If you are seeking a wonderfully moist and flavorful treat to brighten your breakfast or satisfy your snack cravings, this Cream Cheese Banana Bread Recipe is an absolute must-try. Combining the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the rich, luscious texture of cream cheese creates a next-level banana bread experience that’s soft, tender, and perfectly decadent. Every slice delivers a comforting balance of smooth cream cheese swirls and the familiar warm cinnamon-like aroma of homemade banana bread. This recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that feels like a warm hug in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with this recipe is delightfully simple, and each ingredient plays a pivotal role in achieving that perfect texture and flavor. From the ripe bananas that give it natural sweetness to the cream cheese that adds a creamy tang, every component is essential for this delicious banana bread.
- 1 1/2 cups mashed ripe bananas: Use very ripe bananas for the sweetest and most flavorful result.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Adds moisture and a slight tang to keep the bread tender.
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil: Ensures the bread stays moist without being greasy.
- 1 cup sugar: Sweetens the bread just right; you can adjust this based on your preference.
- 2 large eggs: Bind everything together and contribute to the bread’s rich texture.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile with a warm, sweet aroma.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the structure to hold all the wonderful ingredients.
- 1 tsp baking soda: Helps the bread rise and stay light.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Balances sweetness and intensifies flavor.
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened: The star ingredient that creates creamy layers and adds richness.
How to Make Cream Cheese Banana Bread Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a standard loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to ensure your banana bread comes out cleanly and is easy to slice later.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the mashed ripe bananas, sour cream, vegetable oil, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk these together until smooth and well blended to create a luscious, creamy batter foundation.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Then gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Be careful not to overmix, as you want to keep the batter light and airy.
Step 4: Beat the Cream Cheese
Using an electric mixer or a sturdy whisk, beat the softened cream cheese until it becomes completely smooth with no lumps. This step is important because it ensures those creamy pockets melt perfectly during baking.
Step 5: Assemble the Layers
Pour half of the banana bread batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly. Drop dollops of the beat cream cheese over the batter, then carefully spread the remaining banana bread batter on top. This layering technique creates the delightful cream cheese swirls in your bread.
Step 6: Bake and Cool
Bake in the oven for about 60-65 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once baked, let the loaf cool in the pan for about 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
How to Serve Cream Cheese Banana Bread Recipe
Garnishes
A simple dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey over slices of this banana bread can elevate its visual appeal and add a touch of extra sweetness. Fresh sliced bananas or crushed walnuts on top can also provide wonderful texture and a fresh twist.
Side Dishes
This banana bread pairs deliciously with a hot cup of coffee or tea, balancing the slight tanginess of cream cheese with a warm beverage. For an indulgent brunch, serve it alongside creamy Greek yogurt or fresh fruit for complementary flavors and textures.
Creative Ways to Present
Try cutting the banana bread into small squares and serving it as a party finger food with cream cheese frosting or a dollop of whipped cream. You can also sandwich it with a smear of nut butter or jam for a fun breakfast treat that’s sure to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap the banana bread tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay fresh and moist for up to 3 days—perfect for making ahead and enjoying throughout the week.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this Cream Cheese Banana Bread Recipe later, it freezes beautifully. Wrap the loaf or individual slices in foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. It’s best enjoyed within 2 months for optimal flavor and texture.
Reheating
To warm up leftover banana bread, pop slices in the microwave for about 20 seconds or toast them lightly. The gentle heat awakens the flavors and brings back the soft, moist texture you love.
FAQs
Can I use low-fat cream cheese for this recipe?
You can use low-fat cream cheese, but keep in mind it may result in a slightly less creamy texture. Full-fat cream cheese will give the best richness and flavor.
What if I don’t have sour cream? Can I substitute it?
Yes! Greek yogurt or buttermilk make great substitutes for sour cream and will maintain the moistness and slight tang of the bread.
How ripe should the bananas be?
The riper, the better. Look for bananas with brown spots or those that are almost entirely brown for maximum sweetness and moisture.
Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to this bread?
Absolutely. Chopped walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips can be folded into the batter for added texture and bursts of flavor.
Will this banana bread stay moist without cream cheese?
The cream cheese is what makes this recipe special and extra moist. Without it, the bread will be more traditional and less creamy, but still delicious.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about this Cream Cheese Banana Bread Recipe that keeps me coming back for more, slice after slice. Its creamy layers and tender crumb make it an irresistible treat for any time of day. I encourage you to give this recipe a try—whether you’re an experienced baker or just looking to try something new, this banana bread will quickly become one of your favorites. Happy baking and even happier eating!
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Cream Cheese Banana Bread Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings 1x
Description
Delight in this moist and flavorful Cream Cheese Banana Bread, perfect for breakfast or a comforting snack. This recipe combines ripe bananas and tangy cream cheese swirled into a tender, sweet loaf that’s easy to bake and sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups mashed ripe bananas
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
Cream Cheese Layer
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
Instructions
- 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 to ensure easy removal of the banana bread.
- Mix wet ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the mashed ripe bananas, sour cream, vegetable oil, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until the batter is smooth and thoroughly blended.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening agents and seasoning.
- Mix wet and dry: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet banana mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender.
- Prepare cream cheese layer: Beat the softened cream cheese in a small bowl until smooth and creamy, free of lumps.
- Assemble the bread layers: Pour half of the banana batter into the prepared loaf pan. Dollop the beaten cream cheese evenly over the batter, then pour the remaining banana batter on top. Use a knife or skewer to swirl the cream cheese gently into the batter for a marbled effect.
- Bake: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 55-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the top is golden brown.
- Cool and serve: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving to preserve the texture and enhance flavor.
Notes
- Use very ripe bananas for the best flavor and natural sweetness.
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature to ensure smooth swirling.
- You can add chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the batter for extra texture if desired.
- Store leftover banana bread wrapped tightly at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
