Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread has become my go-to weekend baking project, blending the comforting flavors of my childhood into one incredible loaf. I remember my mom making banana bread every week, and when I discovered how to add a sweet cinnamon swirl, it was a game-changer! This recipe, which is essentially a banana bread with cinnamon swirl, fills my kitchen with the most amazing aroma of ripe bananas and warm spices. It’s truly an easy cinnamon swirl banana bread recipe that I know you’ll adore. Let’s get baking!
Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread
This recipe is a winner for so many reasons! Here’s why you’ll adore this moist cinnamon roll banana bread:
- Incredible Flavor: It perfectly marries the sweet, comforting taste of banana bread with the warm, spiced goodness of cinnamon rolls.
- Quick Prep Time: You can whip up the batter and swirl in just about 15 minutes, making it ideal for busy mornings.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses common pantry staples and overripe bananas, making it an economical treat.
- Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike will adore this fun twist on a classic.
- Moist & Tender: You’ll get a perfectly moist cinnamon roll banana bread every time, thanks to the combination of bananas and Greek yogurt.
- Versatile Treat: Great for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack.
- Easy to Make: Even if you’re new to baking, this recipe is straightforward and forgiving.
Ingredients for Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread
Gather these simple ingredients to create your delicious banana bread cinnamon sugar swirl loaf. The magic happens with ripe bananas and a simple cinnamon-sugar mixture!
- 2 cups All-Purpose Flour – the base for our tender loaf
- 1 teaspoon Baking Soda – helps the bread rise
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt – balances the sweetness
- 1/2 cup Butter (melted) – adds richness and moisture
- 1/2 cup Brown Sugar – for that classic caramel-like sweetness
- 2 large Eggs – bind everything together
- 3 medium Ripe Bananas (mashed) – the star flavor, use very ripe ones for best results!
- 1/4 cup Milk – adds extra moisture
- 1/2 cup Greek Yogurt – keeps the bread incredibly moist and tender
- For the Cinnamon Swirl:
- 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar – combined with cinnamon for the swirl
- 1 tablespoon Ground Cinnamon – the essential spice for that cinnamon roll flavor
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread
Get ready to fill your kitchen with the most amazing aroma! This recipe for how to make cinnamon roll banana bread is surprisingly simple and yields a beautiful, swirled loaf. Follow these easy steps for a breakfast treat you’ll want to make again and again.
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously grease a standard 9×5 inch loaf pan. This ensures your beautiful loaf won’t stick.
- Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together the 2 cups All-Purpose Flour, 1 teaspoon Baking Soda, and 1/2 teaspoon Salt. This dry mixture is the foundation of our bread’s structure.
- Step 3: In a separate large bowl, cream together the 1/2 cup Butter (melted) and 1/2 cup Brown Sugar until they form a smooth, cohesive mixture.
- Step 4: Beat in the 2 large Eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Step 5: Gently mix in the 3 medium Ripe Bananas (mashed), 1/4 cup Milk, and 1/2 cup Greek Yogurt until just combined. Don’t overmix at this stage; we want a tender crumb.
- Step 6: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients. Mix only until no dry streaks of flour remain. Overmixing can lead to a tough loaf, so be gentle!
- Step 7: Prepare your cinnamon swirl. In a small bowl, combine the 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar and 1 tablespoon Ground Cinnamon. This will create that irresistible cinnamon sugar ribbon throughout.
- Step 8: Pour about half of the banana batter into your prepared loaf pan. Evenly sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar mixture over the top of this layer.
- Step 9: Spoon the remaining banana batter over the cinnamon sugar layer, then sprinkle the rest of the cinnamon sugar mixture on top.
- Step 10: Grab a butter knife or a skewer and gently swirl the cinnamon sugar into the batter. This is a key step in how to make cinnamon roll banana bread – aim for a marbled effect, not a uniform mix.
- Step 11: Bake for 50 to 60 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, and the top is golden brown. The aroma will be incredible!
- Step 12: Let the loaf cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. This prevents it from getting soggy. Enjoy your delicious banana bread cinnamon roll recipe!
Pro Tips for the Best Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread
Want to elevate your loaf from great to absolutely perfect? I’ve picked up a few tricks that really make this homemade cinnamon roll banana bread shine. Follow these tips for a truly exceptional bake!
- Use the ripest bananas you can find – the browner, the better! They provide sweetness and moisture.
- Don’t overmix the batter once the dry ingredients are added. This is crucial for a tender crumb.
- For an even more intense cinnamon flavor, consider adding a touch of nutmeg or allspice to your cinnamon swirl mixture.
- Letting the bread cool completely before slicing helps it set, making for cleaner cuts and a better texture.
What’s the secret to perfect cinnamon swirl banana bread?
The secret to a perfect cinnamon swirl banana bread is all about the ratio of cinnamon to sugar in the swirl and how you layer it. This technique ensures you get that beautiful marbled effect and a burst of cinnamon in every bite, making it the best cinnamon banana bread recipe. For more baking inspiration, check out these dessert recipes.
Can I make cinnamon roll banana bread ahead of time?
Yes, you absolutely can! You can prepare the batter and the swirl mixture the night before and store them separately in the refrigerator. Assemble and bake in the morning. This makes your homemade cinnamon roll banana bread even easier for busy mornings!
How do I avoid common mistakes with swirled cinnamon banana bread?
The biggest pitfall is overmixing, which leads to a dense loaf. Another common mistake is not swirling enough, resulting in just a plain banana bread. Make sure to swirl gently but thoroughly to distribute the cinnamon sugar.
