Cream Cheese Banana Bread: The Best Moist Recipe You’ll Love
If you’re looking for a treat that’s both comforting and indulgent, this cream cheese banana bread is exactly what you need. Combining the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the creamy richness of a cream cheese layer, this recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether you’re a beginner baker or a seasoned pro, making this cream cheese banana bread recipe is straightforward and rewarding. Ready to give it a try? Let’s dive into the details!
Table of Contents
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ripe bananas (mashed) | 3 medium |
| Cream cheese (softened) | 150 g |
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups (250 g) |
| Sugar | 1 cup (200 g) |
| Eggs | 2 |
| Melted butter | 1/2 cup (115 g) |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon |
| Baking powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Baking soda | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1/4 teaspoon |
Preparation
Step 1: Gather and Prep Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a standard loaf pan with parchment paper to ensure your banana loaf with cream cheese comes out perfectly every time. In a bowl, mash the bananas until they are smooth and creamy, then set them aside for later.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until the ingredients are evenly distributed. This ensures an even rise for your cream cheese and banana bread.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, sugar, and eggs until smooth. Add the mashed bananas and vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly.
Step 4: Incorporate Dry and Wet Mixtures
Slowly incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, folding gently to combine. Take care not to overmix to ensure the bread stays light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to dense bread, and you want your cream cheese banana bread to stay moist and fluffy.
Step 5: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling
In a separate small bowl, mix the cream cheese with 2 tablespoons of sugar, beating until the texture is smooth and creamy.
Step 6: Assemble and Bake
Evenly spread half of the banana bread batter into the prepared loaf pan that has been greased and lined. Evenly layer the cream cheese mixture over the batter, then gently spread the remaining batter on top to fully cover it. Bake for 50–60 minutes, checking if it’s done by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few dry crumbs.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Allow the banana bread with cream cheese filling to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then gently move it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for Perfect Cream Cheese Banana Bread
- Choose ripe bananas: The more overripe the bananas, the sweeter and richer the flavor they will add to your bread..
- Enhance the taste by adding a handful of chopped walnuts or chocolate chips for a rich and indulgent twist.
- Storage Advice: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days, or freeze slices for up to a month.
Conclusion
This cream cheese banana bread recipe is perfect for any occasion, from breakfast treats to afternoon snacks. Its moist texture and the rich cream cheese layer make it a standout compared to regular banana bread recipes. Don’t let those ripe bananas go to waste—try this recipe today and see why it’s a favorite for so many!
FAQ
- Can whole wheat flour be used as a substitute for all-purpose flour?
- Yes, but the texture will be denser. For optimal results, try combining whole wheat flour with all-purpose flour.
- How can I tell if my banana bread is fully cooked?
- To ensure the bread is fully baked, insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, your banana bread is ready!
- Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
- Absolutely! You can replace all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free option.