There’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through your home, especially when it’s a delicious treat like Banana Nut Cinnamon Swirl Bread. This delightful recipe combines the sweetness of ripe bananas, the warmth of cinnamon, and the crunch of nuts into a delightful loaf that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Let’s get baking!
**Banana Nut Cinnamon Swirl Bread**
**Ingredients:**
– 2 ripe bananas, mashed
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, melted butter, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
4. In a small bowl, mix together the chopped nuts, brown sugar, and cinnamon to create the cinnamon swirl mixture.
5. Pour half of the banana bread batter into the prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon swirl mixture over the batter. Repeat with the remaining batter and cinnamon swirl mixture.
6. Use a knife to gently swirl the cinnamon mixture into the batter, creating a marbled effect.
7. Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then remove it from the pan and transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Delicious when served warm with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey, this Banana Nut Cinnamon Swirl Bread is a wonderful treat to enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea. Feel free to customize the recipe by adding chocolate chips, dried fruit, or a sprinkle of oats to the batter for a unique twist. This bread also makes a lovely gift for friends and family – simply wrap it in parchment paper and tie it with a ribbon for a thoughtful homemade present. Enjoy the process of baking this delightful bread and savor every bite of its cozy, comforting flavors. Happy baking!
