Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread is a wonderful twist on classic banana bread, combining sweet bananas with a warm cinnamon sugar ribbon that runs through every slice. The bread is moist and soft, with just the right amount of cinnamon to add a little extra flavor and fun texture.
I love making this bread because it feels like a special treat but is still easy to whip up with simple ingredients. The cinnamon swirl adds a lovely surprise inside, making each bite a bit more exciting than your usual banana bread. I usually sprinkle a little extra cinnamon sugar on top before baking to get a nice crunchy finish.
This bread is perfect for breakfast or a cozy afternoon snack with a cup of tea or coffee. I often slice it up and toast it slightly, which makes that cinnamon sugar crisp even better. It’s a favorite in my kitchen whenever I have some ripe bananas on hand and want something comforting and sweet without too much fuss.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bananas: Use very ripe bananas for the best sweetness and moisture. If you don’t have enough, adding a little applesauce can help keep the bread moist.
Butter: I like using unsalted butter so I can control the saltiness. You can substitute with oil (like vegetable or canola) for a softer texture.
Flour: All-purpose flour works great here. For a healthier option, try half whole wheat flour, but expect a denser loaf.
Buttermilk or Yogurt: These add tang and moisture. If you don’t have either, mix a teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar into regular milk and let it sit for 5 minutes.
Cinnamon Swirl: The brown sugar and cinnamon mix creates that tasty swirl. You can add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice for extra warmth.
How Do You Create a Perfect Cinnamon Swirl without Overmixing?
The secret is to layer the cinnamon sugar between the batter layers and swirl gently:
- Pour half your batter into the pan and spread it evenly.
- Sprinkle half the cinnamon sugar mixture over the batter.
- Add the rest of the batter on top and smooth it out.
- Sprinkle the remaining cinnamon sugar on top.
- Use a butter knife or skewer to gently swirl the layers with slow, controlled motions—don’t overdo it or the swirl will blend too much.
This method keeps the swirl visible and tasty without mixing it into the whole batter, giving your bread that classic cinnamon ribbon look and flavor in every slice.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×5-inch loaf pan – I choose this size because it gives the perfect shape and even baking for the bread.
- Mixing bowls – one medium and one large, so you can easily whisk dry and wet ingredients separately.
- Whisk and spatula – helpful for mixing everything smoothly and folding the batter gently.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accuracy with the flour, sugar, and spices.
- Cooling rack – to let the bread cool evenly and avoid sogginess before slicing.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch and nutty flavor.
- Mix in chocolate chips or butterscotch bits for extra sweetness.
- Combine with blueberries or chopped apples for fruity bursts.
- sprinkle a little ginger or nutmeg in the cinnamon sugar for a warmer spice twist.
Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 3/4 cups (220g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed (about 1 1/2 cups)
- 1/4 cup (60ml) buttermilk or plain yogurt
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (for cinnamon swirl)
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Time You’ll Need:
This banana bread takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 60 to 70 minutes to bake. Plus, you’ll want to let it cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing, so set aside around 1 hour and 30 minutes total from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Pan and Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and lightly flour it, or line the pan with parchment paper. This helps prevent sticking and makes it easier to remove the bread later.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set this aside – these ingredients will give your bread structure and help it rise perfectly.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar:
In a large bowl, use a mixer or a sturdy whisk to cream softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture looks light and fluffy. This step adds nice texture to your bread.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla:
Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in the vanilla extract, which adds lovely aroma and flavor.
5. Combine Bananas and Buttermilk:
Mix in the mashed bananas and buttermilk (or yogurt) until well combined. These ingredients keep the bread moist and tender with a rich banana taste.
6. Add Dry Ingredients:
Gradually stir the flour mixture into the wet ingredients. Mix gently just until you don’t see any dry flour — overmixing can make the bread tough.
7. Make the Cinnamon Swirl:
In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and ground cinnamon together. This mixture will create the delicious cinnamon swirl inside the bread.
8. Layer and Swirl the Batter:
Pour half of the banana bread batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the surface. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over this first layer.
Next, pour the remaining batter on top and smooth it out. Sprinkle the rest of the cinnamon sugar mixture over the top.
Using a butter knife or a skewer, gently swirl through the batter in a figure-eight motion to create pretty cinnamon patterns without overmixing.
9. Bake and Cool:
Bake your bread for 60 to 70 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, the bread is ready. Let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before carefully removing it. Transfer the bread to a wire rack and cool completely before slicing.
10. Enjoy!
Slice your cinnamon swirl banana bread and enjoy it plain or with a little butter or cream cheese. It’s a comforting treat for breakfast, a snack, or dessert!
Can I Use Frozen Bananas for This Bread?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before mashing to avoid a soggy batter.
Can I Substitute Oil for Butter?
Absolutely. Use an equal amount of vegetable or canola oil for a slightly moister bread, though the texture might be a bit different.
How Should I Store Leftover Banana Bread?
Keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. You can also freeze slices wrapped tightly for up to 3 months.
How Do I Make the Cinnamon Swirl More Prominent?
Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar carefully between layers and swirl gently but thoroughly with a knife or skewer. Don’t overmix the batter or the swirl will blend in too much.