There’s nothing quite like the smell of freshly baked Cinnamon Banana Bread filling your kitchen. The warm aroma of cinnamon mingling with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. This comforting loaf is perfect for breakfast, a midday snack, or even dessert, and it’s guaranteed to bring smiles to the table.
I first made this recipe on a lazy Sunday morning when I had a few overripe bananas sitting on the counter. With a sprinkle of cinnamon and a touch of love, this banana bread has become a staple in my kitchen. Let’s dive into what makes it so special!
Why You'll Love This Cinnamon Banana Bread Recipe
Get ready to add this Cinnamon Banana Bread to your list of go-to baked goods. Not only is it delicious, but it also hits all the marks for a must-try recipe.
First, this bread is incredibly easy to make. You don’t need any fancy equipment or advanced baking skills. A few mixing bowls, a whisk, and a loaf pan are all you need to create this masterpiece.
The combination of bananas and cinnamon gives it a rich, cozy flavor that’s perfect year-round. Whether it’s a chilly winter evening or a sunny spring morning, this bread always feels like the right choice.
It’s also a great way to use up those overripe bananas sitting on your counter. Instead of tossing them, turn them into something delicious and satisfying.
Finally, this bread is versatile. Enjoy it plain, slathered with butter, or even topped with a dollop of whipped cream. It’s also a wonderful option for gifting – who wouldn’t love receiving a homemade loaf?
Ingredients Notes
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient works in harmony to create a moist, flavorful loaf that you’ll be proud to serve.
- Ripe Bananas: The riper, the better! Overripe bananas with brown spots are perfect for this recipe because they’re sweeter and easier to mash. They also contribute to the bread’s moist texture.
- Cinnamon: This warm spice is the star of the show, giving the bread its signature flavor. Be sure to use ground cinnamon for even distribution.
- Flour: All-purpose flour works beautifully here, creating a tender crumb that holds up well to slicing.
- Butter: Melted butter adds richness to the bread. You can also use coconut oil or a neutral oil as a substitute.
- Brown Sugar: Adds depth and a hint of caramel flavor that pairs perfectly with the bananas and cinnamon.
- Eggs: These provide structure and help bind the ingredients together. For a vegan option, you can use flax eggs.
- Baking Soda: Ensures the bread rises properly and has a light, fluffy texture.
No special equipment is required – just a loaf pan and a couple of mixing bowls!
How To Make This Cinnamon Banana Bread
Making this Cinnamon Banana Bread is as simple as mix, pour, and bake! Follow these steps for a perfect loaf every time.
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9x5-inch loaf pan. You can also line the pan with parchment paper for easier removal.
In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth. A fork works great for this step! Stir in the melted butter and brown sugar, mixing until well combined.
Crack in the eggs and whisk until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Add a splash of vanilla extract for extra flavor if you like.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring just until no streaks of flour remain. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the bread dense.
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan, spreading it out evenly. For a finishing touch, sprinkle a little extra cinnamon and sugar on top.
Bake for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Storage Options
Cinnamon Banana Bread stores wonderfully, making it perfect for meal prep or enjoying throughout the week.
To store at room temperature, wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
For longer storage, refrigerate the bread in an airtight container for up to a week. Let it come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.
If you want to freeze it, wrap the bread in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or in the refrigerator before enjoying.
Variations and Substitutions
This recipe is a blank canvas for creativity. Here are some ways to make it your own:
- Add a handful of chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for a crunchy texture.
- Mix in chocolate chips for a sweeter, dessert-like loaf.
- Use half whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and added fiber.
- Swap the cinnamon for pumpkin spice to give it a seasonal twist.
- Try drizzling a simple glaze made with powdered sugar and milk over the top for a bakery-style touch.
No matter how you customize it, this Cinnamon Banana Bread is sure to be a hit. Experiment, have fun, and enjoy the process – happy baking!
PrintCinnamon Banana Bread Recipe
This Cinnamon Banana Bread recipe combines ripe bananas with warm cinnamon for a perfectly moist and flavorful loaf.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (about 8-10 slices) 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
- In another bowl, combine mashed bananas, melted butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until combined. Do not overmix.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- Use overripe bananas for the best flavor and natural sweetness.
- Add chopped walnuts or chocolate chips for variation.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (⅛ loaf)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 150mg
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