Banana Bread with Cinnamon Sugar Topping Recipe
Highlighted under: Cozy Food
Delight in the warmth and comfort of homemade banana bread, perfectly topped with a sweet cinnamon sugar blend. This Banana Bread with Cinnamon Sugar Topping Recipe is a classic treat that satisfies any sweet craving.
This banana bread brings back memories of cozy afternoons spent in the kitchen. The aroma of ripe bananas baking in the oven, combined with the sweet scent of cinnamon, creates an irresistible ambiance. Whether enjoyed for breakfast or as a snack, this recipe will surely become a family favorite!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Moist and fluffy texture that melts in your mouth
- Cinnamon sugar topping adds a delightful crunch
- Easy to make with simple ingredients
The Joy of Baking Banana Bread
Baking banana bread is not just about enjoying a delicious treat; it's also about the experience. The process fills your kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma that can brighten anyone's day. Whether you're a seasoned baker or trying your hand for the first time, this recipe is straightforward and forgiving, making it an ideal choice for all skill levels.
Using ripe bananas is key to achieving the best flavor and texture in your banana bread. These overripe gems are naturally sweeter and provide the moisture needed for a tender loaf. Don't be afraid to use bananas that are well beyond their prime; they will transform into a scrumptious delight once baked.
Perfect Pairings
Banana bread is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. For breakfast, consider serving slices warm with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey. It also pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea, making it an ideal afternoon snack.
If you want to elevate your banana bread experience, try adding nuts or chocolate chips to the batter. Walnuts or pecans add a delightful crunch, while chocolate chips can satisfy any sweet tooth. Feel free to get creative and customize the recipe to suit your taste preferences.
Storing and Freezing
Proper storage is essential to keep your banana bread fresh and delicious. Once cooled, wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It can be stored at room temperature for up to three days or in the refrigerator for about a week, although the latter may slightly alter the texture.
For longer storage, consider freezing your banana bread. Slice the loaf and wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. This method allows you to enjoy a slice whenever the craving strikes, simply thawing it at room temperature or warming it in the microwave.
Ingredients
For the Banana Bread
- 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 cup all-purpose flour
For the Cinnamon Sugar Topping
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.
Mix Wet Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter with the mashed bananas. Stir in the baking soda and salt.
Add Sugar and Egg
Mix in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Incorporate Flour
Gently fold in the flour until just combined. Do not overmix.
Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Topping
In a small bowl, mix together the sugar and cinnamon.
Transfer to Loaf Pan
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and sprinkle the cinnamon sugar topping evenly over the top.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool and Serve
Let the banana bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Pro Tips
- For best results, use very ripe bananas for maximum sweetness and moisture.
Tips for the Best Banana Bread
To ensure your banana bread turns out perfectly every time, use a kitchen scale for measuring your ingredients. This can help eliminate discrepancies that often arise from using cups, especially when measuring flour. Accurate measurements can make a significant difference in the final product.
Another tip is to avoid overmixing the batter. Gently fold in the flour until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a denser loaf, while gentle mixing allows the bread to rise beautifully and maintain a light texture.
Healthier Variations
If you're looking to make a healthier version of this banana bread, consider substituting some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. This adds fiber and nutrients while still keeping the bread moist and flavorful. You can also reduce the sugar by half and add natural sweeteners like maple syrup or honey.
For a dairy-free option, substitute the butter with coconut oil or applesauce. These alternatives will maintain the moisture while catering to those with dietary restrictions. Experimenting with these substitutions allows you to enjoy banana bread while aligning it with your health goals.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen bananas?
Yes, thaw the frozen bananas and drain any excess liquid before mashing.
→ How do I store leftover banana bread?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
→ Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?
Absolutely! Feel free to add nuts or chocolate chips for extra flavor and texture.
→ Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Yes, you can freeze banana bread. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
Banana Bread with Cinnamon Sugar Topping Recipe
Delight in the warmth and comfort of homemade banana bread, perfectly topped with a sweet cinnamon sugar blend. This Banana Bread with Cinnamon Sugar Topping Recipe is a classic treat that satisfies any sweet craving.
What You'll Need
For the Banana Bread
- 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 cup all-purpose flour
For the Cinnamon Sugar Topping
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.
In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter with the mashed bananas. Stir in the baking soda and salt.
Mix in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Gently fold in the flour until just combined. Do not overmix.
In a small bowl, mix together the sugar and cinnamon.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and sprinkle the cinnamon sugar topping evenly over the top.
Bake in the preheated oven for 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the banana bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Extra Tips
- For best results, use very ripe bananas for maximum sweetness and moisture.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
- Sodium: 125mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 15g
- Protein: 2g