Cream Cheese Banana Bread

Cream Cheese Banana Bread is a moist and flavorful twist on a classic favorite. With a luscious cream cheese layer swirled into the banana bread, every slice offers a perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess. This recipe is perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a midday snack that feels indulgent yet comforting.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Creamy Swirl: The cream cheese filling adds a decadent touch to traditional banana bread.
• Super Moist: Ripe bananas and cream cheese ensure a tender crumb every time.
• Crowd-Pleaser: A unique take on banana bread that will wow family and friends.
• Versatile: Enjoy as is, or add nuts, chocolate chips, or spices for a customized loaf.

Ingredients

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

For the Banana Bread:

• Ripe bananas (mashed)
• Granulated sugar
• Brown sugar
• Vegetable oil (or melted butter)
• Eggs
• Vanilla extract
• All-purpose flour
• Baking soda
• Salt
• Ground cinnamon (optional)

For the Cream Cheese Layer:

• Cream cheese (softened)
• Granulated sugar
• Egg
• Vanilla extract

Directions

this recipe

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. Make the banana bread batter: In a large bowl, mix the mashed bananas, granulated sugar, brown sugar, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined.
3. Prepare the cream cheese layer: In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
4. Assemble the bread: Pour half of the banana bread batter into the prepared loaf pan. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the batter. Top with the remaining banana bread batter, spreading it gently to cover the cream cheese layer.
5. Bake: Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top browns too quickly, tent with foil during the last 15 minutes of baking.
6. Cool and slice: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Makes 8-10 slices
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 50-60 minutes

Variations

• Nutty Addition: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
• Chocolate Swirl: Add chocolate chips to the banana batter or the cream cheese layer for a sweeter treat.
• Spiced Up: Include nutmeg or allspice for a deeper flavor profile.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for a gluten-free version.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Wrap individual slices or the whole loaf tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
• Reheating: Warm a slice in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for a fresh-from-the-oven feel.

FAQs

1. Can I use less sugar in the recipe?

Yes, reduce the sugar in the batter or cream cheese layer to suit your taste. The bananas will still add natural sweetness.

2. Can I skip the cream cheese layer?

Yes, you can make the banana bread without the cream cheese, but the filling is what makes this recipe special.

3. What type of bananas are best?

Overripe bananas with brown spots are ideal for their natural sweetness and moisture.

4. Can I use whole wheat flour?

Yes, but the bread may be denser. Consider using half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour for a lighter texture.

5. How do I prevent the cream cheese layer from sinking?

Ensure the batter and cream cheese layer are evenly distributed and handle gently while assembling.

6. What if my cream cheese isn’t soft enough?

Microwave it for 10-15 seconds to soften slightly, but avoid overheating.

7. Can I make muffins instead?

Yes, divide the batter and cream cheese mixture into a muffin tin and bake for 18-22 minutes.

8. What can I substitute for vegetable oil?

Melted butter or coconut oil are great alternatives for vegetable oil.

9. How can I tell when the bread is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter).

10. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply double the ingredients and bake in two loaf pans.

Conclusion

Cream Cheese Banana Bread takes a beloved classic to new heights with its creamy, tangy layer and moist texture. Whether enjoyed as a breakfast treat or a sweet snack, this recipe is sure to impress. Give it a try and savor the delightful combination of flavors and textures that make this banana bread unforgettable!

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