Classic Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread

Why this recipe?

This recipe was chosen because it provides a straightforward method for making classic cinnamon swirl banana bread, which is a popular and beloved variation of traditional banana bread. The combination of ripe bananas, warm cinnamon, and sweet sugar creates a comforting and flavorful treat that appeals to many palates.

Additionally, this recipe strikes a balance between simplicity and deliciousness, making it accessible for both novice and experienced bakers. The ingredients are commonly found in most kitchens, and the instructions are easy to follow, ensuring a successful outcome.

If you have any specific preferences or dietary restrictions, such as using alternative flours or sweeteners, feel free to adapt the recipe accordingly. The versatility of banana bread recipes allows for customization to suit individual tastes and needs.

Overall, this recipe was selected to provide you with a delightful baking experience and a scrumptious end result that you can enjoy with family and friends.

Ingredients:

For the Bread:

• 2-3 ripe bananas, mashed
• 1/3 cup melted butter
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• Pinch of salt
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

For the Cinnamon Swirl:

• 1/3 cup sugar
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. Prepare Cinnamon Swirl Mixture: In a small bowl, mix together the 1/3 cup of sugar and 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon for the swirl. Set aside.
3. Prepare Banana Bread Batter: In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth. Add the melted butter and stir to combine. Then add the baking soda and salt. Stir in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract until well combined. Gradually add the flour, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
4. Layer the Batter and Swirl Mixture: Pour half of the banana bread batter into the prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar mixture over the batter. Pour the remaining batter on top, then sprinkle the remaining cinnamon sugar mixture over the surface. Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the cinnamon sugar through the batter, creating a marbled effect.
5. Bake: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the banana bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving.
7. Enjoy: Slice the cooled banana bread and serve it as a delicious treat for breakfast, brunch, or as a snack any time of the day.

Feel free to adjust the amount of cinnamon sugar mixture according to your taste preferences, and enjoy your homemade Classic Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q: Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe? A: Yes, you can use frozen bananas for this recipe. Allow them to thaw before mashing and using in the batter. Frozen bananas tend to release more moisture, so you may need to adjust the flour slightly to achieve the desired consistency.

Q: Can I substitute butter with oil? A: Yes, you can substitute melted butter with an equal amount of vegetable oil or melted coconut oil. This substitution may slightly alter the flavor and texture of the banana bread, but it will still turn out delicious.

Q: How should I store leftover banana bread? A: To keep banana bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. Alternatively, you can store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Banana bread can also be frozen for longer storage. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe container or bag, and store it in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.

Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free? A: Yes, you can make this recipe gluten-free by using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular all-purpose flour. Make sure all other ingredients are also gluten-free, and adjust the baking time if needed.

Q: Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to the banana bread? A: Yes, you can add chopped nuts (such as walnuts or pecans) or chocolate chips to the banana bread batter for extra flavor and texture. Fold them into the batter gently just before pouring it into the loaf pan.

Q: How can I tell when the banana bread is done baking? A: Insert a toothpick into the center of the banana bread. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs clinging to it, the bread is done. If it comes out with wet batter, continue baking for a few more minutes and test again. Be careful not to overbake, as this can result in a dry banana bread.