Banana bread is a classic favorite, but this recipe adds a twist—snickerdoodle-style! Combining the sweet, moist goodness of banana bread with the cinnamon-sugar magic of snickerdoodles makes for an unforgettable treat. Whether you’re a long-time fan of banana bread or just looking for a new, crowd-pleasing dessert, this Snickerdoodle Banana Bread recipe will be a hit. Perfect for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, it’s a delicious way to elevate a traditional treat!
Why You’ll Love This Snickerdoodle Banana Bread
This recipe is perfect for banana bread lovers who want something a little different. The rich, banana flavor pairs beautifully with a sweet, crunchy cinnamon-sugar crust. It’s the best of both worlds—comforting banana bread with the warm, spiced notes of snickerdoodles. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a beginner, this recipe is easy to follow, and the results are amazing. Plus, it’s ideal for sharing, making it a great addition to potlucks, family gatherings, or just for enjoying at home.
Ingredients Breakdown
To create this delectable Snickerdoodle Banana Bread, here’s a breakdown of the essential ingredients you’ll need:
For the Bread:
- 3/4 cup sugar – Adds sweetness and helps give the bread its classic flavor.
- 1/2 cup oil – Keeps the bread moist and tender. You can use vegetable oil or melted coconut oil.
- 3 tablespoons sour cream – Adds richness and moisture, giving the bread a soft texture.
- 2 large eggs – Helps bind the ingredients together, creating structure and stability.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda – Leavens the bread, ensuring it rises properly.
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed – Provides natural sweetness and moisture, while also contributing to the bread’s signature banana flavor.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour – The base of the bread, giving it structure and texture.
For the Cinnamon-Sugar Layer:
- 1/2 cup sugar – Enhances the sweetness and adds to the crunchy topping.
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon – Provides that snickerdoodle-inspired warmth and flavor.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need:
- Mixing bowls (small and medium)
- Mini loaf pans (4) or 1 large loaf pan
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk or spatula
- Masher for bananas
- Oven
- Toothpick (for testing doneness)
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Snickerdoodle Banana Bread
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease either four mini loaf pans or one large loaf pan, ensuring your bread won’t stick during baking.
Step 2: Prepare the Cinnamon-Sugar Layer
In a small bowl, mix together 1/2 cup of sugar and 2 teaspoons of cinnamon. Set this aside for later—this mixture will create the signature snickerdoodle crunch.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine 3/4 cup sugar, 1/2 cup oil, and 3 tablespoons of sour cream. Add 2 eggs and whisk the mixture until smooth.
Step 4: Add Bananas and Dry Ingredients
Mash the 3 bananas in a separate bowl, then fold them into the wet ingredients. Add the 1 teaspoon baking soda and gradually incorporate the 2 cups of flour, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—this ensures a tender, soft crumb.
Step 5: Layer the Batter and Cinnamon-Sugar
Sprinkle a thin layer of the cinnamon-sugar mixture on the bottom of each greased pan. Fill each loaf pan halfway with the banana bread batter. Sprinkle more of the cinnamon-sugar mixture on top, creating a flavorful middle layer. Add the remaining batter, filling the pans about 3/4 full. Finish by sprinkling the rest of the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly on top of each loaf.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place the loaf pans in the preheated oven. If you’re making mini loaves, bake for 30 minutes; for a large loaf, bake for 60 minutes. To check if the bread is done, insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf. It should come out clean or with only a few crumbs attached.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the pans from the oven and allow the bread to cool for 5–10 minutes. Carefully remove the loaves from the pans, slice, and serve while still warm.

Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the batter: Stirring the batter too much can lead to a tough, dense bread. Mix only until the ingredients are just combined.
- Not using ripe bananas: The riper the bananas, the better the flavor and moisture. Look for bananas that are deeply yellow with plenty of brown spots.
- Skipping the cinnamon-sugar layer: This layer is what makes the bread special! Don’t forget to add it to the bottom, middle, and top of the batter for that perfect snickerdoodle effect.
Snickerdoodle Banana Bread Recipe Tips
- Banana Substitutes: If you’re out of bananas, you can substitute with applesauce (1:1 ratio) for a different fruity twist, though it will slightly change the flavor and texture.
- Adding Nuts or Chocolate: For a variation, fold in 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or chocolate chips into the batter for added texture and flavor.
- Sour Cream Alternative: If you don’t have sour cream, plain Greek yogurt is a great substitute to maintain moisture in the bread.
Serving and Presentation Ideas
Present your Snickerdoodle Banana Bread in a creative way to impress guests or family:
- Sliced and Stacked: Arrange slices on a cake stand for a simple, elegant display.
