There's nothing quite like the warm, spicy aroma of Cinnamon Banana Bread filling your kitchen on a cozy afternoon. This delightful twist on a classic recipe combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the rich, earthy flavor of cinnamon, creating a loaf that's perfect for breakfast, snacking, or dessert.

I first discovered this recipe while looking for a way to use up an overabundance of bananas. After tweaking my traditional banana bread recipe with a generous dose of cinnamon, it quickly became a household favorite. Now, this moist, flavorful bread is a staple in our home – and I can't wait for it to become one in yours.

Why You'll Love This Cinnamon Banana Bread

Get ready to fall in love with the ultimate comfort food. This Cinnamon Banana Bread isn’t just delicious – it’s a breeze to make and sure to become a staple in your baking rotation.

First, it’s an incredibly easy recipe. With just one bowl and a handful of pantry staples, you’ll have a loaf ready for the oven in no time. No fancy equipment or techniques required!

Second, the combination of flavors is out of this world. The cinnamon adds a cozy warmth that perfectly complements the natural sweetness of the bananas, creating a loaf that tastes like a hug in every bite.

This bread is also super versatile. Enjoy it plain, spread with a bit of butter, or even topped with cream cheese for a decadent treat. It also freezes beautifully, so you can always have a slice ready for when the craving strikes.

Lastly, it’s a great way to use up overripe bananas. Instead of tossing those brown bananas, turn them into something truly special – and waste-free!

Ready to get started? Let’s dive into the ingredients.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this Cinnamon Banana Bread lies in its simple, everyday ingredients. Each one plays a key role in creating the perfect loaf.

Bananas: The star of the show! Overripe bananas are best for this recipe. The more brown spots, the better – they’re sweeter and easier to mash. You’ll need about 3 medium bananas for a moist loaf.
Cinnamon: This warm spice is what sets this banana bread apart. I recommend using a heaping tablespoon for a pronounced cinnamon flavor, but feel free to adjust to your taste.
Flour: Regular all-purpose flour works perfectly. If you’d like a heartier texture, you can substitute half with whole wheat flour.
Butter: Melted unsalted butter adds richness and flavor. You can substitute with coconut oil or a neutral oil if you prefer a dairy-free option.
Sugar: A combination of brown sugar and white sugar creates the perfect balance of sweetness and caramel notes. You can use all brown sugar for a deeper flavor or reduce the sugar slightly for a less sweet loaf.
Eggs: These provide structure and help bind the ingredients. For a vegan option, a flax egg works well here.
Baking Soda and Baking Powder: These leaveners ensure your bread rises beautifully. Double-check their freshness for the best results.
Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla rounds out the flavors and enhances the sweetness of the bananas.

For equipment, all you need is a mixing bowl, a whisk, a loaf pan, and a spatula. Simple and fuss-free!

How To Make This Cinnamon Banana Bread

Making this Cinnamon Banana Bread is as straightforward as it gets. Here’s how to bring it all together:

Preheat and Prepare: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a standard loaf pan. You can also line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Mash the Bananas: In a large mixing bowl, mash your overripe bananas until smooth. A few small lumps are fine – they add texture to the bread.
Mix Wet Ingredients: Add the melted butter, brown sugar, white sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract to the bananas. Whisk until everything is well combined and smooth.
Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Sprinkle in the cinnamon, flour, baking soda, and baking powder. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture with a spatula, being careful not to overmix.
Pour and Bake: Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan, spreading it out evenly. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool and Enjoy: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Let it cool completely (if you can resist!) before slicing and serving.

Storage Options

Storing your Cinnamon Banana Bread is simple. Here’s how to keep it fresh and delicious:

Room Temperature: Store the bread in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. It’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days.
Refrigerator: For longer storage, place the bread in the fridge. It’ll last for up to a week, though the texture may become slightly denser.
Freezer: To freeze, wrap the bread (whole or sliced) in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag. It’ll keep for up to 3 months. Thaw slices at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for a quick snack.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is. Here are some fun ways to switch it up:

Add Nuts: Stir in a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans for a bit of crunch and extra richness.
Chocolate Chips: Mix in a cup of chocolate chips for a decadent twist that’s perfect for dessert.
Cinnamon Swirl: Before baking, swirl in a mixture of cinnamon and brown sugar for an extra layer of flavor.
Healthier Version: Use whole wheat flour, reduce the sugar, and swap butter for Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend to make it suitable for gluten-sensitive friends.

Your New Favorite Baking Recipe

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this Cinnamon Banana Bread is a foolproof recipe you’ll come back to again and again. With its incredible flavor, simple ingredients, and endless variations, it’s the perfect way to transform humble bananas into something truly special. So preheat that oven and get ready to bake up a little slice of heaven!