Cinnamon Crunch Banana Bread Recipe

I absolutely love sharing this Cinnamon Crunch Banana Bread Recipe with you because it transforms the humble banana bread into something irresistibly crunchy, cinnamon-spiced, and easy to whip up on any lazy weekend. Whether you’re looking for a cozy breakfast treat or a scrumptious snack for afternoon coffee, this recipe always hits the spot for me. The layers of cinnamon swirl and the crunchy streusel topping make every bite a little celebration.

When I first tried this recipe, I was amazed at how simple ingredients turned into such a comforting, flavorful loaf. You’ll find that the cinnamon crunch adds a delightful texture without overwhelming the natural sweetness of the bananas. It’s perfect for using up overripe bananas and makes your kitchen smell like fall all year round—trust me, you’re going to want to make this your go-to!

this …

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Cinnamon Crunch Banana Bread Recipe plays a special role—from the ripe bananas that bring natural sweetness and moisture to the cinnamon and crunchy oats that give it that iconic texture and flavor. Here are my tips on picking the best ones!

• Ripe Bananas: Look for bananas with lots of brown spots; they’re sweeter and mash easily for better flavor.
• Eggs: Provide structure; if possible, use fresh farm eggs for richer taste.
• Coconut Oil: I love this for its subtle flavor and healthy fats—make sure it’s melted but cooled to avoid cooking the eggs.
• Maple Syrup: Adds natural sweetness and depth; you can swap for honey but maple has a better flavor here.
• Milk of Choice: Dairy or plant-based, just keep it at room temperature so it doesn’t shock the batter.
• Vanilla Extract: Just a splash, but essential for rounding out the flavors.
• All-Purpose Flour: The base of the bread; be careful to measure properly for best texture.
• Baking Soda & Baking Powder: Help the bread rise perfectly—don’t skip or substitute.
• Ground Cinnamon: The star spice of this recipe—use fresh ground for the best aroma.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavors.
• White Sugar: Used in the cinnamon swirl and streusel for that sweet crunch.
• Oats: I use rolled or quick oats for the streusel—adds a rustic, hearty texture.

Variations

I love experimenting with this Cinnamon Crunch Banana Bread Recipe to suit different tastes or dietary needs—you can make it your own easily and still get incredible results.

• Gluten-Free Version: I’ve swapped the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend and it turns out just as moist and tasty.
• Nutty Addition: Stir in chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for an extra crunch that my family goes crazy for.
• Vegan Swap: Use flax eggs instead of regular eggs and a plant-based milk—you’ll get a slightly different texture but still delicious.
• Chocolate Chips: For an indulgent twist, sprinkle semisweet chocolate chips into the batter—everyone loves this!

How to Make Cinnamon Crunch Banana Bread Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prep Your Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Line a rectangle loaf pan with parchment paper—this makes removing the bread so much easier, and cleanup too! I like to leave a little overhang on the sides to use as handles when pulling the bread out.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

Grab a medium mixing bowl and gently whisk together your flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Mixing these first ensures your leavening agents are evenly distributed so your bread rises nicely without any bitter pockets.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mash your ripe bananas until smooth. Add the eggs, melted and cooled coconut oil, maple syrup, milk, and vanilla extract. Whisk everything well—this is the part where your batter starts to come alive with flavor and moisture.

Step 4: Bring Wet and Dry Together

Slowly add your dry ingredients into the wet banana mixture. I always pour a little at a time and fold gently with a spatula to avoid overmixing, which can make your bread tough. Stop mixing as soon as you no longer see flour streaks—this helps keep the crumb tender.

Step 5: Prepare Cinnamon Swirl

In a small bowl, combine melted coconut oil, white sugar, and cinnamon for the cinnamon swirl mixture. This magic blend adds bursts of cinnamon sweetness baked right inside the loaf.

Step 6: Layer the Batter and Swirl

Pour about a third of the banana bread batter into your prepared loaf pan. Top with half of the cinnamon swirl mixture, using a knife or skewer to swirl it through the batter gently. Repeat once more with the next third of batter and the rest of your cinnamon mixture. Finish by smoothing the last third of batter on top—this layer won’t have cinnamon swirl.

Step 7: Make and Add Streusel Topping

Combine the white sugar, cinnamon, oats, flour, and softened coconut oil in a small bowl. Mix with a fork until crumbly and well blended. Sprinkle this generous topping over the batter and lightly press down so it sticks during baking. This step takes your banana bread to the next level with incredible texture.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Bake your loaf for 40 to 50 minutes, checking at around 40 minutes by inserting a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, you’re all set! Overbaking dries it out, so keep an eye on it and remove it promptly.

How to Serve Cinnamon Crunch Banana Bread Recipe

Garnishes

I like to toast a thick slice and spread a little butter or cream cheese on top—that melting contrast with the crunchy cinnamon streusel is pure heaven. A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a lovely finish if you’re serving guests.

Side Dishes

This banana bread pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or chai tea for a cozy afternoon treat. For brunch, I’ve paired it with fresh fruit salad or yogurt with granola to balance the sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I’ve served slices drizzled with a caramel sauce or alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream. You can also cut it into mini bundt cakes for a cute party presentation that’s sure to impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, I wrap the banana bread tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It stays fresh and moist for about 2-3 days—though it rarely lasts that long in my house!

Freezing

This Cinnamon Crunch Banana Bread Recipe freezes really well. I slice it before freezing so I can easily thaw individual pieces. Wrap each tightly in plastic wrap plus foil, then place in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.

Reheating

To warm leftovers, I pop a slice in the toaster oven or microwave for 20-30 seconds. This revives the fresh-baked feeling and reactivates the crunch on the streusel topping—delicious!

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Cinnamon Crunch Banana Bread Recipe has become one of my favorite ways to enjoy banana bread thanks to its perfect balance of cozy cinnamon warmth and satisfyingly crunchy texture. I promise you’ll feel like a pro baking this, even if you’re new to banana bread making. So go on, grab your overripe bananas and give it a try—I can’t wait to hear how much your family and friends love it as much as mine do!

Print