Homemade Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread: Irresistibly Moist and Flavorful

I’m Emma, and I have always believed that food is more than just sustenance—it’s a bridge that connects us to cherished moments and memories. One of my fondest memories revolves around my grandmother’s kitchen, where the comforting aroma of homemade cinnamon swirl banana bread would fill the air. This memory inspired me to recreate that experience for others, transforming simple ingredients into something incredibly delightful.

Crafting homemade cinnamon swirl banana bread is a journey of flavors and textures. The combination of ripe bananas, a hint of cinnamon, and a perfectly moist crumb creates a loaf that is both nostalgic and irresistible. As a lover of comforting classics, I find immense joy in baking this bread, knowing it will bring smiles and warmth to those who gather around my table.

At GrandMmaDelights, my mission is to inspire you to embrace the beauty of home cooking. I believe that anyone can create delicious meals from scratch, and this homemade cinnamon swirl banana bread is a perfect example. With each slice, you’ll discover the magic of simple ingredients coming together to create something truly special.

Let’s dive into the details of making this delectable bread, exploring the fundamentals and techniques that ensure a perfect bake every time. Join me on this culinary adventure, as we celebrate the joy of cooking and the wonderful tradition of sharing homemade treats with family and friends.

Homemade Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread

---

• Author: Emma
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes – 1 hour 25 minutes
• Yield: 1 loaf 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with our Homemade Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread recipe. Learn how to create this delicious treat today!

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon (5 ml) baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon (3 ml) ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon (1 ml) salt
• 2/3 cup (135g) granulated sugar (or use packed brown sugar)
• 4 Tablespoons (56g) beef suet, softened to room temperature
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1 and 1/2 cups (345g) mashed bananas (about 4 medium or 3 large ripe bananas)
• 1/3 cup (80g) plain Greek yogurt (or sour cream)
• 1 teaspoon (5 ml) pure vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1 and 1/2 teaspoons (3 ml) ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup (60g) powdered sugar, sifted
• 1 Tablespoon (15ml) fruit juice or milk
• 1/4 teaspoon (1 ml) pure vanilla extract

---

Instructions

1. Position the oven rack to the lower third and preheat it to 350°F (177°C). This ensures the bread’s top doesn’t brown prematurely. Lightly coat a 9×5-inch metal loaf pan with nonstick spray and set aside.
2. Prepare the banana bread mixture: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Set this mixture aside.
3. Using either a handheld or stand mixer with a paddle or whisk attachment, blend the softened beef suet and sugar on high speed until the mixture is smooth and creamy, approximately 3 minutes. With the mixer on medium speed, incorporate the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is well mixed before adding the next. Add in the mashed bananas, Greek yogurt, and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is well combined. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture on low speed, mixing just until the flour is incorporated. Avoid over-mixing. You should have about 3 and 1/2 cups of batter.
4. For the Cinnamon Sugar Swirl: Combine the sugar and cinnamon. Pour half of the banana bread batter into the prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over it. Add the remaining batter on top, spreading carefully as the top layer might stick to the cinnamon sugar. Use a knife to gently swirl the batter down the center of the pan, ensuring not to over-mix the layers.
5. Bake the loaf for 55 to 65 minutes, covering it loosely with aluminum foil halfway through to prevent excessive browning. The bread is ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, with just a few moist crumbs. Since oven temperatures can vary, begin checking at the 55-minute mark and continue every 5 minutes.
6. Once done, take the bread out of the oven and let it cool in the pan on a wire rack for an hour. Then, remove the bread from the pan and let it cool completely on the wire rack.
7. Combine the icing ingredients in a bowl. (I typically use heavy cream for a thicker icing.) Drizzle the icing over the bread before slicing.
8. Store the banana bread covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for a week. Over time, the icing will seep into the bread, making the tops of the slices slightly moist.

Notes

• Ensure the beef suet is brought to room temperature before blending with the sugar for a smooth mixture.
• Use ripe bananas for optimal flavor and texture in the bread.
• Be cautious not to overmix the batter to avoid a dense loaf.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 55-65 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Calories: 250
• Fat: 8g
• Protein: 4g

Keywords: banana bread recipe, moist banana bread, cinnamon swirl, homemade banana bread, easy banana bread, sweet bread recipe

Homemade Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread Basics

Fundamentals

Creating the perfect homemade cinnamon swirl banana bread begins with understanding the role of each ingredient. The all-purpose flour forms the foundation, while baking soda provides the necessary lift for a light and airy texture. A touch of ground cinnamon adds warmth and spice, enhancing the flavor profile.