- Serve with Butter or Jam: A thin layer of butter or jam adds a delightful touch to warm slices.
- Pair with Fresh Fruit: Serve alongside fresh strawberries or blueberries for a light, refreshing touch.
How to Store and Freeze Snickerdoodle Banana Bread
Storing
If you have leftovers (which might not happen!), store your Snickerdoodle Banana Bread at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For longer freshness, place it in the refrigerator, where it can last for up to a week.
Freezing
To freeze, wrap each loaf (or slices) tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. The bread will keep for up to 3 months in the freezer. To enjoy later, thaw the bread at room temperature or pop a slice in the microwave for a quick warm-up.
FAQs About Snickerdoodle Banana Bread
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, but using whole wheat flour may make the bread denser. If you want a healthier version, try using a blend of half all-purpose flour and half whole wheat.
What can I use instead of sour cream?
Plain Greek yogurt is a great alternative to sour cream. It adds the same moisture and richness to the bread.
Can I make muffins instead of loaves?
Absolutely! Simply divide the batter into a muffin tin and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Conclusion
This Snickerdoodle Banana Bread recipe is the perfect fusion of comforting banana bread and the cinnamon-sugar flavors of snickerdoodles. Whether you’re baking for yourself, family, or friends, this delicious and unique twist will surely be a hit. Don’t forget to share this recipe with others and subscribe to our blog for more exciting recipes like this one!
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Snickerdoodle Banana Bread Recipe
- Total Time: 45–75 minutes
- Yield: 8–10 slices per loaf 1x
Description
A perfect blend of banana bread and snickerdoodle flavors. This moist, sweet Snickerdoodle Banana Bread recipe is sure to impress!
Ingredients
To create this delectable Snickerdoodle Banana Bread, here’s a breakdown of the essential ingredients you’ll need:
For the Bread:
- 3/4 cup sugar – Adds sweetness and helps give the bread its classic flavor.
- 1/2 cup oil – Keeps the bread moist and tender. You can use vegetable oil or melted coconut oil.
- 3 tablespoons sour cream – Adds richness and moisture, giving the bread a soft texture.
- 2 large eggs – Helps bind the ingredients together, creating structure and stability.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda – Leavens the bread, ensuring it rises properly.
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed – Provides natural sweetness and moisture, while also contributing to the bread’s signature banana flavor.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour – The base of the bread, giving it structure and texture.
For the Cinnamon-Sugar Layer:
- 1/2 cup sugar – Enhances the sweetness and adds to the crunchy topping.
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon – Provides that snickerdoodle-inspired warmth and flavor.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease either four mini loaf pans or one large loaf pan, ensuring your bread won’t stick during baking.
Step 2: Prepare the Cinnamon-Sugar Layer
In a small bowl, mix together 1/2 cup of sugar and 2 teaspoons of cinnamon. Set this aside for later—this mixture will create the signature snickerdoodle crunch.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine 3/4 cup sugar, 1/2 cup oil, and 3 tablespoons of sour cream. Add 2 eggs and whisk the mixture until smooth.
Step 4: Add Bananas and Dry Ingredients
Mash the 3 bananas in a separate bowl, then fold them into the wet ingredients. Add the 1 teaspoon baking soda and gradually incorporate the 2 cups of flour, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—this ensures a tender, soft crumb.
Step 5: Layer the Batter and Cinnamon-Sugar
Sprinkle a thin layer of the cinnamon-sugar mixture on the bottom of each greased pan. Fill each loaf pan halfway with the banana bread batter. Sprinkle more of the cinnamon-sugar mixture on top, creating a flavorful middle layer. Add the remaining batter, filling the pans about 3/4 full. Finish by sprinkling the rest of the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly on top of each loaf.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place the loaf pans in the preheated oven. If you’re making mini loaves, bake for 30 minutes; for a large loaf, bake for 60 minutes. To check if the bread is done, insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf. It should come out clean or with only a few crumbs attached.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the pans from the oven and allow the bread to cool for 5–10 minutes. Carefully remove the loaves from the pans, slice, and serve while still warm.
Notes
Present your Snickerdoodle Banana Bread in a creative way to impress guests or family:
- Sliced and Stacked: Arrange slices on a cake stand for a simple, elegant display.
- Serve with Butter or Jam: A thin layer of butter or jam adds a delightful touch to warm slices.
- Pair with Fresh Fruit: Serve alongside fresh strawberries or blueberries for a light, refreshing touch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes (mini loaves) / 60 minutes (large loaf)
- Category: Breakfast