Cream Cheese Banana Bread is a delightful twist on a classic favorite. With a rich, creamy layer of cream cheese swirled into the moist banana bread, this recipe results in a deliciously indulgent treat that is perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. It’s easy to make and utterly irresistible!
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2-3 bananas)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup sugar for cream cheese layer
- 1 egg for cream cheese layer
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In a separate bowl, beat the melted butter and 1 cup of sugar together. Add the eggs, mashed bananas, and vanilla extract, mixing well.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
- In another bowl, beat the cream cheese, 1/4 cup sugar, and 1 egg until smooth.
- Pour half of the banana bread batter into the loaf pan, spread the cream cheese mixture on top, and then add the remaining banana bread batter.
- Bake for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cool before slicing.
Servings and Timing
This recipe serves approximately 8 people. The total time for preparation and cooking is about 1 hour and 15 minutes.
Variations
- Nutty Addition: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture.
- Chocolate Chips: Mix in chocolate chips for a sweet touch.
- Spice It Up: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra flavor.
- Fruit Fusion: Incorporate blueberries or raspberries for a fruity twist.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to a week or freeze slices for up to 3 months. To reheat, microwave a slice for 10-15 seconds or warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes.
10 FAQs
- Can I use frozen bananas?
Yes, thawed frozen bananas work well; just make sure to drain any excess liquid. - What can I substitute for butter?
You can use vegetable oil or applesauce for a lighter version. - Is there a gluten-free option?
Yes, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. - How can I make this dairy-free?
Substitute cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative and use plant-based milk. - Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can double the ingredients and bake in two loaf pans or one larger pan. - What should I do if my cream cheese mixture is lumpy?
Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature before mixing to ensure a smooth texture. - How do I know when the banana bread is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. - Can I add frosting?
Cream cheese frosting would complement this banana bread beautifully if desired. - What should I serve with it?
It pairs well with coffee, tea, or a glass of milk. - Can I add more sugar to the batter?
While you can adjust the sweetness, be cautious not to overpower the banana flavor.
Conclusion
Cream Cheese Banana Bread is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that brings a new twist to a beloved classic. Its moist, tender crumb and creamy filling make it a favorite for any occasion. Easy to prepare and endlessly customizable, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire!
PrintCream Cheese Banana Bread
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Description
Enjoy a slice of Cream Cheese Banana Bread—light, moist, and irresistibly delicious! This delightful treat combines rich cream cheese and ripe bananas for a sweet, satisfying dessert or snack.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2–3 bananas)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup sugar (for cream cheese layer)
- 1 egg (for cream cheese layer)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In a separate bowl, beat melted butter and 1 cup of sugar. Add eggs, mashed bananas, and vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until combined.
- In another bowl, beat cream cheese, 1/4 cup sugar, and 1 egg until smooth.
- Pour half of the banana bread batter into the loaf pan, spread the cream cheese mixture on top, and then add the remaining banana bread batter.
- Bake for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool before slicing.
Notes
For added flavor, consider mixing in walnuts or chocolate chips.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes