Cream Cheese Banana Bread is a delightful twist on the classic banana bread that elevates this beloved treat to a new level of richness and flavor. This recipe incorporates creamy, tangy cream cheese into the batter, resulting in a moist, tender loaf that is perfect for breakfast, a snack, or dessert. The combination of ripe bananas and cream cheese creates a deliciously sweet and savory flavor that will have everyone reaching for another slice.
Whether you’re looking to use up overripe bananas or simply want to indulge in a delicious homemade treat, this Cream Cheese Banana Bread is sure to become a favorite in your household. Let’s dive into how to make this irresistible loaf!
Ingredients:
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- Optional: 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans, chocolate chips, or dried fruit
Preparation:
Step 1:
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.
Step 2:
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. You can use an electric mixer or a whisk for this step.
Step 3:
Add the granulated sugar and brown sugar to the cream cheese mixture. Beat until well combined and fluffy.
Step 4:
In a separate bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing well to combine.
Step 5:
Gradually add the banana mixture to the cream cheese mixture, stirring until just combined.
Step 6:
In another bowl, whisk together the baking soda, baking powder, salt, and flour. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense bread.
Step 7:
If desired, fold in the chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit.
Step 8:
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
Step 9:
Bake in the preheated oven for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top starts to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil.
Step 10:
Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Variation
- Chocolate Chip Banana Bread: Add 1 cup of chocolate chips to the batter for a sweet and indulgent treat.
- Nutty Banana Bread: Fold in 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
- Spiced Banana Bread: Add 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a warm, spiced flavor.
COOKING Note:
- Make sure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature to ensure it blends smoothly into the batter.
- The riper the bananas, the better! Look for bananas with brown spots for maximum flavor and sweetness.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve slices of Cream Cheese Banana Bread warm with a pat of butter or cream cheese spread for an extra indulgence.
- Pair it with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful breakfast or afternoon snack.
- This banana bread also makes a fantastic dessert when served with vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
Tips:
- Leftover banana bread can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- For longer storage, you can freeze the bread. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and it can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Nutritional Information (approximate per slice, makes about 10 slices):
- Calories: 210
- Protein: 3g
- Sodium: 150mg
FAQs
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure to check the flour blend’s instructions for the best results.
What can I do with leftover ripe bananas?
If you have more ripe bananas, consider making banana pancakes, smoothies, or banana muffins!
Can I substitute cream cheese?
You can use Greek yogurt or sour cream as a substitute for cream cheese, but it will alter the flavor and texture slightly.
How can I tell when the banana bread is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, the bread is done.
Conclusion
This Cream Cheese Banana Bread is a deliciously moist and flavorful treat that brings a new twist to traditional banana bread. The creamy texture from the cream cheese makes each slice indulgent and satisfying. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a snack, this banana bread is sure to please everyone.
Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy the delightful taste of homemade banana bread that’s sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire!