A facile and efficient approach for benzylation of arylcyanamides with benzyl bromide has been developed using acidic zeolites as heterogeneous catalysts at 65 degrees C in acetonitrile. Recyclability of the catalyst, high yield, short reaction times, easy work up, economical and environmental benignancy of the catalyst are the attracting features of this protocol. (c) 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.