Homemade Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread

Homemade Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread – Perfect for Brunch!

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A Soft, Sweet Hug in Every Slice

Introduction

If comfort had a scent, it would be the smell of warm banana bread with a cinnamon swirl baking in your kitchen. This Homemade Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread is tender, aromatic, and utterly irresistible — a golden loaf that’s perfect for cozy mornings, lazy brunches, or afternoon tea.

The secret is the gooey cinnamon-sugar ribbon that melts through the center, creating a dreamy marbled effect. Add a light drizzle of vanilla icing, and you’ve got a bakery-worthy banana bread that feels both nostalgic and luxurious.

Sliced banana bread on a rustic table with coffee, bananas, and fruit bowl in morning light.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Perfect texture: Soft, moist crumb with a rich banana flavor.
  • Cinnamon swirl magic: A sweet ribbon of cinnamon sugar for an extra cozy twist.
  • Quick to make: No mixer required — just stir, pour, and bake.
  • Beautiful presentation: A golden loaf with a lovely swirl and vanilla glaze.
  • Crowd favorite: Ideal for brunches, gifts, or potluck desserts.

Prep & Cook Time

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 60 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Hand swirling cinnamon into banana bread batter in a metal baking pan by a sunlit window.

Ingredients

Banana Bread

  • 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled)
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ⅔ cup (135g) granulated sugar (or packed brown sugar)
  • 4 tablespoons (56g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
  • 2 large eggs, at room temperature
  • 1½ cups (345g) mashed bananas (about 4 medium or 3 large ripe bananas)
  • ⅓ cup (80g) plain Greek yogurt (or sour cream)
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Cinnamon Swirl

  • ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
  • 1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon

Vanilla Icing

  • ½ cup (60g) confectioners’ sugar, sifted
  • 1 tablespoon (15ml) heavy cream or milk
  • ¼ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Cross-section of banana bread with a visible banana and cinnamon swirls inside.

Instructions

  1. Preheat and prepare:
    Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line with parchment paper.
  2. Mix dry ingredients:
    In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Set aside.
  3. Cream butter and sugar:
    In a large bowl, beat together softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs, mashed bananas, yogurt, and vanilla. Mix until smooth.
  4. Combine:
    Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir gently until just combined — do not overmix.
  5. Add cinnamon swirl:
    Pour half the batter into the loaf pan, sprinkle with the cinnamon-sugar mixture, then top with remaining batter. Swirl lightly with a knife for a marbled effect.
  6. Bake:
    Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  7. Cool & glaze:
    Let cool for 10 minutes, then drizzle with the vanilla icing before slicing.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve warm with butter or honey for an indulgent brunch treat.
  • Pair with coffee or chai latte for the perfect morning ritual.
  • Add chopped walnuts or chocolate chips to the batter for a fun twist.
Loaf of banana bread on a wooden cutting board with bananas in the background.

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

  • Store covered at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate up to 1 week.
  • Freeze slices individually wrapped for up to 3 months.
  • Reheat briefly in the microwave for that fresh-baked warmth.

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