Description
Cream Cheese-Filled Banana Bread Loaf is the ultimate comfort treat that combines the moist sweetness of classic banana bread with a luscious, tangy cream cheese filling. This rich yet balanced loaf is perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack. The creamy surprise in the center takes traditional banana bread to a whole new level, making it a delightful recipe for both casual baking and special occasions. Its soft texture, aromatic banana flavor, and indulgent cream cheese layer create a bakery-style loaf that’s surprisingly easy to make at home.
Ingredients
- 2 to 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/3 cup melted unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for filling)
- 1 egg yolk (for filling)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (for filling)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mash bananas and whisk in granulated sugar, brown sugar, melted butter, oil, eggs, and vanilla until smooth. In another bowl, sift together flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Gently fold dry ingredients into wet mixture until combined.
- In a medium bowl, beat cream cheese with sugar, egg yolk, and vanilla until smooth and creamy. Pour half of the banana batter into prepared loaf pan, spread cream cheese filling over the batter, then top with remaining banana batter. Bake for 55–65 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean. Cool in pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Slice and serve.
Servings
Makes about 10 slices.
Nutritional Info (per serving, approx.)
Calories: 285
Carbohydrates: 39g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 52mg
Sodium: 210mg
Sugar: 23g
Fiber: 2g
Notes
Use very ripe bananas with brown spots for the sweetest flavor. Allow loaf to cool completely before slicing to avoid breaking the cream cheese layer. This bread tastes even better the next day as flavors deepen.
Tips
Add chopped walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips for extra flavor and texture. To prevent overbaking, check at 50 minutes and cover with foil if top browns too quickly. Store leftovers in the refrigerator to keep the cream cheese filling fresh. For a lighter version, substitute part of the butter with applesauce.
Health Benefits
Bananas provide potassium, dietary fiber, and natural sweetness while reducing the need for excessive sugar. Cream cheese offers calcium and protein in moderate amounts. Using cinnamon not only enhances flavor but also adds antioxidants. Homemade banana bread allows you to control the ingredients, making it healthier than store-bought versions.
Q & A
Q: Can I freeze Cream Cheese-Filled Banana Bread Loaf?
A: Yes, wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before serving.
Q: How do I keep my banana bread moist?
A: Avoid overmixing the batter and ensure bananas are ripe enough to release natural moisture.
Q: Can I use whole wheat flour?
A: Yes, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber and nutrition.
Q: How long will it stay fresh?
A: Stored in the refrigerator, it will last up to 5 days, but it tastes best within the first 3 days.