There's nothing quite like the sweet aroma of Cinnamon Banana Bread wafting through the kitchen, instantly making your house feel cozier. This classic treat combines moist, tender banana bread with the warm spice of cinnamon for a flavor that feels like a hug in every bite.

I first discovered this recipe on a chilly afternoon when I had a few overripe bananas begging to be used. Little did I know, that spontaneous bake would become a family favorite, perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. Let’s dive into why this recipe deserves a spot in your rotation!

Why You'll Love This Cinnamon Banana Bread

Get ready to meet your new favorite banana bread recipe! This Cinnamon Banana Bread is packed with flavor, incredibly easy to make, and endlessly versatile.

First, it’s all about the texture. This bread is moist and tender, thanks to the mashed bananas, with a delightful cinnamon swirl running through every slice. It’s the perfect balance of fluffy and dense, making it satisfying without being too heavy.

Not only is it delicious, but it’s also a beginner-friendly recipe. Even if you’re new to baking, you’ll find the steps straightforward and the ingredients easy to work with. Plus, no fancy equipment is required—just a bowl, a whisk, and a loaf pan.

This recipe is also great for using up pantry staples. Those overripe bananas you thought were destined for the trash? They’re the star of the show here, transforming into something magical with just a few basic ingredients.

Finally, the versatility is unmatched. Add a handful of chopped nuts for crunch, mix in chocolate chips for indulgence, or even top it with a drizzle of glaze for a dessert-worthy finish.

Once you try this recipe, you’ll find yourself reaching for it time and time again. Let’s look at what you’ll need to make it!

Ingredients Notes

The magic of Cinnamon Banana Bread lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients that work together to create layers of flavor and texture.

Bananas: Overripe bananas are essential for this recipe. The spottier and browner they are, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be. Mash them well for a smooth batter or leave them slightly chunky for bits of banana in every bite.
Cinnamon: This is the secret ingredient that sets this banana bread apart. Ground cinnamon adds warmth and depth, perfectly complementing the natural sweetness of the bananas.
Flour: Use all-purpose flour for a classic texture. If you’re looking for a healthier twist, you can substitute half the flour with whole wheat flour, though the bread may be slightly denser.
Sugar: A combination of granulated sugar and brown sugar works best here. The brown sugar adds a hint of molasses that pairs beautifully with the cinnamon.
Butter or Oil: Melted butter gives the bread a rich, buttery flavor, while vegetable oil keeps it incredibly moist. Choose based on your preference or what you have on hand.
Eggs: Eggs act as the binder, holding everything together while adding a bit of lift for that perfect crumb.

If you have a loaf pan and a mixing bowl, you’re ready to go!

How To Make This Cinnamon Banana Bread

Making Cinnamon Banana Bread is as satisfying as eating it. Follow these simple steps to bring this treat to life.

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9x5-inch loaf pan with butter or nonstick spray. You can also line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

In a large mixing bowl, mash your bananas until smooth. Stir in the melted butter (or oil), followed by the sugar and eggs, mixing until well combined.

Next, sift together your dry ingredients—flour, baking soda, salt, and a generous amount of cinnamon—in a separate bowl. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to dense bread, so be gentle!

For an extra cinnamon swirl, mix a little sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. Pour half the batter into the loaf pan, sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture on top, then pour the remaining batter over it. Use a knife to swirl the layers together gently.

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

Enjoy your bread warm with a pat of butter, or let it cool for a firmer slice—both options are irresistible.

Storage Options

This Cinnamon Banana Bread stores beautifully, making it ideal for meal prep or gifting.

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

If you want to freeze your bread, let it cool completely, then wrap it in plastic wrap followed by a layer of foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or on the counter before serving.

Reheating is a breeze—simply warm slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or toast them for a slightly crispy edge.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is as flexible as it is delicious, making it easy to adapt to your preferences.

Add ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a nutty crunch.
Swap out the cinnamon for a pumpkin spice blend to create a fall-inspired version.
Mix in ½ cup of chocolate chips for a sweet surprise in every bite.
For a healthier twist, use coconut oil instead of butter and replace half the sugar with maple syrup.
Feeling indulgent? Drizzle the cooled loaf with a cream cheese glaze or a simple powdered sugar icing.

Don’t be afraid to get creative and make this recipe your own. Once you start experimenting, the possibilities are endless.

Whether you enjoy it as a breakfast treat, an afternoon snack, or a cozy dessert, Cinnamon Banana Bread is sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen.