Cinnamon Banana Loaf

Introduction

This Cinnamon Banana Loaf is the perfect way to use up overripe bananas, transforming them into a soft, moist, and warmly spiced treat. With a rich banana flavor and a cozy cinnamon swirl running through the center, this loaf is ideal for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert. It’s simple to make, comforting, and fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma while baking.

Ingredients (Servings: 8–10)

For the loaf:

• 3 medium very ripe bananas, mashed (about 1 1/2 cups)
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon fine salt

For the cinnamon swirl topping:

• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon melted butter

Other:

• Butter or nonstick spray (for greasing the loaf pan)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and place it on a baking sheet.
2. Mash the bananas in a large bowl until mostly smooth with a few small chunks remaining.
3. Mix wet ingredients:
   Add melted butter to the bananas and stir. Mix in granulated sugar and brown sugar until thick and glossy.
4. Add eggs and vanilla:
   Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Combine dry ingredients:
   In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
6. Combine wet and dry:
   Add dry ingredients to the banana mixture in two parts, mixing gently until just combined. Do not overmix.
7. Prepare cinnamon topping:
   In a small bowl, mix sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter until crumbly.
8. Layer the batter:
   • Add half the batter to the pan
   • Sprinkle half the cinnamon topping
   • Add remaining batter
   • Sprinkle remaining topping
9. Create swirl:
   Use a knife to gently swirl the batter (2–3 passes).
10. Bake:
    Bake for 55–65 minutes until golden and a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.
11. Cool:
    Let the loaf cool in the pan for 15–20 minutes, then remove and cool further before slicing.

Conclusion

This Cinnamon Banana Loaf is a cozy, homemade classic that combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the warmth of cinnamon. Whether enjoyed warm with a cup of tea or sliced for a quick snack, it’s a comforting treat that’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Simple, rustic, and full of flavor—this loaf is baking at its best.