Introduction
There’s something undeniably comforting about the scent of freshly baked banana bread wafting through the kitchen. This Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread is not only a delightful treat but also offers that irresistible swirl of cinnamon and sugar that takes it to the next level. Perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or as a sweet dessert, this recipe is easy to whip up and can be customized to fit gluten-free and dairy-free dietary needs, ensuring that everyone can enjoy a slice of this deliciousness!
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/3 cup melted coconut oil
- 1/2 cup maple syrup or honey
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup coconut sugar (for the swirl)
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (for the swirl)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 65 minutes
Total Time: 80 minutes
Yield: 1 loaf
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan, ensuring it’s ready to hold your delicious creation.
- In a large bowl, combine the mashed bananas with melted coconut oil, mixing until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency.
- Add in the maple syrup (or honey), eggs, and vanilla extract, stirring until all the wet ingredients are well blended together.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the gluten-free all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon, ensuring everything is evenly mixed.
- Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine!
- In a small bowl, combine the coconut sugar and additional cinnamon to create the delightful swirl mixture.
- Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing it out gently with a spatula. Then, sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture over this layer.
- Add the remaining batter on top, swirling with a knife to create a beautiful marbled effect. Finish by sprinkling the remaining cinnamon-sugar mixture on top.
- Bake for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, revealing that your banana bread is perfectly baked.
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack, where it can cool completely.
Notes or Tips
For an extra touch of flavor, consider adding chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter. If you don’t have gluten-free flour, you can also use regular all-purpose flour for a delightful traditional banana bread. Enjoy a slice warm, slathered in a bit of nut butter for a deliciously filling snack!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe uses the creaming method for mixing wet and dry ingredients, creating a light and fluffy texture in your bread. Remember not to overmix once you combine the dry and wet ingredients; this helps maintain a tender crumb in your finished loaf.
FAQ
Can I substitute the coconut oil?
Yes! You may use unsalted butter or another neutral oil if you prefer.
How should I store leftover banana bread?
Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for a week. You can also freeze the bread for longer storage; just wrap it tightly.
Conclusion
With its delicious cinnamon-swirled goodness, this Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread is sure to become a beloved recipe in your kitchen. Whether shared with family and friends or enjoyed solo with a cup of coffee, each bite promises warmth and comfort. Happy baking!