Introduction
Light, moist, and packed with flavor, Cream Cheese Banana Bread is a delightful twist on the classic recipe. This version features a luscious layer of cream cheese that adds an irresistibly rich element, while the overall texture remains fluffy and enjoyable. Perfect for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, this banana bread is a must-try for any banana bread lover!
Ingredients
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 ripe bananas, mashed
1/4 cup sour cream
4 ounces cream cheese, softened
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cooking Time: 65 minutes
Total Time: 80 minutes
Yield: 10 servings
Detailed Directions and Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350F (175C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan to prevent sticking.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar:
In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy.
4. Add Wet Ingredients:
Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. Mix in the mashed bananas and sour cream until well combined.
5. Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling:
In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
6. Layer the Batter:
Pour half of the banana bread batter into the prepared loaf pan. Spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the top. Then, pour the remaining banana batter over the cream cheese layer.
7. Bake the Bread:
Bake the banana bread in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Cool and Serve:
Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Notes
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cooking Time:
65 minutes
Total Time:
80 minutes
Calories:
310 kcal per serving
Servings:
10 servings
Cook Techniques
Preheating the Oven
Preheat your oven to ensure even cooking. This step helps achieve the perfect rise and texture.
Mixing Dry Ingredients
Whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon to ensure the leavening agent is evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Creaming Butter and Sugar
Creaming involves beating softened butter with sugar until light and fluffy, incorporating air that helps the banana bread rise.
Add Wet Ingredients Gradually
Introduce eggs one at a time during mixing to ensure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. This ensures a smooth batter.
Preparing the Cream Cheese Filling
Beat the cream cheese until it is smooth and creamy to create a luscious layer that adds flavor and moisture to the bread.
Layering the Batter
Pour and spread the batter carefully to create distinct layers, ensuring the cream cheese filling is evenly distributed.
Baking the Bread
Monitor baking time closely and use a toothpick to check for doneness. The toothpick should come out clean when inserted into the center.
Cooling Properly
Allow the bread to cool in the pan for a short time before transferring to a wire rack. This prevents sogginess by allowing air to circulate around the bread.
FAQ
Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?
Yes, thawed frozen bananas work well. Make sure to drain any excess liquid before mashing.
How can I store the banana bread?
Store the cooled banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate or freeze.
Can I substitute the cream cheese with something else?
You can use mascarpone or ricotta cheese as alternatives, but the texture and flavor will vary.
Is it possible to make this banana bread gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, but make sure to check for other gluten-containing ingredients.
How do I know when the bread is fully baked?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the bread; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached when done.
Conclusion
Light, moist, and bursting with flavor, Cream Cheese Banana Bread transforms the beloved classic into a rich and fluffy delight. The luscious cream cheese layer adds an irresistible touch that elevates this treat, making it perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack. Enjoy it fresh out of the oven or toasted with a bit of butter!
Chocolate Chip Banana Bread
For a sweeter twist, fold in semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips to the batter for a deliciously decadent treat.
Nuts and Seeds Addition
Incorporate walnuts, pecans, or sunflower seeds into the batter for added crunch and a boost of healthy fats.
Coconut Cream Banana Bread
Mix in shredded coconut to the batter or sprinkle it on top before baking, giving it a tropical flair.
Peanut Butter Swirl Banana Bread
Add dollops of peanut butter to the cream cheese filling for a nutty flavor explosion that pairs perfectly with bananas.
Cinnamon Sugar Topping
Sprinkle a cinnamon sugar mixture on top of the batter before baking for an extra touch of sweetness and a delightful crust.
Fruit-Filled Variation
Stir in blueberries, raspberries, or chopped apples along with the banana for a fruity medley that’s both refreshing and delicious.
