Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread: The Perfect Sweet Breakfast Loaf for Fall Brunch
Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread: The Perfect Sweet Breakfast Loaf for Fall Brunch
There’s something magical about the comforting aroma of banana bread baking in the oven, especially when it’s infused with warm cinnamon swirls. This cinnamon banana nut bread elevates the classic recipe into a special sweet breakfast loaf that’s perfect for fall mornings and brunch gatherings. Whether you’re looking for banana bread recipe ideas to use up ripe bananas or searching for easy fall baking recipes, this cinnamon-swirled creation will become your new favorite.
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup brown sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl
In a small bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and cinnamon. Set aside – this will create the beautiful marbled effect in your bread.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth. Add the melted butter, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until well combined.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Fold in the chopped nuts.
Step 4: Create the Swirl
Pour half of the banana bread batter into a greased 9×5 inch loaf pan. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the batter. Add the remaining batter, then top with the rest of the cinnamon sugar. Use a knife to gently swirl through the layers.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Expert Tips
- Banana Ripeness: Use bananas with brown spots for maximum sweetness and moisture
- Nut Variations: Swap walnuts for pecans or omit for a nut-free version
- Storage: Wrap tightly and store at room temperature for up to 3 days
- Freezing: This bread freezes beautifully for up to 3 months
- Brunch Upgrade: Serve warm slices with a dollop of Greek yogurt
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this banana bread gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free flour blend for equally delicious results.
How ripe should bananas be for banana bread?
Look for bananas with plenty of brown spots – they’re sweeter and mash more easily, creating a moister bread.
Can I add chocolate chips to this recipe?
Absolutely! Fold in ½ cup of chocolate chips along with the nuts for an extra special treat.
What makes this banana bread perfect for fall?
The warm cinnamon swirl adds cozy autumn flavors that pair perfectly with seasonal spices and cooler weather.
Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread: The Perfect Sweet Breakfast Loaf for Fall Brunch
Ingredients
Method
- Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl: In a small bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and cinnamon. Set aside – this will create the beautiful marbled effect in your bread.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth. Add the melted butter, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until well combined.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Fold in the chopped nuts.
- Create the Swirl: Pour half of the banana bread batter into a greased 9×5 inch loaf pan. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the batter. Add the remaining batter, then top with the rest of the cinnamon sugar. Use a knife to gently swirl through the layers.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
