Name: Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread with Vanilla Icing Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 3 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled); 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 2/3 cup (135g) granulated sugar (or use packed brown sugar); 4 tablespoons (56g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature; 2 large eggs, at room temperature; 1 and 1/2 cups (345g) mashed bananas (about 4 medium or 3 large ripe bananas); 1/3 cup (80g) plain Greek yogurt (or sour cream); 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar; 1 and 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon; 1/2 cup (60g) confectioners’ sugar, sifted; 1 tablespoon (15ml) heavy cream or milk; 1/4 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Jump to Recipe· 3.8 from 3 reviews

There is nothing quite like the comforting warmth and rich aroma of homemade banana bread, and this Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread with Vanilla Icing Recipe takes that beloved classic to an entirely new level of deliciousness. Imagine tender, moist banana bread swirled with a perfect layer of cinnamon sugar that creates a delightful contrast in every bite, finished off with a luscious drizzle of smooth vanilla icing that melts on your tongue. This recipe is a true showstopper, ideal for breakfast, dessert, or an anytime treat that’s sure to impress friends and family alike.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass mixing bowl filled with light beige, thick, and slightly lumpy batter sits on a white marbled texture. A red silicone spatula with a wooden handle is partially dipped into the batter on the right side of the bowl. The bowl has a wide rim and a spout on the left side. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread with Vanilla Icing Recipe relies on simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that combine to bring out incredible flavors and textures. Each component is carefully chosen to balance moistness, sweetness, and that signature cinnamon kick.

All-purpose flour (2 cups): Provides the structure and crumb for a tender banana bread.
Baking soda (1 teaspoon): Helps the bread rise to perfection and become delightfully fluffy.
Ground cinnamon (1/2 teaspoon + 1 and 1/2 teaspoons for swirl): Adds warm, spicy notes throughout the bread and in the swirl.
Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Enhances the sweetness and balances flavors perfectly.
Granulated sugar (2/3 cup) or brown sugar: Sweetens the bread while contributing a subtle depth from brown sugar.
Unsalted butter (4 tablespoons, softened): Gives richness and tender crumb texture.
Large eggs (2): Bind ingredients and add moisture and structure.
Mashed bananas (1 and 1/2 cups): Bring natural sweetness, moisture, and that unmistakable banana flavor.
Plain Greek yogurt (1/3 cup): Keeps the bread super moist with a slight tang that balances sweetness.
Pure vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Adds fragrant warmth and enhances all flavors.
Granulated sugar (1/4 cup) for cinnamon swirl: Combines with cinnamon to create the luscious swirl.
Confectioners’ sugar (1/2 cup): Used in the vanilla icing for a smooth, sweet finish.
Heavy cream or milk (1 tablespoon): Ensures the vanilla icing has a creamy, drizzle-worthy texture.

How to Make Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread with Vanilla Icing Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Getting your oven and loaf pan ready is the first important step. Set the oven rack to the lower third position and preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). This positioning prevents the top of your banana bread from over-browning while baking. Grease a 9×5-inch metal loaf pan with nonstick spray—this ensures your bread comes out clean and intact once baked.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt. This combination forms the foundation for your banana bread’s tender crumb and incorporates the subtle cinnamon flavor throughout the loaf. Setting this aside allows you to gradually add it later without overworking the batter.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

Using a handheld or stand mixer, beat the softened butter and sugar together on high speed for about three minutes, until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This crucial step incorporates air, resulting in a lighter loaf. If you’re new to this technique, it’s worth practicing because it really changes the texture!

Step 4: Add Eggs and Wet Ingredients

With the mixer on medium speed, add the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then mix in the mashed bananas, Greek yogurt, and vanilla extract until everything is just combined. This wet mix is what keeps your bread moist, tender, and bursting with flavor.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Slowly beat the dry ingredients into the wet mixture on low speed, just until no flour pockets remain. Resist the temptation to overmix here, as that can make your bread dense. This gentle blending preserves the perfect tender bite you want in your banana bread.

