If you’re a fan of classic banana bread, get ready to fall in love with this cream cheese-filled version. This recipe takes the comforting flavors of banana bread to a whole new level by adding a rich, creamy layer of sweetened cream cheese right in the middle. The result is a moist, tender loaf with a delightful surprise in every slice. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack, this banana bread is sure to become a new favorite in your baking repertoire.
Ingredients:
For the Banana Bread:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2-3 bananas)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
For the Cream Cheese Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Make the Banana Bread Batter:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set aside. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Mix in the mashed bananas, vanilla extract, and sour cream or Greek yogurt.
3. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter to ensure a tender loaf.
4. Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling:
In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the sugar, egg, and vanilla extract, and continue beating until the mixture is creamy and well combined.
5. Layer the Batter and Filling:
Pour half of the banana bread batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly. Spoon the cream cheese filling over the batter, spreading it carefully to cover the surface. Top with the remaining banana bread batter, gently spreading it to cover the cream cheese layer.
6. Bake the Bread:
Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top starts to brown too quickly, you can cover it loosely with foil during the last 15-20 minutes of baking.
7. Cool and Serve:
Allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy the deliciously moist banana bread with its rich cream cheese center.
Tips for the Best Cream Cheese Filled Banana Bread:
- Ripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be. Look for bananas with plenty of brown spots.
- Cream Cheese Layer: To prevent the cream cheese filling from sinking, make sure the batter is thick enough to support it. If your banana bread batter seems too thin, add a tablespoon of flour.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This bread also freezes well—just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing.
This Cream Cheese Filled Banana Bread is a delightful twist on a classic recipe. The creamy filling adds an extra layer of richness that pairs perfectly with the sweet banana flavor. Whether you’re enjoying a slice with your morning coffee or as a dessert, this bread is sure to satisfy your cravings and become a go-to recipe in your kitchen.