Introduction
There’s something irresistibly cozy about the smell of freshly baked banana bread wafting through the kitchen. This Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread is not just any bread; it’s a delightful creation that combines the sweetness of ripe bananas with a rich, warm cinnamon swirl. Each slice offers a tender crumb that’s bursting with flavor, making it the perfect treat for breakfast, a snack, or a comforting dessert. Let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe that’s sure to become a favorite in your home!
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
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). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan to ensure easy removal of the bread.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas and melted butter until thoroughly blended.
- Stir in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract, mixing until the ingredients are well combined and everything is evenly incorporated.
- Sprinkle the baking soda and a pinch of salt over the mixture, stirring gently to mix.
- Add the flour and fold it in until just combined; be careful not to overmix to keep the bread tender.
- In a small bowl, combine the cinnamon and brown sugar to create the delicious swirl mixture.
- Pour half of the banana bread batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing it out evenly.
- Sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the batter, creating a sweet layer.
- Pour in the remaining batter and top with the rest of the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
- Using a knife, gently swirl the cinnamon mixture into the batter to create a beautiful marbled effect.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 60-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Once baked, allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes or Tips
For an extra touch of flavor, consider adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the batter before swirling. Make sure your bananas are very ripe; the darker the skins, the sweeter your bread will be!
Cooking Techniques
Swirling the cinnamon-sugar mixture is a key technique here. Use a gentle hand to ensure it’s blended nicely without fully incorporating it into the batter — this creates those delightful bursts of flavor throughout the loaf. Remember, the secret to delicious banana bread is to not overmix once you add the flour!
FAQ
Can I use frozen bananas?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before mashing.
How should I store the banana bread?
Store it at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage. Make sure to wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn.
Conclusion
This Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread is sure to warm your heart and fill your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas. It’s simple, delicious, and a wonderful way to use up those ripe bananas sitting on your counter. So grab a slice, pour yourself a cup of coffee, and enjoy the delightful comforts of home baking!