Blueberry Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread

This flavorful blueberry cinnamon swirl banana bread beautifully combines the comforting taste of classic banana bread with the fresh burst of blueberries and a cozy cinnamon swirl. It’s a perfect treat for breakfast, snack time, or dessert, bringing a lovely balance of sweetness and spice in every bite.

I first baked this loaf on a quiet Sunday morning and the scent filled the whole house. It quickly became a family favorite with everyone asking for seconds.

Gather Your Ingredients

• All-purpose flour: Two cups for a tender crumb make sure it is fresh for best texture
• Baking soda: One teaspoon to help the bread rise nicely
• Salt: A quarter teaspoon to balance sweetness
• Ground cinnamon: Half a teaspoon to infuse warmth into the batter
• Unsalted butter: Half a cup softened for creaminess and rich flavor
• Granulated sugar: Three quarters of a cup for sweetness and structure
• Eggs: Two large to bind the ingredients and add moisture
• Bananas: Three ripe mashed for natural sweetness and softness the riper the better
• Plain Greek yogurt: One third of a cup to keep the bread moist and tender
• Vanilla extract: One teaspoon for that lovely aromatic depth
• Fresh blueberries: One cup for juicy bursts of fruitiness choose firm berries that are deep blue
• Cinnamon swirl mix: For the cinnamon swirl mix a quarter cup granulated sugar with one and a half teaspoons ground cinnamon to sprinkle a sweet spicy layer inside the loaf

How to Make It

Sift the dry ingredients:

Whisk together the flour baking soda salt and cinnamon in a medium bowl then set aside making sure they are evenly combined

Cream the butter and sugar:

In a large mixing bowl beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until it is light fluffy and pale this usually takes about 3 to 5 minutes with an electric mixer

Add the eggs bananas and flavorings:

Beat in 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 smooth and fully combined without overmixing

Combine wet and dry ingredients:

Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula or wooden spoon just until the flour disappears and the batter is uniform but still light

Prepare the loaf pan:

Grease and lightly flour a nine by five inch loaf pan to prevent sticking and improve crust texture

Layer the batter and cinnamon swirl:

Pour half the batter evenly into the loaf pan then sprinkle half of the cinnamon and sugar mixture over it followed by half the blueberries Repeat layering with the remaining batter cinnamon sugar and blueberries

Create the swirl:

Use a skewer or knife to gently swirl through the layers creating a marbled effect but without overmixing

Bake the bread:

Place the loaf pan on the middle rack of the oven preheated to 350 degrees Fahrenheit or 175 degrees Celsius Bake for about 30 to 45 minutes Check doneness by inserting a skewer which should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs

Cool before slicing:

Allow the bread to rest and cool in the pan for 15 minutes then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing to preserve texture and flavor

I love the cinnamon swirl most because it adds an unexpected layer of warm spice that wakes up the flavors. One memorable afternoon my kids and I took this bread on a picnic to the park where every bite felt like a little celebration of simple pleasures.

Flavor Boosters

Store leftover banana bread wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature to keep it moist. It will stay fresh for up to three days or you can refrigerate for up to a week. For longer storage slice the bread and freeze pieces individually wrapped then thaw at room temperature or toast gently before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve slightly warm with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey for a comforting snack. This loaf pairs well with coffee or tea and makes a great breakfast topped with nut butter or cream cheese. It’s also a lovely dessert when served alongside vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

Creative Twists

In colder months swap blueberries for chopped apples or pears with a pinch of nutmeg for a cozy autumn version. In summer try fresh raspberries or blackberries with a hint of lemon zest for brightness. You can also add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra texture and flavor any time of the year.

This banana bread strikes the perfect balance between sweet and spice making it a timeless treat perfect for any occasion.

Common Questions About This Recipe

→ Can I use frozen blueberries instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen blueberries can be used. Thaw and drain them slightly before folding into the batter to prevent excess moisture.

→ How do I create the cinnamon swirl?

Mix granulated sugar with ground cinnamon and layer it between spoonfuls of batter in the pan. Swirl gently with a knife before baking.

→ What is the best way to store this banana bread?

Keep the bread tightly wrapped at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness up to a week.

→ Can I substitute Greek yogurt with sour cream?

Sour cream can be used as a one-to-one substitute to maintain moisture and richness in the bread.

→ At what temperature should I bake the bread?

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) for even baking and a golden crust.