Best Ways to Serve Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread
This delightful cinnamon roll banana bread is fantastic on its own, but I love serving it in a few special ways. For a truly decadent treat, consider a simple banana bread with cinnamon glaze. Just whisk together powdered sugar, a splash of milk, and a pinch of cinnamon until smooth, then drizzle over the cooled loaf. It’s also wonderful warm with a dollop of cream cheese frosting or a smear of butter. For a complete brunch spread, pair a slice with fresh fruit salad and a hot cup of coffee! You might also enjoy these breakfast bowl recipes with eggs.
Nutrition Facts for Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread
Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information per slice for this delicious cinnamon roll banana bread. It’s a satisfying treat that offers a good balance of flavors and nutrients.
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Sugar: 15 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Sodium: 180 mg
- Cholesterol: 40 mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used. For more information on dietary guidelines, consult resources like the MyPlate website.
How to Store and Reheat Homemade Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread
Once your delicious loaf of Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread has cooled completely, proper storage is key to keeping it fresh and flavorful. I’ve found that wrapping it tightly is the best approach for preserving that wonderful homemade quality.
For short-term storage, wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in an airtight container or a zip-top bag. This will keep your homemade cinnamon roll banana bread fresh at room temperature for about 3-4 days. If you need to store it for longer, the freezer is your best friend. Wrap the cooled loaf securely in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil or a freezer-safe bag. It can stay frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy a slice, you can thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or gently reheat it. For reheating, you can warm individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or place them in a toaster oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes until warmed through. For other baking ideas, consider these mini citrus cloud bites.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread
What makes this cinnamon roll banana bread recipe so special?
This recipe takes the comforting classic banana bread and infuses it with the irresistible flavors of a cinnamon roll. The combination of moist banana bread with a gooey cinnamon-sugar swirl creates a unique and delicious treat. It’s a standout in any banana bread cinnamon roll recipe collection!
Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to my cinnamon roll banana bread?
Absolutely! Chopped pecans or walnuts are a fantastic addition to the cinnamon swirl for a little crunch, like in a cinnamon pecan banana bread swirl. You can also fold in about 1/2 cup of chocolate chips into the batter before swirling for an extra layer of decadence. If you’re looking for more unique flavor combinations, try these cranberry feta pinwheels with cream cheese.
How do I get a good swirl in my banana bread?
The key to a beautiful swirl is to sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over each layer of batter, then use a knife or skewer to gently marble it through. Don’t overmix; a few gentle passes are all you need to create those lovely ribbons in your banana bread with cinnamon swirl.
Is this a quick cinnamon banana bread loaf?
Yes, this recipe is quite quick! The prep time is only about 15 minutes, making it a perfect option for a quick cinnamon banana bread loaf. The baking time is around an hour, but the active prep is minimal, allowing you to enjoy a delicious homemade treat without a huge time commitment. For other quick breakfast options, explore our homepage.
Variations of Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread You Can Try
Once you’ve mastered the classic, there are so many fun ways to customize this delicious loaf! Here are a few ideas to inspire your next bake of this banana bread cinnamon roll recipe:
- Cinnamon Pecan Banana Bread Swirl: For an added crunch and nutty flavor, stir 1/2 cup of chopped pecans into the cinnamon-sugar swirl mixture. This creates a wonderful cinnamon pecan banana bread swirl that’s absolutely divine.
- Gluten-Free Version: Swap the all-purpose flour for a good quality gluten-free baking blend. You might need to adjust the liquid slightly – start with the milk and add a touch more if the batter seems too thick.
- Mini Loaves or Muffins: Pour the batter into muffin tins or mini loaf pans. Reduce the baking time accordingly – muffins usually take 20-25 minutes, and mini loaves around 30-35 minutes. Keep an eye on them!
- Cream Cheese Swirl: For an extra decadent twist, mix 4 oz of softened cream cheese with 1/4 cup powdered sugar and 1/2 tsp vanilla until smooth. Dollop this over the first layer of batter before adding the cinnamon swirl.
Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread: 1 Amazing Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 slices 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Create a cozy brunch treat with this Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread recipe, blending classic banana bread with the sweet, spiced flavor of cinnamon rolls. It’s a moist, flavorful loaf perfect for sharing, with an easy preparation suitable for all skill levels.
Ingredients
- For the Batter:
- 2 cups All-Purpose Flour
- 1 teaspoon Baking Soda
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt
- 1/2 cup Butter (melted)
- 1/2 cup Brown Sugar
- 2 large Eggs
- 3 medium Ripe Bananas (mashed)
- 1/4 cup Milk
- 1/2 cup Greek Yogurt
- For the Cinnamon Swirl:
- 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar
- 1 tablespoon Ground Cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- In a large bowl, cream the melted butter and brown sugar until smooth.
- Beat in the eggs until fully incorporated, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Mix in the mashed bananas, milk, and Greek yogurt until just combined.
- Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined. Do not overmix.
- In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon for the swirl.
- Pour half of the banana batter into the prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar mixture over the batter.
- Add the remaining banana batter on top, then sprinkle with the remaining cinnamon sugar mixture.
- Gently swirl the cinnamon sugar into the batter with a knife to create a marbled effect.
- Bake for 50-60 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.
Notes
- For best results, use overripe bananas with many brown spots.
- Avoid overmixing the batter to ensure a tender crumb.
- Check for doneness starting at 50 minutes.
- Optional: Drizzle with a simple glaze after cooling.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Sugar: 15 g
- Sodium: 180 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 40 mg