Cream Cheese Banana Bread

Cream Cheese Banana Bread is a delightful twist on the classic banana bread, featuring a creamy layer of cream cheese filling baked right into the loaf. This moist and flavorful bread is perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert. The combination of ripe bananas and cream cheese creates a rich and indulgent treat that everyone will love.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Combines the comforting taste of banana bread with a luscious cream cheese filling.
• Easy to make and uses simple pantry staples.
• Perfect for breakfast, a snack, or dessert.
• Freezes well for make-ahead convenience.
• A crowd-pleaser for potlucks, gatherings, or family meals.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ripe bananas
• All-purpose flour
• Granulated sugar
• Baking soda
• Salt
• Eggs
• Vanilla extract
• Butter
• Cream cheese
• Powdered sugar

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Directions

1. Prepare the Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mash the bananas, then mix in eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
4. Make the Batter: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling: In another bowl, beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and a little vanilla extract until smooth.
6. Assemble the Bread: Pour half the banana batter into the loaf pan, spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the batter, then top with the remaining batter.
7. Bake: Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Cool: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

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Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe makes approximately 8-10 slices.
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 60-70 minutes
• Total Time: 75-85 minutes

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Variations

• Chocolate Chip Cream Cheese Banana Bread: Add a handful of chocolate chips to the batter for a chocolatey twist.
• Nutty Version: Mix chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for added crunch.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
• Low-Sugar Version: Reduce the sugar and use a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup.
• Swirl Effect: Instead of layering the cream cheese, swirl it into the banana batter for a marbled look.

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Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
• Reheating: Warm slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for a freshly baked taste.

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FAQs

1. Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?

Yes, thaw the bananas completely and drain any excess liquid before using them in the batter.

2. How do I prevent the cream cheese layer from sinking?

Ensure the cream cheese filling is thick and spread it evenly over the first layer of batter.

3. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, but it may slightly alter the texture and make the bread denser.

4. Is it necessary to use ripe bananas?

Yes, ripe bananas are sweeter and provide the best flavor and texture.

5. Can I skip the cream cheese filling?

Absolutely! You can make a traditional banana bread by omitting the cream cheese layer.

6. How do I know when the banana bread is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the bread. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, it’s ready.

7. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply double the ingredients and bake in two loaf pans.

8. Why is my banana bread sinking in the middle?

This could be due to overmixing the batter or underbaking. Be careful not to overmix and check doneness with a toothpick.

9. Can I add cinnamon or spices to the recipe?

Yes, feel free to add cinnamon, nutmeg, or a spice blend for added warmth and flavor.

10. Can I use a different sweetener instead of sugar?

Yes, you can use honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar, but the texture may vary slightly.

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Conclusion

Cream Cheese Banana Bread takes the classic banana bread to a whole new level of deliciousness. With its moist banana base and creamy center, it’s a guaranteed hit for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it fresh out of the oven or freeze it for later, this recipe is a must-try for banana bread lovers.

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