Cream Cheese Banana Bread – light, moist and delicious!

A Delightful Twist on Classic Banana Bread with a Creamy Filling

Cream Cheese Banana Bread takes your favorite banana bread recipe and gives it a luscious upgrade. With a rich layer of cream cheese baked into the center, every slice has a creamy surprise that perfectly complements the sweet, moist banana bread. It’s a cozy, comforting treat perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an anytime snack!

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Why You’ll Love This Cream Cheese Banana Bread 🥰

This isn’t just banana bread it’s banana bread with a creamy twist! The cream cheese layer makes each slice extra special, adding a richness that makes this bread feel like a decadent treat. The bananas add natural sweetness, while the hint of cinnamon adds warmth. This bread is easy to make, yet looks and tastes like something you’d find at a bakery.

Ingredients You’ll Need 🍌

Dry Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour – The base of your bread.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda – Helps the bread rise and keeps it light.
• ½ teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances flavors.
• ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon – Adds warmth that complements the bananas.

Wet Ingredients:

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened – Adds richness and moisture.
• 1 cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the bread and helps create a tender crumb.
• 2 large eggs – Gives structure and stability.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds depth and flavor.
• 3 ripe bananas, mashed – The star ingredient, bringing natural sweetness and moisture.
• ¼ cup sour cream – Keeps the bread extra moist and adds a slight tang.

Cream Cheese Layer:

• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened – Creates a creamy filling that’s absolutely delicious.

Step-by-Step Directions 🍞

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease the Pan: Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or nonstick spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. This helps evenly distribute the leavening and spices.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

1. Beat Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. This step helps create a tender texture in the bread.
2. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract to add a warm, aromatic flavor.

Step 4: Add Bananas and Sour Cream

1. Mash Bananas: Mash the ripe bananas in a small bowl until smooth, then add them to the butter mixture.
2. Mix in Sour Cream: Stir in the sour cream, which adds moisture and a slight tang to the bread. Mix until everything is well combined.

Step 5: Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer

1. Beat the Cream Cheese: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s smooth and spreadable. This will make it easier to layer into the bread.

Step 6: Assemble the Banana Bread

1. Layer the Batter and Cream Cheese: Pour half of the banana batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly. Next, spread the cream cheese over the batter layer, being careful not to mix it into the batter.
2. Add the Remaining Batter: Pour the remaining banana batter over the cream cheese layer and gently smooth the top with a spatula.

Step 7: Bake the Bread

1. Bake for 60-70 Minutes: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be golden brown, and the bread should spring back when lightly pressed.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

1. Cool in the Pan: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, which helps it set.
2. Transfer to a Wire Rack: Carefully remove the bread from the pan and place it on a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. This helps ensure that the cream cheese layer stays intact.

Tips for the Best Cream Cheese Banana Bread 📝

• Use Ripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be. Look for bananas with brown spots for the best results.
• Don’t Overmix: When adding the dry ingredients, mix just until combined to keep the bread tender.
• Soften the Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese is easier to spread and creates a smoother layer in the bread.
• Customize with Add-ins: Love nuts? Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a bit of crunch.

Serving Suggestions 🍽️

• Warm with Butter: Serve a warm slice with a small pat of butter for extra richness.
• Top with Fresh Bananas: Garnish slices with fresh banana slices for a fun twist.
• With Coffee or Tea: This bread pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or tea, making it a perfect breakfast or snack.

Storing and Reheating 🍌

• Store in the Fridge: Because of the cream cheese layer, store leftover banana bread in the fridge. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container.
• Reheat Slices: For a fresh-from-the-oven taste, warm slices in the microwave for about 10 seconds before serving.

A New Twist on Classic Banana Bread 🍞🍌

Cream Cheese Banana Bread is an easy yet impressive recipe that’s sure to become a favorite. With its soft banana flavor and surprise cream cheese center, this bread offers something a little extra that elevates it beyond the classic version. Whether you’re enjoying it as breakfast, dessert, or a midday snack, each slice is a sweet, creamy delight!