Name: Swirled Banana Bundt Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp baking soda; 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 3 ripe bananas, mashed; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt; 1 tsp vanilla extract; Optional swirl: 1/4 cup cinnamon sugar or 1/3 cup melted chocolate/Nutella

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cake is a step up from ordinary banana bread, featuring a moist crumb and rich swirls of flavor in every slice. The bundt shape gives it an elegant presentation without the need for frosting or complicated decoration. Whether you choose to swirl in cinnamon, chocolate, or even nut butter, this cake is adaptable, easy to make, and stays moist for days.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

All-purpose flour
Baking soda
Baking powder
Salt
Ground cinnamon
Ripe bananas (mashed)
Granulated sugar
Brown sugar
Eggs
Unsalted butter (melted)
Sour cream or Greek yogurt
Vanilla extract
Optional swirl ingredients: cinnamon sugar, melted chocolate, or Nutella

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a bundt pan thoroughly.
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
In another bowl, combine mashed bananas, sugars, eggs, melted butter, sour cream, and vanilla. Mix until smooth.
Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined.
Pour half of the batter into the prepared bundt pan.
Add your swirl layer (e.g., sprinkle cinnamon sugar or drizzle chocolate/Nutella over the batter).
Top with the remaining batter, then use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the mixture.
Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool the cake in the pan for 15 minutes before turning out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and timing

Servings: 12–14 slices
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 55 minutes
Total time: About 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

Chocolate Swirl: Melt chocolate chips and swirl into the batter for a rich twist.
Cinnamon Streusel Swirl: Combine cinnamon, sugar, and a bit of flour and butter for a crumb-like swirl.
Nutty Swirl: Add chopped pecans or walnuts with cinnamon for extra crunch.
Caramel Banana: Swirl in dollops of caramel sauce for added sweetness.
Glaze It: Drizzle with a simple vanilla or cream cheese glaze for an extra touch of decadence.

Storage/Reheating

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. To freeze, wrap slices individually and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature or reheat slices in the microwave for 10–15 seconds.

FAQs

Can I use frozen bananas?

Yes, just thaw and drain off excess liquid before mashing.

What’s the best swirl option?

Cinnamon sugar is classic, but chocolate or Nutella adds a more decadent twist.

Why is my cake dry?

Overbaking can cause dryness. Start checking for doneness at the 50-minute mark.

Can I use oil instead of butter?

Yes, you can substitute an equal amount of vegetable or canola oil for a slightly different texture.

Do I need to use sour cream?

Sour cream or Greek yogurt adds moisture and richness. You can substitute one for the other.

Can I add mix-ins?

Absolutely—chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even dried fruit work well.

How do I prevent the cake from sticking?

Use a generous amount of butter or nonstick spray and dust with flour, especially in the crevices of the bundt pan.

Can I make this cake ahead?

Yes, it keeps well and can even taste better the next day as the flavors develop.

What size bundt pan should I use?

A standard 10- to 12-cup bundt pan is ideal for this recipe.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend designed for baking.

Conclusion

Swirled Banana Bundt Cake is a visually impressive, flavor-packed dessert that’s both comforting and elevated. With moist banana flavor and a beautiful swirl inside, it’s the kind of treat you’ll find yourself baking again and again. Whether you serve it at a gathering or enjoy a slice with your morning coffee, this cake is always a crowd-pleaser.