If you’re looking for a cozy treat that fills your kitchen with the warm aroma of cinnamon, then this Cinnamon Banana Bread is for you! There’s something so comforting about banana bread, especially when it’s laced with that lovely spice. This recipe has quickly become a favorite in my home, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Whether it’s for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a sweet dessert, you can’t go wrong with a slice of this delightful loaf.

What truly makes this Cinnamon Banana Bread special is how easy it is to whip up. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll have a deliciously moist bread that everyone will love. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use those overripe bananas sitting on your counter!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to prepare: In just 15 minutes, you can have your batter ready to bake!
Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this tasty treat.
Make-ahead friendly: Bake it in advance and enjoy it throughout the week.
Delicious flavor: The combination of cinnamon and banana creates a mouthwatering taste that’s hard to resist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Each one plays a key role in creating that perfect loaf of Cinnamon Banana Bread!

3 ripe bananas, mashed
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg, beaten
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1½ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
¼ cup brown sugar (for topping)

Variations

One of the best things about this Cinnamon Banana Bread is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative and make it your own with these fun variations:

Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
Incorporate chocolate: Fold in some chocolate chips for a sweet twist.
Make it healthier: Substitute half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour.
Mix in fruits: Add blueberries or shredded carrots for additional flavor and nutrition.

How to Make Cinnamon Banana Bread

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your bread bakes evenly and rises perfectly. Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan so the bread doesn’t stick once it’s done baking.

Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the mashed bananas, melted butter, granulated sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract until smooth. Mixing these wet ingredients together first helps create that lovely moist texture we all adore in banana bread.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. This step is important because it evenly distributes the baking soda and cinnamon throughout the batter so every bite is full of flavor.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix! Overmixing can make your banana bread dense instead of light and fluffy.

Step 5: Prepare for Baking

Pour the batter into your greased loaf pan and sprinkle the top with brown sugar. This little touch adds a delightful caramelized crust as it bakes!

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 55–60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The smell wafting through your kitchen will be irresistible!

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, slice up your delicious Cinnamon Banana Bread and serve! Enjoy every bite with family or friends—it’s sure to be a hit!

Pro Tips for Making Cinnamon Banana Bread

Baking the perfect Cinnamon Banana Bread is all about the details! Here are some tips to ensure your loaf turns out moist and flavorful every time.

Use overripe bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be. Look for bananas with lots of brown spots for optimal sweetness.
Don’t overmix the batter: Gently folding the dry ingredients into the wet mixture helps keep your banana bread tender. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf, so mix until just combined.
Add nuts or chocolate chips: For an extra layer of flavor and texture, consider folding in some chopped walnuts or semi-sweet chocolate chips. They complement the cinnamon beautifully!
Check for doneness carefully: Ovens can vary in temperature, so use a toothpick to check if your bread is done baking. It should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached when inserted into the center.
Cool before slicing: Allowing your banana bread to cool completely on a wire rack ensures that it slices neatly. If you’re too eager, it may crumble!

How to Serve Cinnamon Banana Bread

Serving your warm Cinnamon Banana Bread can elevate it from simply delicious to a delightful experience! Here are some ideas on how to present this yummy treat.

Garnishes

Butter or nut butter: A light spread of butter or almond butter adds richness and enhances the flavor of each slice.
Fresh fruit: Slices of fresh strawberries or a handful of blueberries on the side provide a refreshing contrast to the warm spices in the bread.
Cinnamon sprinkle: A light dusting of cinnamon sugar on top just before serving adds an extra touch of sweetness and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

Greek yogurt with honey: This creamy side pairs wonderfully with banana bread. The tartness of yogurt complements the sweetness of the bread, creating a balanced bite.
Fruit salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits can brighten up your plate and add freshness alongside your warm slices.
Coffee or tea: Enjoying a cup of hot coffee or tea makes for a cozy pairing that perfectly complements the comforting flavors of cinnamon banana bread.
Oatmeal: A small bowl of oatmeal topped with nuts and fruits can make for a wholesome breakfast spread when served alongside banana bread.

Now that you have all these tips and serving suggestions, you’re ready to impress your family and friends with your delicious Cinnamon Banana Bread! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

Cinnamon Banana Bread is not only a delightful treat but also perfect for meal prep. You can easily make it ahead of time, store it properly, and enjoy it throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

Allow the banana bread to cool completely before storing.
Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh.
Store at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

Slice the banana bread into individual pieces for easy thawing.
Wrap each slice in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, simply thaw at room temperature or heat in the microwave.

Reheating

To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Place slices on a baking sheet and warm for about 10 minutes.
Alternatively, microwave slices for 15-20 seconds until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making Cinnamon Banana Bread:

Can I use frozen bananas for Cinnamon Banana Bread?

Yes, frozen bananas work great! Just thaw them first and drain any excess liquid before mashing.

How can I make my Cinnamon Banana Bread healthier?

You can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour and reduce the sugar slightly. Adding nuts or oats can increase nutritional value too!

What should I do if my Cinnamon Banana Bread is too dry?

If your bread turns out dry, check that you’re not overbaking it. You can also add a bit more mashed banana or yogurt next time for added moisture.

Can I add other spices to my Cinnamon Banana Bread?

Absolutely! Nutmeg or pumpkin spice can add an extra layer of flavor. Just be sure not to overpower the cinnamon!

How long does Cinnamon Banana Bread last?

When stored properly, it can last up to a week in the refrigerator and several months if frozen.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this delicious Cinnamon Banana Bread! It’s a wonderful way to use overripe bananas while filling your kitchen with warm, inviting aromas. Whether enjoyed as breakfast, a snack, or dessert, this bread is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy baking and savor every bite!

Cinnamon Banana Bread

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Author: Madison
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: Makes approximately 12 servings 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

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Description

Indulge in the warm, comforting flavors of this Cinnamon Banana Bread, a delightful treat that’s perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. This recipe transforms overripe bananas into a moist, flavorful loaf infused with aromatic cinnamon. Ideal for busy families and gatherings, this easy-to-make bread will fill your kitchen with its irresistible aroma. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can enjoy a slice of homemade goodness that everyone will love!

Ingredients

Scale

3 ripe bananas, mashed
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg, beaten
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1½ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
¼ cup brown sugar (for topping)

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
In a large bowl, mix the mashed bananas, melted butter, sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla until smooth.
In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and top with brown sugar.
Bake for 55–60 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.