Introduction
There’s something irresistibly cozy about the smell of fresh banana bread wafting through the kitchen. It’s the perfect combination of sweet, moist, and buttery goodness, especially when you add a luscious cream cheese filling! This Cream Cheese Filled Banana Bread is a delightful twist on a classic favorite, inviting you to indulge in its rich, creamy center while enjoying the familiar comfort of ripe bananas and warm spices. Gather your ingredients and get ready to bake some love into your home!
Ingredients
- 2 to 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for filling)
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. The smell of baking banana bread will soon fill your home!
- In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas and melted butter, stirring until they are well mixed and beautifully blended.
- Add in the granulated sugar, brown sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is perfectly combined.
- Sprinkle the baking soda and a pinch of salt over the banana mixture, then stir until they are nicely incorporated.
- Gradually add the flour to the mixture, folding it in just until blended. Be careful not to overmix; we want that moist crumb!
- In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Pour half of the banana batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
- Spoon the cream cheese mixture over the banana batter, spreading it gently to cover evenly.
- Top with the remaining banana batter, ensuring the cream cheese filling is completely covered.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The anticipation will be sweet torture as you await that golden brown loaf!
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy the rich aroma wafting through the air!
Notes or Tips
For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the batter. You can also use a mix of ripe bananas and slightly green ones for more texture. This banana bread freezes beautifully! Wrap it well in plastic wrap and foil to enjoy later.
Cooking Techniques
When mashing your bananas, aim for a smooth consistency with just a few small lumps for added texture. Be sure to let your cream cheese sit at room temperature for a bit; this makes it easier to achieve a perfectly creamy filling. Remember, folding your flour mixture gently is key to maintaining that fluffy texture in the final loaf!
FAQ
Can I use frozen bananas? Absolutely! Just thaw them completely, drain any excess liquid, and proceed with the recipe as usual.
How do I store the banana bread? Keep it at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week. It freezes well, too!
Can I substitute the cream cheese? Yes! You can use mascarpone or even a plant-based cream cheese for a different flavor profile.
Conclusion
Your kitchen will soon be filled with the delightful aroma of this Cream Cheese Filled Banana Bread, beckoning everyone to slice into its warm, creamy center. Perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a sweet treat after dinner, this recipe is sure to become a beloved tradition in your home. Enjoy every slice, and don’t be surprised if you find yourself going back for seconds!