Banana Bread with Cinnamon Sugar Topping Recipe

Name: Banana Bread with Cinnamon Sugar Topping Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 1.0
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 cup all-purpose flour; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1 teaspoon cinnamon

I absolutely adore making this Banana Bread with Cinnamon Sugar Topping. There's something incredibly comforting about the smell of ripe bananas mingling with cinnamon wafting through my kitchen. This recipe is perfect for using up overripe bananas, and the sweet cinnamon sugar topping adds a delightful crunch that elevates each slice. I love sneaking a piece for breakfast or enjoying it as an afternoon snack. Every bite is a warm hug of flavors that brings back fond memories of baking with my family.

Created by

Nicola Fairchild

Last updated on 2026-01-05T19:05:34.789Z

While baking this banana bread, I experimented with different spices and found that a touch of nutmeg paired beautifully with cinnamon. The result was a flavor profile that was both warm and inviting. I also realized that using melted butter instead of oil provided a richer texture that my family absolutely loved. It's these small tweaks that make all the difference!

After some trials, I found that letting the banana bread cool in the pan for just a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack helps retain moisture. This ensures a soft, tender crumb that’s downright irresistible. Each time I make it, I find that it disappears before I know it!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Moist banana bread accented with a sweet cinnamon sugar crust
Perfect for using up ripe bananas, reducing food waste
Ideal for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert!

The Science Behind Banana Bread

Banana bread relies heavily on the ripeness of the bananas used. Ripe bananas are key because they provide natural sweetness and moisture, helping to create that desirable soft texture. When selecting bananas, look for those with lots of brown spots; this indicates optimal ripeness, which translates into better flavor. If you have bananas that are not yet ripe enough, consider placing them in a brown paper bag for a day or so to speed up the ripening process.

Baking soda serves as a leavening agent in this recipe, creating the desired rise in your banana bread. Be sure to use fresh baking soda, as its effectiveness diminishes over time. If you find yourself out of baking soda, you can substitute it with baking powder—just use about three times the amount, but remember it won't provide the same flavor depth. Additionally, the melted butter enhances the richness and depth of flavor, so don't skip this important ingredient.

Mastering the Perfect Texture

Achieving the perfect banana bread texture can be tricky, but a few simple techniques can help. When mixing your wet ingredients, use a fork to mash the bananas until smooth—this prevents chunks that can disrupt the uniformity of the final loaf. Additionally, avoid overmixing when adding the flour. Stop mixing as soon as you no longer see dry flour, as excessive mixing can develop gluten and result in a denser bread.

Another useful tip is to pay attention to the baking time and temperature. Every oven is different, so start checking your loaf around the 50-minute mark. Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. If the top is browning too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning while the inside continues to cook. This ensures an even bake and a nice golden crust.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delightful banana bread:

Ingredients for 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

Ingredients for Cinnamon Sugar Topping

2 tablespoons sugar
1 teaspoon cinnamon

Once you have all your ingredients ready, you're set to commence the baking journey!

Instructions

Follow these steps carefully for a perfectly baked banana bread:

Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 4x8 inch loaf pan.

Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, mix the mashed bananas with the melted butter. Stir in the baking soda and salt.

Combine Sugar and Egg

Add the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract to the banana mixture. Mix well until combined.

Add Flour

Gradually mix in the flour until just incorporated. Do not overmix.

Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Topping

In a small bowl, mix the sugar and cinnamon together for the topping.

Pour and Sprinkle

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over the top.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!

Serve your delicious banana bread warm, or store it in an airtight container to enjoy later!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider mixing chopped nuts or chocolate chips into the batter. Also, using very ripe bananas enhances the sweetness and moistness of the bread.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Banana bread can be easily stored for later enjoyment. Once cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing individual slices. Simply wrap each slice in plastic wrap, then place them in a zip-top bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy, simply let the slices thaw on the counter or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds.

If you prefer to make this recipe ahead of time, you can prepare the batter a day in advance. Just mix the wet and dry ingredients separately, and combine them right before you’re ready to bake. Another great make-ahead option is to freeze the overripe bananas instead of baking immediately. Peel and mash the bananas, then freeze in a single layer and store in a zip-top bag. When you’re ready to bake, simply thaw the bananas and use them directly in the recipe.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Banana bread is versatile in serving options. For a delightful breakfast, try toasting slices and spreading a thin layer of butter or cream cheese on top. It also pairs wonderfully with a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of nuts for added texture. If you're feeling indulgent, serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert.

Feel free to customize the recipe to your liking! You can add chocolate chips, walnuts, or dried fruits to the batter for added flavor and texture. If you want to make it healthier, consider replacing half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. This adds a nutty flavor and increases fiber content while still maintaining moisture. Enjoy experimenting with different additions to find your favorite version!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?

Yes, frozen bananas work great! Simply thaw them, drain any excess liquid, and mash.

→ What if I don’t have a loaf pan?

You can use any baking dish, but adjust the baking time as it may differ based on the size and shape.

→ How can I store leftover banana bread?

Wrap the bread in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it at room temperature for up to 4 days.

→ Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Fold in 1/2 cup of nuts or chocolate chips into the batter before baking for extra texture and flavor.