Name: Cream Cheese Banana Bread
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp baking soda; ½ tsp salt; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 4 ripe bananas, mashed; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; ½ cup powdered sugar; 1 large egg

Cream Cheese Banana Bread is a delightful twist on the classic banana bread recipe. By incorporating a luscious cream cheese filling, this dessert elevates the traditional flavor profile, resulting in a rich and moist loaf. The balance of sweet bananas with the creamy filling makes each slice a comforting, indulgent treat that pairs perfectly with a cup of tea or coffee. Whether for breakfast or as an afternoon snack, this cream cheese banana bread will satisfy your cravings and impress your guests with its delicious layers and texture.

Ingredients:

For the Banana Bread:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
4 ripe bananas, mashed

For the Cream Cheese Filling:

8 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup powdered sugar
1 large egg

Preparation:

Step 1:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5 inch loaf pan to ensure the bread doesn’t stick during baking.

Step 2:

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3:

In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This process usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Add in the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract and mashed bananas, mixing everything together until smooth.

Step 4:

In another bowl, beat together the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and egg until smooth and creamy. This will form the luscious cream cheese filling that runs through the banana bread.

Step 5:

Pour half of the banana bread batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly across the bottom. Next, layer the cream cheese mixture on top of the banana bread batter, spreading it evenly over the surface. Finally, pour the remaining banana bread batter over the cream cheese filling, ensuring it is fully covered.

Step 6:

Place the loaf pan in the oven and bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top of the bread should be golden and slightly firm to the touch. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Cooking Note:

To ensure even cooking, make sure to spread the cream cheese filling evenly to prevent it from sinking to the bottom during baking. If you’d like a slightly crisp top, you can sprinkle a little sugar over the batter before baking. Keep an eye on the loaf in the final stages of baking to avoid overbaking, as the bread can dry out if left too long in the oven.

Serving Suggestions:

Slice the banana bread once it’s completely cooled, and serve it with a drizzle of honey or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgence. It pairs wonderfully with hot tea, coffee, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert.

Tips:

For extra texture, try adding ½ cup of chopped walnuts, chocolate chips, or shredded coconut to the banana bread batter.
If you want a stronger banana flavor, use overripe bananas—they should be soft and spotty for the best sweetness and flavor.
Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing, as this ensures a smooth and lump-free filling.
Store any leftover banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 10 slices

Nutritional Information (per slice):

Calories: 320 kcal
Protein: 4g
Sodium: 220mg

FAQs:

Q: Can I make this banana bread without the cream cheese filling?

A: Yes, you can skip the cream cheese filling for a traditional banana bread, or use it as a marbled effect by swirling the cream cheese filling into the batter.

Q: Can I freeze this banana bread?

A: Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw it at room temperature or microwave individual slices as needed.

Q: Can I substitute the cream cheese with something else?

A: If you’re looking for a non-dairy alternative, you can substitute the cream cheese with vegan cream cheese or a mixture of silken tofu and powdered sugar for a similar creamy texture.

Conclusion:

This Cream Cheese Banana Bread is a game-changer in the world of banana bread recipes. The rich and creamy filling transforms the simple loaf into a dessert-worthy treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a banana bread fan or looking for a new baking adventure, this recipe offers the ideal balance of flavor, texture, and indulgence. Enjoy every bite of this sweet, comforting loaf and delight in the creamy surprise within each slice!