Cream Cheese Banana Bread

If you love classic banana bread but want to take it up a notch, this Cream Cheese Banana Bread is the ultimate treat. It’s moist, rich, and packed with banana flavor, with a luscious swirl of sweetened cream cheese in every bite. Perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert, this recipe is a must-try!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ultra Moist – The cream cheese swirl adds extra moisture and richness.
• Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and quick prep.
• Perfectly Sweet – Natural sweetness from ripe bananas, balanced with just the right amount of sugar.
• Great for Any Occasion – Breakfast, snack, or dessert—this bread does it all!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Banana Bread:

• Ripe Bananas (3, mashed) – The riper, the better!
• All-Purpose Flour (2 cups) – Gives the bread structure.
• Sugar (¾ cup) – Adds sweetness and helps with texture.
• Brown Sugar (¼ cup) – Deepens the flavor with a caramel-like richness.
• Eggs (2 large) – Helps bind everything together.
• Unsalted Butter (½ cup, melted) – Adds moisture and richness.
• Vanilla Extract (1 tsp) – Enhances the flavor.
• Baking Soda (1 tsp) – Helps the bread rise.
• Cinnamon (½ tsp) – Adds warmth and depth.
• Salt (¼ tsp) – Balances the sweetness.

For the Cream Cheese Swirl:

• Cream Cheese (8 oz, softened) – The star of the swirl!
• Sugar (¼ cup) – Sweetens the filling.
• Egg (1 large) – Helps bind the mixture.
• Vanilla Extract (½ tsp) – Adds a subtle hint of flavor.

Tools You’ll Need

• Mixing Bowls
• Hand Mixer or Whisk
• Loaf Pan (9×5-inch)
• Spatula
• Cooling Rack

Let’s Make Cream Cheese Banana Bread

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan. Mash the bananas in a bowl and set them aside.

Step 2: Make the Banana Bread Batter

In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, sugar, and brown sugar. Add the eggs, vanilla extract, and mashed bananas. Stir until well combined.

In a separate bowl, whisk the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

Step 3: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture

In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Layer the Batter and Cream Cheese

Pour half of the banana bread batter into the greased loaf pan. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the batter. Top with the remaining banana bread batter. Use a knife to gently swirl the layers together for a marbled effect.

Step 5: Bake the Bread

Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top browns too quickly, loosely cover with aluminum foil halfway through baking.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Let the banana bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!

Serving Suggestions

• Spread with extra butter or honey for added richness.
• Serve warm with a cup of coffee or tea.
• Top with chopped nuts or chocolate chips for extra texture.

Tips for the Best Cream Cheese Banana Bread

• Use Overripe Bananas – The more brown spots, the sweeter and more flavorful the bread will be.
• Don’t Overmix – Stir until just combined to keep the bread tender.
• Check for Doneness – Every oven varies, so use the toothpick test.
• Make It Ahead – This bread tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.

Storing and Reheating

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerate: Keeps for up to a week. Warm slices in the microwave before serving.
• Freeze: Wrap slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?
Yes! Stir in ½ cup of chopped walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips for extra flavor.

What if I don’t have cream cheese?
You can leave it out for a classic banana bread or replace it with Greek yogurt for a tangy twist.

Can I make muffins instead?
Yes! Divide the batter into a muffin tin and bake at 350°F for about 20–25 minutes.

Conclusion

Cream Cheese Banana Bread is the ultimate combination of rich, creamy, and moist flavors. Whether you enjoy it as a sweet breakfast or an indulgent snack, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite.

Don’t forget to leave a review below and share your baking photos!

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 50–60 minutes
Cuisine: American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 280 | Protein: 5g | Carbohydrates: 38g | Fat: 12g | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 20g

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