Granulated sugar balances the sweetness, while beef suet, softened to room temperature, adds richness and moisture, ensuring a tender crumb. The eggs, also at room temperature, contribute structure and stability, while mashed bananas infuse the bread with natural sweetness and moisture.

Preparation/setup

Before you start mixing, position the oven rack to the lower third and preheat it to 350°F (177°C). This setup prevents the bread’s top from browning too quickly. Lightly coat a 9×5-inch metal loaf pan with nonstick spray, ensuring the bread releases easily after baking.

In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. This step ensures even distribution of dry ingredients, preventing lumps in your batter. With the basics prepared, you’re ready to create a delicious loaf of homemade cinnamon swirl banana bread.

Mastering the Technique

Technique

Begin by using a handheld or stand mixer to blend the softened beef suet and sugar on high speed. The goal is a smooth and creamy mixture, achieved in about three minutes. With the mixer on medium speed, incorporate the eggs, adding them one at a time for thorough mixing.

Once the eggs are well combined, add in the mashed bananas, Greek yogurt, and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is well incorporated. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture on low speed, mixing just until the flour is incorporated. Avoid over-mixing to maintain a tender texture.

Tips and Tricks

For a successful cinnamon swirl, combine sugar and cinnamon in a separate bowl. Pour half of the banana bread batter into the prepared loaf pan, then sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over it. Add the remaining batter on top, and use a knife to gently swirl the batter down the center of the pan.

Bake the loaf for 55 to 65 minutes, covering it loosely with aluminum foil halfway through. This prevents excessive browning while ensuring the bread bakes evenly. Start checking for doneness at the 55-minute mark, and use a toothpick to test the center—look for moist crumbs, not wet batter.

Perfecting Your Homemade Banana Bread

Perfecting Results

Achieving the perfect homemade cinnamon swirl banana bread takes practice and attention to detail. Each step, from mixing to baking, contributes to the final outcome. Be mindful of the batter’s consistency and ensure even distribution of the cinnamon swirl for a stunning visual effect.

Once baked, allow the bread to cool in the pan on a wire rack for an hour. This cooling period is crucial for the bread to set and makes it easier to remove from the pan without breaking. Afterward, let it cool completely on the wire rack before adding icing.

Troubleshooting and Variations

If your bread turns out dense or undercooked, double-check the accuracy of your oven temperature. Over-mixing the batter can also lead to a dense texture, so mix just until the flour is incorporated. For a twist on the classic, try adding nuts or chocolate chips to the batter.

Explore variations like the maple cinnamon banana bread for a different flavor profile. Additionally, you can find inspiration from other recipes like the cinnamon swirl apple fritter bread that adds a fruity twist.

Serving and Storing Your Banana Bread

Serving and Presentation

Once the bread has cooled, combine the icing ingredients in a bowl. Drizzle the icing over the bread before slicing to add a sweet finish. The icing not only enhances the flavor but also adds an elegant touch to the presentation, making each slice a delight.

Serve the homemade cinnamon swirl banana bread as a delightful breakfast treat or a comforting dessert. Its moist and flavorful crumb pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea, creating a perfect moment of indulgence.

Pairings and Storage

To maintain the bread’s freshness, store it covered at room temperature for up to two days or in the refrigerator for a week. Over time, the icing will seep into the bread, adding extra moisture to the tops of the slices. For longer storage, consider freezing individual slices for a quick treat anytime.

This homemade cinnamon swirl banana bread pairs well with other comforting baked goods. Explore our delicious homemade banana bread or try the healthy Greek yogurt banana bread muffins with melty chocolate chips for more variety.

Conclusion

Mastering the art of homemade cinnamon swirl banana bread offers a rewarding experience that goes beyond baking. This delightful recipe combines simple ingredients to create a comforting classic that brings joy to any occasion.

From the aromatic blend of cinnamon and bananas to the moist and tender crumb, every element plays a role in achieving perfection. By following the outlined techniques and tips, you can confidently bake a loaf that delights both the eyes and the palate.

Whether you’re sharing it with family or savoring a slice with a warm beverage, this banana bread embodies the essence of home cooking. Explore variations and discover new favorites as you continue your culinary journey with GrandMmaDelights.

FAQs – Homemade Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread