Cinnamon Banana Bread Recipe

There's nothing quite like the smell of freshly baked Cinnamon Banana Bread filling your home. The warm, inviting aroma of cinnamon, paired with the sweet hint of ripe bananas, is a comforting treat that feels like a hug in loaf form. This recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for any time of the day—whether it's a cozy breakfast, a mid-morning snack, or an indulgent dessert.

this Recipe

I first discovered this recipe while looking for ways to use up overripe bananas that were too good to waste. What started as a simple solution has become a family staple, and I'm excited to share it with you. Let’s dive into why this recipe will quickly become your favorite too.

Why You'll Love This Cinnamon Banana Bread

Get ready to fall in love with your new go-to banana bread recipe. This Cinnamon Banana Bread is more than just delicious—it's an easy, one-bowl wonder that’s sure to impress.

First, it's incredibly simple to make. With just a handful of pantry staples and about 10 minutes of prep time, you'll have your bread in the oven in no time. It's perfect for those days when you're craving something homemade but don't want to spend hours in the kitchen.

The flavors are perfectly balanced. The natural sweetness of ripe bananas is enhanced by a generous swirl of cinnamon, giving each bite a warm, slightly spiced kick. It's like a hug for your taste buds!

This recipe is also versatile. Whether you want to add nuts, chocolate chips, or keep it classic, it adapts beautifully to your preferences. Plus, it’s freezer-friendly, so you can enjoy a slice whenever the craving strikes.

And let's not forget about its texture—moist, tender, and with just the right amount of crumb. Serve it warm with a pat of butter or enjoy it plain; either way, you’re in for a treat.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this Cinnamon Banana Bread lies in its simple yet effective ingredients. Each component works together to create the perfect loaf.

Bananas are the star of the show. Make sure to use overripe bananas with plenty of brown spots for maximum sweetness and flavor. The natural sugars in the bananas not only add sweetness but also keep the bread moist.

Cinnamon is the magic ingredient that elevates this recipe. Its warm, earthy flavor pairs beautifully with the bananas, adding depth to every bite. Don't skimp here—a generous amount is key!

Flour forms the base of the bread. I recommend all-purpose flour for a soft, tender crumb. If you'd like to make it healthier, you can substitute half with whole wheat flour, but the texture will be slightly denser.

Sugar adds sweetness, and I love using a combination of white and brown sugar. The brown sugar adds a hint of caramel-like richness that takes this bread to the next level.

Butter or Oil adds moisture and richness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use applesauce instead, but the bread will have a slightly different texture.

You’ll also need baking soda for leavening, a pinch of salt to balance the flavors, and vanilla extract for an extra layer of aroma. No special equipment is needed—just a mixing bowl, a loaf pan, and an oven!

How To Make This Cinnamon Banana Bread

Creating this Cinnamon Banana Bread is a straightforward and satisfying process. Let me walk you through the steps to ensure your loaf turns out perfectly every time.

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a standard loaf pan. This ensures your bread will bake evenly and release easily from the pan.

In a large mixing bowl, mash your ripe bananas with a fork until smooth. The bananas should look like a thick puree with no large chunks remaining. Stir in melted butter (or oil), brown sugar, and white sugar until well combined.

Next, add the vanilla extract and a beaten egg to the mixture. The egg acts as a binder, helping to hold the bread together while keeping it light and fluffy.

In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and a generous amount of cinnamon. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine and ensure the bread stays tender.

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. For an extra touch of cinnamon, sprinkle a mixture of sugar and cinnamon over the batter before baking. This creates a sweet, slightly crunchy topping.

Bake the bread for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Storage Options

This Cinnamon Banana Bread stores beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or enjoying throughout the week.

To store at room temperature, wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days.

For longer storage, freeze individual slices by wrapping them in plastic wrap and placing them in a zip-top freezer bag. This method allows you to grab a single serving whenever you want. Frozen slices will keep for up to 3 months.

To reheat, simply microwave a slice for 20-30 seconds or toast it lightly for a warm, fresh-from-the-oven taste.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility. Here are a few ways you can switch it up:

• Add a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans for a nutty crunch.
• Stir in chocolate chips for a dessert-like twist that kids will love.
• Replace half the flour with oat flour for a heartier, fiber-packed loaf.
• Use coconut sugar or maple syrup instead of white sugar for a natural sweetener option.
• For a tropical vibe, add shredded coconut or diced pineapple to the batter.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with your favorite flavors. This bread is forgiving and easily adaptable to your tastes.

No matter how you make it, this Cinnamon Banana Bread is guaranteed to become a regular in your recipe rotation. So grab those overripe bananas and start baking—you won't regret it!

Print