Banana Bread with Cinnamon Sugar Topping Recipe

Name: Banana Bread with Cinnamon Sugar Topping Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Yield: 1 loaf
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 ground cinnamon

Highlighted under: Easy Baking Inspiration

I love making banana bread, and this recipe is my absolute favorite! The addition of a cinnamon sugar topping takes it to another level, creating a perfect balance of sweetness and spice. Each bite is filled with the rich, moist flavor of ripe bananas, complemented by that delightful crunch on top. Whenever I have overripe bananas, I excitedly turn to this recipe, knowing it will fill my home with fragrant warmth. It's perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert, and I can't wait for you to find out how simple yet delicious it is!

Created by

Grace Walker

Last updated on 2026-01-05T23:45:35.696Z

When I first stumbled upon this banana bread recipe, I was skeptical about the cinnamon sugar topping. I thought the bread would be delicious enough on its own. However, after my first bite, I was instantly a fan! The crispy topping adds a delightful texture and a warm sweetness that perfectly enhances the moistness of the bread. It's a simple twist that truly elevates this classic recipe.

I've tried numerous methods for banana bread over the years, but this one has become my go-to. The trick lies in using overly ripe bananas, as they provide maximum flavor while keeping the bread moist. Plus, I often add chopped nuts or chocolate chips for extra indulgence!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich banana flavor perfectly enhanced by a cinnamon sugar crust
Moist and tender texture that’s simply irresistible
Quick and easy to make, perfect for a busy day or surprise guests

      

Mastering the Banana Mash

The key to achieving a delectable banana bread lies in the bananas themselves. Using very ripe bananas, those with plenty of brown spots, not only enhances the sweetness but also contributes to the moisture of the bread. When mashing the bananas, aim for a smooth consistency, as this will help incorporate them evenly into the batter. Allowing them to reach room temperature can also aid in achieving that rich, cohesive flavor you're aiming for.

If you don’t have quite enough ripe bananas on hand, you can substitute one of them with unsweetened applesauce for a similarly moist outcome. Just remember that this swap may slightly alter the flavor profile, but it will still yield a tasty treat!

Topping Techniques

Sprinkling the cinnamon sugar topping generously across the batter before baking not only adds a delightful crunch but also enhances the overall flavor. For best results, ensure that the mixture is evenly distributed. Using your fingers to break up any lumps in the sugar and cinnamon beforehand can create a more uniform topping, allowing for that perfect sweet-spice contrast in every bite.

You can also experiment with the cinnamon sugar ratio if you like a stronger flavor, but be cautious—too much can overpower the delicate banana taste. A little sprinkle of nutmeg or cardamom can be a unique twist if you’re feeling adventurous!

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before you start to make the process seamless and enjoyable.

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

Now that you have everything ready, it’s time to start baking!

Instructions

Follow these steps for an easy, delicious banana bread experience.

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix Banana and Butter

In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth. Stir in the melted butter.

Add Ingredients

Mix in baking soda and salt. Then add the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract, stirring until combined. Finally, fold in the flour until just incorporated.

Prepare the Topping

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

Transfer to Pan

Pour the banana bread batter into the prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture on top evenly.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 55 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Enjoy

Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Your banana bread is ready to be enjoyed! Serve it warm or at room temperature for the best flavor.

Pro Tips

For an even richer flavor, consider adding chopped walnuts or chocolate chips to the batter. Using very ripe bananas enhances the sweetness and moisture of the bread. If you want extra cinnamon flavor, sprinkle some on the batter before adding the topping!

Storage Tips

To keep your banana bread fresh, store it at room temperature in an airtight container. It's best enjoyed within three days, but I’ve had success keeping it for up to a week. If you want to extend its shelf life, consider wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerating it, which can keep it moist and flavorful even longer.

Freezing banana bread is also a great option! Simply wrap slices or the whole loaf in aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can last for around three months in the freezer. To enjoy, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or pop it straight into the toaster for a quick warming treat.

Serving Suggestions

This banana bread is delicious on its own, but you can elevate it further. Try serving it warm with a pat of butter or a dollop of cream cheese spread for added richness. For a breakfast twist, enjoy it alongside a bowl of fresh fruit or yogurt, which balances the sweetness beautifully.

Another fun idea is to turn it into a decadent dessert. Slice the banana bread, toast it lightly, and serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce. It becomes an instant crowd-pleaser at any table, bringing a wonderful combination of flavors and textures.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas?

Yes, thaw the frozen bananas and drain excess liquid before mashing them.

→ How do I store leftover banana bread?

Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for about a week.

→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

→ Is there a way to make this banana bread healthier?

You can reduce the sugar amount or substitute it with honey, maple syrup, or a sugar alternative.