Step 6: Create the Cinnamon Swirl

Mix together the granulated sugar and 1 and 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon for the swirl. Pour half of the banana bread batter into your prepared loaf pan, then sprinkle evenly with half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture. Add the remaining batter on top, spreading it carefully as the cinnamon layer can make spreading a bit tricky. Finally, use a knife to swirl through the batter gently—this beautiful marbling gives the bread its signature look and flavor without blending the layers too much.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Bake your bread for 55 to 65 minutes, checking around 55 minutes with a toothpick inserted in the center—it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. To protect the top from browning too fast, loosely cover the bread with foil about halfway through baking. When done, let it cool in the pan for one hour before removing to finish cooling on a wire rack.

Step 8: Add the Vanilla Icing

While the bread cools, whisk together confectioners’ sugar, heavy cream (or milk), and vanilla extract until smooth. This thick, creamy icing is best drizzled over the completely cool loaf, creating a luscious finish that complements the cinnamon swirl beautifully.

How to Serve Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread with Vanilla Icing Recipe

A close-up view of a loaf of banana bread with two visible layers, resting on a silver cooling rack that sits on a wooden board. The bottom layer is a darker brown marbled section running through the bread's middle, surrounded by a lighter, soft-looking tan crumb with small air holes, and the crust is golden brown with a textured surface. The top of the loaf has a light white icing drizzle unevenly spread across the bread’s ridges, giving it a slightly shiny look. The background and surface are white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding a few thoughtful garnishes can elevate your presentation and add new textures. A sprinkle of chopped toasted walnuts or pecans on the icing adds crunch. Fresh banana slices or a dusting of cinnamon powder can also make your loaf look as irresistible as it tastes.

Side Dishes

This banana bread pairs wonderfully with a cup of hot coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon break. For a more decadent spread, serve alongside whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to create a dessert-worthy treat that never fails to impress.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice your Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread with Vanilla Icing Recipe into thick, generous portions and serve on a rustic wooden board with fresh fruit for a brunch or breakfast platter. You can also cut smaller bite-sized cubes for a party appetizer or serve alongside nut butters for an exciting flavor twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap your leftover banana bread tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps it moist and flavorful. If you plan to enjoy it over a longer period, placing it in the refrigerator allows it to stay fresh for up to a week.

Freezing

Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread with Vanilla Icing Recipe freezes beautifully. Wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then again in aluminum foil or place in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before bringing to room temperature.

Reheating

To revive the freshly baked texture, warm individual slices in the microwave for about 15–20 seconds or pop them into a toaster oven briefly. This restores softness and makes the vanilla icing melt slightly, making every bite divine.

FAQs

Can I use overripe bananas for this recipe?

Absolutely! Overripe bananas are perfect for this Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread with Vanilla Icing Recipe because they add extra sweetness and moisture, deepening the banana flavor.

Is it possible to make this banana bread dairy-free?

Yes, swap the butter for a plant-based alternative and use dairy-free yogurt and milk in the icing to accommodate a dairy-free diet without sacrificing taste or texture.

Can I use a different type of sweetener?

You can substitute granulated sugar with brown sugar for a richer flavor, or experiment with coconut sugar. Just keep the quantity the same for best results.

How can I tell when the bread is done baking?

The best way is to insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, your bread is perfectly baked. If batter sticks to it, bake a little longer and check again.

Can I double this recipe to bake two loaves at once?

Yes! Just split the batter evenly between two loaf pans and bake them simultaneously. You might need to increase the baking time slightly, so keep an eye on them starting around 55 minutes.

Final Thoughts

There’s something magical about how this Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread with Vanilla Icing Recipe combines familiar flavors into a truly memorable treat. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or simply indulging yourself, it’s a cozy, sweet way to brighten any day. I encourage you to try making this bread soon—you’ll be amazed at how effortlessly it turns your kitchen into a haven of irresistible aromas and happy smiles.