Introduction
Welcome to a delightful twist on the classic banana bread! This Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread is not only irresistibly moist and flavorful but also accommodates gluten-free and dairy-free diets, making it a perfect treat for everyone. With the warm aroma of cinnamon wafting through your kitchen and the sweet richness of bananas in every bite, this loaf is sure to become a cherished favorite in your home. Whether you’re enjoying it for breakfast, as a snack, or for dessert, each slice is a comforting embrace of flavor that will keep you coming back for more.
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 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 1/2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup walnuts or pecans, chopped (optional)
- 1/4 cup cinnamon sugar (for swirling)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 55 minutes
Total Time: 70 minutes
Yield: 1 loaf
Directions and Instructions
- Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan, ensuring it’s ready for that wonderfully fragrant batter.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas and melted coconut oil, stirring until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Next, add the maple syrup (or honey), eggs, and vanilla extract to the bowl. Mix everything together until well combined, creating a sweet and luscious base.
- Sprinkle the baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon over the banana mixture. Stir gently to incorporate these essential flavors into your batter.
- Gradually fold in the gluten-free all-purpose flour, being careful not to overmix. You want just the right texture for that perfect loaf!
- If you’re adding nuts, fold in the chopped walnuts or pecans at this stage, giving your bread a delightful crunch.
- Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing it out evenly across the bottom.
- Sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar mixture over this layer of batter, infusing it with a sweet swirl of flavor.
- Carefully pour the remaining batter on top, ensuring all the deliciousness is sealed in.
- Finish by sprinkling the rest of the cinnamon sugar over the top of your loaf, adding a touch of sweetness and a beautiful crust.
- Using a knife, gently swirl the cinnamon sugar into the batter in a circular motion, creating a lovely marbled effect that will delight the eye.
- Bake in your preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, signaling that your bread is ready.
- Once baked, allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely, filling your home with its enticing aroma.
Notes or Tips
- For an extra dose of flavor, consider adding some chocolate chips or dried fruit to the batter along with the nuts.
- Make sure your bananas are fully ripe – the more brown spots, the sweeter the bread!
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature or freeze for later enjoyment.
Cooking Techniques
Swirling cinnamon sugar into the batter creates an eye-catching effect and enhances the flavor throughout the bread. Be gentle when mixing to maintain a light and fluffy texture. To check for doneness, remember that a toothpick should come out clean, but watch closely to avoid overbaking, which can lead to a dry loaf.
FAQ
- Can I use regular flour instead of gluten-free? Absolutely! If gluten isn’t an issue for you, regular all-purpose flour can be substituted.
- How can I store this banana bread? Keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate it for a week. It also freezes beautifully!
Conclusion
Your kitchen will become the heart of your home as the smell of this Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread fills the air. Perfect for sharing with friends and family or enjoying with a warm cup of coffee, this recipe is a test of love and comfort in every slice. Happy baking!