Introduction
There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm slice of banana bread, especially when infused with a swirl of cinnamon. This Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread is not only a delightful treat for breakfast or an afternoon snack, but it’s also a fantastic way to use up those overly ripe bananas sitting on your countertop. With its rich and moist texture, and a tantalizing marbled cinnamon topping, this gluten-free recipe will have everyone coming back for seconds! Let’s take a deep dive into making this delicious loaf.
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/3 cup melted coconut oil
- 1/2 cup maple syrup or honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 eggs (or flax eggs for a vegan option)
- 1 1/2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour (with xanthan gum)
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts or chocolate chips (optional)
- 1 tablespoon coconut sugar (for topping)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Yield: 1 loaf
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease or line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas and melted coconut oil, mixing until smooth and creamy.
- Add the maple syrup or honey, vanilla extract, and eggs (or flax eggs) to the banana mixture. Stir until everything is well combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. Make sure there are no lumps!
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet banana mixture, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the bread tough.
- If you choose, gently fold in the chopped nuts or chocolate chips for added texture and flavor.
- Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Then sprinkle with half of the coconut sugar to create a sweet cinnamon layer.
- Pour the remaining batter into the pan, topping it off with the rest of the coconut sugar.
- Using a knife or skewer, gently swirl the batter into a marbled pattern for that stunning cinnamon effect.
- Bake in your preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!
- Once baked, let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Notes or Tips
For the best flavor, ensure your bananas are very ripe, with lots of brown spots. They’ll be sweeter and more flavorful. If you’re looking for an extra flavor boost, consider adding a dash of nutmeg or a handful of dried fruits alongside the nuts!
Cooking Techniques
This banana bread relies on simple mixing and baking techniques, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels. The key to a moist bread is handling the batter gently; overmixing can lead to a denser texture. Swirling the cinnamon sugar mixture into the batter not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds glorious bursts of cinnamon flavor throughout the bread.
FAQ
Can I make this banana bread vegan?
Absolutely! Just substitute the regular eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) to keep it plant-based.
How should I store leftover banana bread?
Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze it by wrapping slices tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer bag.
Conclusion
This Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread is a delightful creation that strikes the perfect balance between sweetness and heartiness. It’s the ideal companion for your morning coffee or a cozy evening snack. With simple ingredients and an easy preparation process, you’ll be motivated to whip up this scrumptious loaf again and again. So grab those ripe bananas, and let your kitchen fill with the warm, inviting aromas of baking – pure bliss!