Dessert

Easy Classic Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread Recipe

ByElla Hart February 27, 2026February 27, 2026

Introduction

This easy classic cinnamon swirl banana bread is a delightful twist on traditional banana bread, combining the sweetness of ripe bananas with a warm cinnamon sugar swirl. It’s a comforting and delicious treat perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a snack any time of day.

Three slices of cinnamon swirl banana bread are arranged side by side on a white plate, each slice showing clear layers: a golden brown crust, soft light beige bread, and a dark brown cinnamon spiral encasing a whole banana in the center of each slice. The top is dusted lightly with powdered sugar. A fork with a piece of bread is resting on the plate next to the slices. The plate sits on a white marbled surface with scattered crumbs and powdered sugar. The background is softly blurred, suggesting a bright window. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2–3 ripe bananas, mashed
1/3 cup melted butter
1 tsp baking soda
A pinch of salt
3/4 cup sugar
1 large egg, beaten
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
For the cinnamon swirl:
- 1/3 cup sugar
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
Step 2: In a small bowl, mix together 1/3 cup sugar and 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon to make the cinnamon swirl. Set aside.
Step 3: In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth. Stir in the melted butter until well combined.
Step 4: Add the baking soda and salt to the banana mixture. Stir in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract until fully combined.
Step 5: Gradually add the flour, stirring gently until just combined. Do not overmix to keep the bread tender.
Step 6: Pour half of the banana batter into the prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the batter.
Step 7: Add the remaining banana batter on top, followed by the remaining cinnamon sugar mixture. Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the cinnamon sugar into the batter, creating a marbled effect.
Step 8: Bake in the preheated oven for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 9: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving.

Tips & Variations

For added texture and flavor, fold in 1/2 cup of chopped nuts or chocolate chips into the batter before baking.
You can adjust the amount of cinnamon sugar to suit your taste preference, making the swirl lighter or bolder.
To keep your bread moist, avoid overmixing the batter.

Storage

Store your banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, warm slices gently in a toaster or microwave until heated through.

How to Serve

Three slices of banana swirl bread are placed on a white plate with a brownish rim. Each slice shows a clear spiral pattern of light brown bread cake and darker cinnamon layers. At the center of each slice, a slice of banana is visible with a pale yellow color and subtle texture. The top of the bread is dusted lightly with white powdered sugar. A small piece of bread crumb is being held on the tip of a fork resting on the plate, next to the slices. The scene is set on a white marbled surface with soft natural window light in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen bananas in this recipe?

Yes, frozen bananas work well. Be sure to thaw them completely before mashing. Since frozen bananas release more moisture, you might need to adjust the flour amount slightly to achieve the right batter consistency.

Can I substitute butter with oil?

Yes, you can use an equal amount of vegetable oil or melted coconut oil instead of melted butter. This substitution may slightly alter the taste and texture but will still result in a delicious banana bread.