Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread is a cozy, sweet treat that’s perfect any time of day. It’s moist and tender thanks to ripe bananas, with a delicious cinnamon sugar swirl running right through the middle that adds just the right bit of spicy warmth. The mix of soft banana flavor and cinnamon sugar is a classic combo that makes every bite feel homemade and comforting.
I love making this banana bread when I have a few very ripe bananas and want something extra special. The cinnamon swirl is my favorite part because it gives a little surprise in each slice—sometimes it’s gooey and cinnamon-sugary, other times it’s just a gentle hint of spice. It’s one of those recipes that makes your kitchen smell amazing while it bakes, and honestly, I find that part just as enjoyable as eating the bread!
My go-to way to enjoy this bread is warm with a little butter melting on top. It’s simple but so satisfying, especially with a cup of coffee or tea. It’s also great to pack in lunches or take to a friend’s house since it’s both delicious and easy to share. If you haven’t tried cinnamon swirl banana bread yet, it’s a cozy twist on a classic, and I’m pretty sure you’ll love it as much as I do.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bananas: Ripe bananas are essential for moist, flavorful bread. The riper, the better—they add natural sweetness. If you want a slightly tangier touch, try using some mashed overripe plantains.
Butter: Unsalted butter adds richness. You can swap it with coconut oil or a neutral vegetable oil for a dairy-free option. Just remember oil may make the bread a bit denser.
Sour Cream or Yogurt: These keep the bread moist and tender. Greek yogurt works well too and adds a nice tang. For dairy-free, try coconut yogurt or applesauce (though applesauce may change texture).
Cinnamon Swirl: The cinnamon and brown sugar blend is what gives this bread its signature warm, sweet twist. If you love spice, add a pinch of nutmeg or ground cloves.
How Can You Get a Perfect and Even Cinnamon Swirl?
The cinnamon swirl is both tasty and eye-catching but can be tricky. Here’s how to get a beautiful, even swirl:
- Pour half the banana batter into the pan smoothly—don’t press it down hard.
- Drop the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the batter, spreading it gently with the back of a spoon.
- Add the second half of the batter slowly on top.
- Use a butter knife or skewer to swirl the cinnamon mixture into the batter. Move the knife in a figure-eight or circular motion, but don’t over-swirl—this keeps the swirl distinct.
Swirling just enough will help create those pretty layers without mixing the two batters together fully. This step makes the bread look great and gives you delicious bites with cinnamon in every slice!
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×5 inch loaf pan – I like this size because it gives the bread a nice, tall shape and slices easily.
- Medium mixing bowls – you’ll need one for dry ingredients and one for wet ingredients; they make mixing simple and keep things organized.
- Whisk or electric mixer – helps you combine the ingredients smoothly and beat the butter and sugar until fluffy.
- Rubber spatula – perfect for folding and scraping batter from the bowls without losing air or bits of mixture.
- Skewer or butter knife – essential for swirling the cinnamon sugar into the batter to create that beautiful marbled effect.
- Baking sheet (optional) – useful if you’re using parchment paper to prevent sticking or to catch drips during baking.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Chocolate chips: Stir in a handful of chocolate chips with the batter for a sweet, melty surprise in each slice.
- Walnuts or pecans: Add chopped nuts for crunch and extra flavor—perfect if you love a bit of texture.
- Blueberries or raspberries: Gently fold in fresh or frozen berries for a fruity twist that pairs beautifully with banana.
- Spices: Enhance the cinnamon by mixing in a pinch of nutmeg, allspice, or ginger for more warmth and complexity.
Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Banana Bread:
- 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed (about 1 1/2 cups)
- 1/4 cup (60ml) sour cream or plain yogurt
For The Cinnamon Swirl:
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
How Much Time Will You Need?
This banana bread takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 60-70 minutes to bake. Once baked, allow about 10 minutes to cool in the pan before transferring to a rack. Overall, plan for roughly 1 hour and 25 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Pan and Ingredients:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan and lightly flour it, or line it with parchment paper to avoid sticking. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
2. Make the Banana Bread Batter:
In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3 to 4 minutes. Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is well blended. Stir in the vanilla extract. Next, mix in the mashed bananas and sour cream just until combined. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, being careful not to overmix, so your bread stays tender.
3. Create the Cinnamon Swirl and Assemble:
In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and melted butter to make the cinnamon swirl. Pour half of the banana batter into your prepared loaf pan. Evenly spoon half of the cinnamon swirl mixture over the batter. Next, add the remaining banana batter on top, and finish by spooning the rest of the cinnamon mixture on the surface. Using a butter knife or skewer, gently swirl the cinnamon sugar mixture through the batter to create a marbled effect.
4. Bake and Cool:
Bake in your preheated oven for 60 to 70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few crumbs. Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. This helps the bread set nicely and makes it easier to cut.
Enjoy your warm or room-temperature Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread as a delicious breakfast treat, snack, or dessert!
Can I Use Frozen Bananas for This Banana Bread?
Yes, frozen bananas work perfectly! Just thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before mashing to avoid making the batter too watery.
Can I Substitute Greek Yogurt for Sour Cream?
Absolutely! Greek yogurt is a great substitute and will keep the bread moist while adding a slight tangy flavor.
How Do I Store Leftover Banana Bread?
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months—just thaw before serving.
How Can I Make the Cinnamon Swirl More Defined?
Be gentle when swirling the cinnamon mixture into the batter—use a light hand with a knife or skewer and swirl just a few times to create clear, pretty layers without blending everything together.