Introduction
If you’re looking to brighten your day with something sweet, this Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread is the perfect solution! It combines the classic flavors of freshly baked banana bread with a delightful swirl of cinnamon and sugar, reminiscent of a cozy, Sunday morning. Each slice offers a tender, fluffy texture and a fragrant burst of cinnamon that’s simply irresistible. Whether you enjoy it warm with a bit of butter or as a stand-alone treat, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home.
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon milk
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 1 loaf
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas and melted butter until well blended.
- Add the baking soda and a pinch of salt to the banana mixture, stirring until fully incorporated.
- Mix in the sugar, followed by the beaten egg and vanilla extract, ensuring everything is well combined.
- Gradually fold in the all-purpose flour until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the cinnamon and brown sugar until evenly distributed.
- Pour half of the banana batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing it out gently.
- Evenly spread half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the first layer of banana batter.
- Add the remaining banana batter on top, followed by the rest of the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
- Using a knife, swirl the batter gently to create a marbled effect.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- While the bread is baking, beat together the softened cream cheese and milk until smooth and creamy.
- Once baked, allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.
- Once cooled, drizzle the cream cheese mixture over the banana bread before slicing and serving.
Notes or Tips
- Make sure your bananas are very ripe for the best flavor and natural sweetness.
- For a little extra texture, consider adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the batter.
- This bread can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days, or it can be frozen for later enjoyment.
Cooking Techniques
The key to achieving that perfect banana bread texture lies in mixing. Be sure to mix the wet ingredients and dry ingredients separately for a smoother batter. Also, swirling the cinnamon and sugar mixture throughout the bread gives it those beautiful, flavorful layers. Patience is key during baking — resist the urge to open the oven too soon to keep it fluffy and moist.
FAQ
- Can I use frozen bananas? Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before mashing.
- How can I tell when the banana bread is done baking? Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, it’s ready!
- Can I make this bread without eggs? Yes! You can substitute one egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce for a vegan option.
Conclusion
Now that you have all the steps in hand, get ready to fill your kitchen with the warm, inviting aroma of cinnamon and baked bananas! This Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread is not just a treat; it’s a cozy experience that will surely bring joy to friends and family alike. Enjoy every scrumptious slice with a cup of your favorite coffee or tea, and cherish those moments of comfort and delight!