Introduction
If you’re looking for a way to elevate your classic banana bread, this Cream Cheese Banana Bread is the perfect twist! Light, moist, and delicious, this banana bread features a creamy layer of tangy cream cheese baked right into the middle. The combination of sweet bananas and rich cream cheese makes this bread irresistible, whether served for breakfast, as a snack, or even dessert. It’s an easy, comforting recipe that you’ll want to make again and again.
Course: Breakfast, Snack, Dessert
Cuisine: American
Keyword: banana bread, cream cheese banana bread, easy banana bread
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 65 minutes
Total Time: 80 minutes
Servings: 10 servings
Calories: Approximately 310 kcal per serving
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or non-stick spray, ensuring all sides are well coated. This will help the banana bread release easily after baking.
Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. This step ensures that the dry ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the batter, which helps the bread rise evenly.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar using a hand mixer or stand mixer. Beat on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 2-3 minutes. This process incorporates air into the batter, contributing to a light and tender crumb in the finished bread.
Step 4: Add the Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract, mixing until combined. The eggs add richness to the batter, while the vanilla enhances the flavor.
Step 5: Incorporate the Bananas and Sour Cream
Mix in the mashed ripe bananas and sour cream until well combined. The bananas add natural sweetness and moisture, while the sour cream adds a subtle tang that complements the cream cheese filling.
Step 6: Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer
In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. This layer adds a rich, tangy contrast to the sweet banana bread.
Step 7: Assemble the Bread
Pour half of the banana batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Gently spread the cream cheese over the batter, creating an even layer. Pour the remaining banana batter over the cream cheese layer, smoothing the top.
Step 8: Bake the Banana Bread
Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The bread should be golden brown and slightly firm to the touch.
Step 9: Cool and Serve
Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling time allows the flavors to develop and the bread to set, making it easier to slice.
Tips for Making Cream Cheese Banana Bread
Use Overripe Bananas
For the best flavor, use bananas that are very ripe with brown spots on the skin. Overripe bananas are sweeter and mash more easily, which adds moisture to the bread.
Don’t Overmix the Batter
Once you add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can result in a denser bread, as it develops the gluten in the flour.
Check for Doneness
Baking times can vary depending on your oven and the moisture content of your bananas. Start checking for doneness at the 60-minute mark by inserting a toothpick into the center of the bread. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, the bread is done.
Store Properly
Store any leftover banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also refrigerate it for up to a week or freeze it for longer storage. To freeze, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour, but the texture of the bread may be denser. You might also want to use half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour for a lighter texture.
Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to this recipe?
Absolutely! Adding ½ cup of chopped walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips to the batter can add extra flavor and texture. Fold them in gently after combining the wet and dry ingredients.
How do I soften cream cheese quickly?
If your cream cheese is too firm, cut it into small cubes and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short bursts of 10-15 seconds until softened.
Can I make this banana bread in a different pan size?
If you don’t have a 9×5-inch loaf pan, you can use an 8×4-inch pan, but you may need to adjust the baking time. A smaller pan may require an additional 5-10 minutes of baking. You can also bake the batter in muffin tins for individual portions, reducing the bake time to 20-25 minutes.
How do I prevent the cream cheese from sinking?
To ensure the cream cheese layer stays in the middle, make sure the first layer of banana batter is thick enough to support the cream cheese. If the cream cheese is too soft, you can chill it slightly before layering it in the bread.
With its moist texture, sweet banana flavor, and rich cream cheese filling, this Cream Cheese Banana Bread is sure to become a favorite in your home. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack, it’s a delicious twist on a classic recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!