freshly baked cinnamon swirl banana bread wafting through your kitchen. This delightful treat combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the cozy flavor of cinnamon, creating a tender loaf that’s perfect for breakfast, a midday snack, or a comforting dessert. It’s an easy recipe that transforms overripe bananas into a rich and satisfying loaf that your family will adore. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe and get your kitchen filled with mouthwatering scents!
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 sugar (for swirls)
- Additional cinnamon sugar for topping (optional)
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 that your banana bread slides out effortlessly.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas with the melted butter, stirring until perfectly combined and smooth.
- Next, incorporate the baking soda and a pinch of salt, mixing well to integrate these essential ingredients.
- Add in the sugar, followed by the beaten egg and vanilla extract, stirring gently until everything is beautifully blended.
- Now it’s time to fold in the all-purpose flour. Mix until just combined, taking care not to overmix for a tender crumb.
- Pour half of the luscious banana bread batter into your prepared loaf pan.
- Sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar mixture over the batter, allowing that delightful sweet and spicy swirl.
- Top it with the remaining batter, then sprinkle with the rest of the cinnamon sugar.
- Using a knife, gently swirl the cinnamon sugar into the batter to create that enticing marbled effect.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 60-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, signaling that your bread is ready.
- Once baked, let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely, filling your home with irresistible smells.
Notes or Tips
- This banana bread is best made with overripe bananas, as they provide the sweetest and most intense flavor.
- For an extra touch, consider adding chopped walnuts or chocolate chips to the batter for added texture and flavor.
- If you prefer a sweeter bread, feel free to sprinkle more cinnamon sugar on top before baking.
Cooking Techniques
Mastering the art of banana bread is all about understanding the ingredients. Start by ensuring your bananas are well-mashed for even distribution. When mixing your ingredients, remember that overmixing can lead to a tough texture—gently folding in the flour is key! Lastly, the swirling technique not only adds visual appeal but allows pockets of cinnamon sweetness to emerge in every slice.
FAQ
Can I freeze the banana bread?
Absolutely! Once cooled, wrap the banana bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
How can I tell when the bread is done?
The best test is to insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, your banana bread is ready to enjoy!
Conclusion
There you have it! A simple yet delectable cinnamon swirl banana bread recipe that’s sure to become a favorite in your home. With its rich flavors and comforting aroma, it’s the perfect way to use up those overripe bananas while indulging in a delicious treat. So, gather your ingredients and bring some warmth to your kitchen today. Happy baking!