Introduction
There’s something truly special about a loaf of freshly baked banana bread, and when you add a luscious cream cheese filling, it becomes a dreamy treat that’s hard to resist! This Cream Cheese Filled Banana Bread combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with a rich and creamy center, creating a delightful contrast in texture and flavor. Perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or even dessert, each slice is a cozy hug for your taste buds. Let’s dive into this simple yet irresistible recipe!
Ingredients
- 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 1 loaf
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan to ensure your banana bread releases easily once baked.
- In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly combine the mashed bananas with the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and melted butter, creating a nice, cohesive mixture.
- Add the eggs and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the banana mixture, stirring until everything is well blended and smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the baking soda, salt, and flour. Gradually fold this dry mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined to avoid overworking the batter.
- In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and the remaining teaspoon of vanilla extract until silky and smooth, ensuring a wonderfully creamy filling.
- Pour half of the banana bread batter into the prepared loaf pan, followed by an even layer of the cream cheese mixture spread across the top.
- Carefully pour the remaining banana batter over the cream cheese layer, smoothing it out gently to ensure an even bake.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating that it’s perfectly done.
- Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely—a test of patience, but oh-so-worth-it!
Notes or Tips
For the best flavor and texture, be sure to use very ripe bananas—the browner, the better! You can also customize the cream cheese layer by adding chocolate chips or nuts for a delightful twist. If you want a sweeter bread, feel free to increase the sugar a bit, though the bananas already provide plenty of natural sweetness.
Cooking Techniques
When mixing the batter, be careful not to overmix after adding the flour to maintain lightness. The combined flavors of the banana and cream cheese need time to meld, so let your bread sit for a few minutes after baking to settle before cutting. This will enhance the texture and flavor of each slice!
FAQ
Can I freeze the banana bread?
Absolutely! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to prevent freezer burn. It will keep well for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight when you’re ready to enjoy it!
How can I tell when it’s done baking?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, the bread is ready. If it’s sticky, give it a few more minutes in the oven.
Conclusion
This Cream Cheese Filled Banana Bread is sure to become a beloved recipe in your kitchen. With its inviting aroma and irresistible flavors, it’s a perfect way to use up those ripe bananas sitting on your counter. So gather your ingredients, follow these steps, and enjoy the comfort and joy of homemade banana bread—your kitchen will thank you!