Soft Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread

The softest, coziest Soft Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread. Sweet, tender, and full of warm cinnamon flavor! This moist loaf is swirled with cinnamon and sugar, perfectly complementing the natural sweetness of ripe bananas. It makes for the ultimate breakfast, snack, or tea-time treat. It’s simple yet comforting. And it’s best served warm, straight from the oven, with that sweet, cinnamon-kissed aroma. You will LOVE this bread.

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It’s so funny how chilly afternoons always make me reach for banana bread. I find myself baking loaf after loaf. The crisp air and quiet house make me think of the cozy mornings when I was a kid, watching my mom mash bananas and sprinkle cinnamon sugar. It’s her love for homemade treats that inspires me to keep baking this classic loaf over and over.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This banana bread is soft, fragrant, and bursting with cozy cinnamon flavor that makes every bite feel like home.

Tender texture: The loaf stays soft and moist thanks to perfectly ripe bananas and a touch of butter.

Cinnamon swirls: A simple cinnamon-sugar mixture adds a subtle, sweet spice that elevates the flavor.

Quick and easy: Uses basic pantry ingredients and mixes in one bowl, making it approachable for bakers of all levels.

Kid-friendly: Kids love the sweet aroma and tender slices perfect for breakfast, snacks, or lunchboxes.

Versatile: Enjoy it warm with butter, toasted, or even with a scoop of ice cream for dessert.

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Ingredients

For the Banana Bread Batter:

• 3 very ripe bananas, mashed
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

For the Cinnamon Swirl:

• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Optional Add-ins:

• Chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)
• Chocolate chips
• A drizzle of honey or maple syrup for serving

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Oven and Pan

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal. This ensures your banana bread won’t stick and will bake evenly.

2. Make the Batter

In a large mixing bowl, mash the bananas until smooth. Stir in the melted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla until combined. Gradually fold in the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to maintain a tender, soft texture.

3. Create the Cinnamon Swirl

In a small bowl, combine 1/4 cup sugar and 1 teaspoon cinnamon. Pour half of the banana bread batter into the prepared pan. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon mixture over the batter. Add the remaining batter on top, then swirl the remaining cinnamon sugar with a knife to create a marbled effect.

4. Bake the Bread

Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 55–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Check at 50 minutes; if the top is browning too quickly, loosely cover it with foil.

5. Cool and Serve

Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Slice it thick or thin, warm or room temperature. For extra indulgence, serve with a pat of butter, a drizzle of honey, or even a spread of cream cheese.

Tips & Variations

• Extra moist: Use very ripe bananas and avoid overmixing the batter.
• Flavor boost: Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the batter for a warm, cozy note.
• Nutty variation: Stir in 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch.
• Chocolate twist: Mix in chocolate chips for a sweet surprise in every bite.
• Make ahead: Wrap cooled slices tightly in plastic wrap or foil; store at room temperature for 2–3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

Serving Suggestions

Soft Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. Serve it warm with butter for breakfast or as an afternoon snack. For dessert, top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. It also makes a fun addition to brunch alongside fresh fruit, yogurt, and granola.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen bananas?

Yes! Thaw them completely and drain excess liquid before mashing for the best texture.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Absolutely. Swap the butter with coconut oil or a plant-based margarine.

How long does it stay fresh?

Wrapped tightly, it keeps at room temperature for up to 3 days. Refrigerate up to a week or freeze for longer storage.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes. Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend; the bread will still remain soft and moist.

Can I add extras like nuts or chocolate?

Definitely! Fold in 1/2 cup of nuts, chocolate chips, or even dried fruit for extra flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

Soft Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread is exactly what comfort baking should feel like: warm, tender, and filled with cozy flavor. The cinnamon swirls elevate the classic banana bread while keeping it simple and approachable. It’s perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert, and it fills your kitchen with that unbeatable, inviting aroma. Each slice is a little piece of homemade happiness.