Why You’ll Love This Cream Cheese Banana Bread
- Easy and Delicious: With simple ingredients and easy steps, this recipe is accessible for all levels of bakers.
- Super Moist Texture: The cream cheese layer and ripe bananas make this bread extra tender.
- Sweet and Tangy: The cream cheese adds a slight tanginess that complements the sweetness of the bananas beautifully.
Tools You’ll Need
- Spatula
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk or electric mixer
- Loaf pan (9×5 inches)
Cream Cheese Banana Bread
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Description
There’s something so comforting about a warm slice of banana bread, and this Cream Cheese Banana Bread takes it up a notch! With a rich, creamy layer of sweet cream cheese running through the middle, each slice is a delightful blend of moist banana goodness and creamy, tangy filling. Perfect for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, this bread is sure to become a favorite treat.
Ingredients
For the Banana Bread:
- 2–3 ripe bananas, mashed (about 1 cup)
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
For the Cream Cheese Layer:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Loaf Pan
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan with butter or non-stick spray and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Banana Bread Batter
- In a large bowl, mash the bananas with a fork.
- Add melted butter, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract to the bananas. Mix until smooth.
- Sprinkle the baking soda and salt over the mixture and stir well.
- Add the flour and gently fold it into the mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Step 3: Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer
- In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Layer the Batter and Cream Cheese
- Pour half of the banana bread batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly.
- Gently spoon the cream cheese mixture over the banana batter, smoothing it into an even layer.
- Pour the remaining banana batter over the cream cheese layer, gently spreading it to cover the cream cheese completely.
Step 5: Bake the Bread
- Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 6: Slice and Serve
- Once cool, slice the banana bread and serve. Enjoy each slice with a warm cup of tea or coffee!
Notes
- Use Ripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be.
- Soften the Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese blends more easily, creating a smooth layer without lumps.
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can lead to a dense texture. Mix until ingredients are just combined.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
Storage Instructions
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Refrigerator: Keep in the fridge for up to 5 days. Let it come to room temperature or warm slightly before serving.
- Freezing: Slice and wrap each piece in plastic wrap, then store in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge or at room temperature.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to this recipe?
A: Absolutely! Fold in 1/2 cup of chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the batter for added texture and flavor.
Q2: What’s the best way to soften cream cheese quickly?
A: Place the cream cheese on a plate and microwave it in 10-second intervals until soft, being careful not to melt it.
Q3: Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose?
A: Yes, but the bread may be slightly denser. Consider using half whole wheat and half all-purpose for a balanced texture.
Conclusion: A Creamy Twist on a Classic Favorite!
This Cream Cheese Banana Bread is a delicious upgrade to a beloved classic. With its moist banana base and creamy filling, it’s a real treat for anyone who loves banana bread but wants something a little more indulgent. Try it out, and it might just become your new go-to recipe!
Nutritional Information (per slice)
- Fiber: 2g
- Calories: 280
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 13g
