Cream Cheese Banana Bread

Cream Cheese Banana Bread is a delightful twist on a classic favorite. With a rich, creamy layer of cream cheese swirled into the moist banana bread, this recipe results in a deliciously indulgent treat that is perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. It’s easy to make and utterly irresistible!

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup butter, melted
• 1 cup sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2-3 bananas)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup sugar for cream cheese layer
• 1 egg for cream cheese layer

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a separate bowl, beat the melted butter and 1 cup of sugar together. Add the eggs, mashed bananas, and vanilla extract, mixing well.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. In another bowl, beat the cream cheese, 1/4 cup sugar, and 1 egg until smooth.
6. Pour half of the banana bread batter into the loaf pan, spread the cream cheese mixture on top, and then add the remaining banana bread batter.
7. Bake for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cool before slicing.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves approximately 8 people. The total time for preparation and cooking is about 1 hour and 15 minutes.

Variations

• Nutty Addition: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture.
• Chocolate Chips: Mix in chocolate chips for a sweet touch.
• Spice It Up: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra flavor.
• Fruit Fusion: Incorporate blueberries or raspberries for a fruity twist.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to a week or freeze slices for up to 3 months. To reheat, microwave a slice for 10-15 seconds or warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use frozen bananas?
   Yes, thawed frozen bananas work well; just make sure to drain any excess liquid.
2. What can I substitute for butter?
   You can use vegetable oil or applesauce for a lighter version.
3. Is there a gluten-free option?
   Yes, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
4. How can I make this dairy-free?
   Substitute cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative and use plant-based milk.
5. Can I double the recipe?
   Yes, you can double the ingredients and bake in two loaf pans or one larger pan.
6. What should I do if my cream cheese mixture is lumpy?
   Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature before mixing to ensure a smooth texture.
7. How do I know when the banana bread is done?
   Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
8. Can I add frosting?
   Cream cheese frosting would complement this banana bread beautifully if desired.
9. What should I serve with it?
   It pairs well with coffee, tea, or a glass of milk.
10. Can I add more sugar to the batter?
    While you can adjust the sweetness, be cautious not to overpower the banana flavor.

Conclusion

Cream Cheese Banana Bread is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that brings a new twist to a beloved classic. Its moist, tender crumb and creamy filling make it a favorite for any occasion. Easy to prepare and endlessly customizable, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire!

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