Name: Cream Cheese Banana Bread
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 85 min
Ingredients: 1 stick unsalted butter (melted); 1 cup all purpose flour; 1 tsp baking soda; 1/4 tsp salt; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup whole milk; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 large egg; 1 large egg yolk; 3 bananas (mashed); 1/2 cup chopped walnuts; 1 large egg; 4 oz cream cheese (softened); 2 tbsp granulated sugar; 2 tbsp all purpose flour

Introduction to Cream Cheese Banana Bread

Every busy young professional knows how precious time can be, especially when juggling work deadlines, social commitments, and, let's face it, a bit of self-care. Enter cream cheese banana bread — a delightful solution that not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also makes your kitchen smell heavenly!

Imagine coming home after a long day and indulging in a slice of warm, moist banana bread, enriched with creamy cream cheese. The added creaminess not only elevates the flavor but also adds a texture that keeps your taste buds dancing. According to the USDA, bananas are packed with potassium and vitamin B6, making this treat not just delicious but also a healthier option compared to typical desserts.

This recipe is perfect for meal prepping on weekends. You can whip up a loaf in no time, allowing you to enjoy a homemade snack throughout the week. Slices are easy to grab on your way out the door or to share during those midweek meetings. You might just find that this cream cheese banana bread becomes your new guilty pleasure — but don’t worry, we won’t tell anyone!

For a supportive community of fellow food lovers, check out The Kitchn or Food Network for more tips and recipe inspiration.

Ingredients for Cream Cheese Banana Bread

When it comes to cream cheese banana bread, the right ingredients make all the difference. Let’s break them down into two categories: the essentials for the bread and the delightful elements for the cream cheese filling.

Essential ingredients for the banana bread

To achieve that perfect, moist loaf, gather these basic yet crucial ingredients:

1 stick unsalted butter, melted
1 cup all-purpose flour: A must for structure.
1 teaspoon baking soda: This will give your bread the necessary rise.
¼ teaspoon salt: Don't skip this; it enhances flavor!
¾ cup granulated sugar: Sweetness is key.
¼ cup whole milk: For creaminess.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds depth to the flavor.
1 large egg + 1 egg yolk: For moisture and richness.
3 ripe bananas: The star of the show!
½ cup chopped walnuts (optional): For extra crunch.

Additional ingredients for the cream cheese filling

Now for the icing on the cake—or rather, the swirl in your cream cheese banana bread! You’ll need:

1 large egg: This binds the mixture.
4 oz cream cheese, softened: The creamy centerpiece.
2 tablespoon granulated sugar: A touch of sweetness to balance the tang of the cheese.
2 tablespoon all-purpose flour: Helps stabilize the filling.

Feeling inspired? With these ingredients at your fingertips, you're just a few steps away from creating a delicious treat that’s bound to impress! For more tips on banana varieties, check out This Guide on Choosing Bananas.

Step-by-Step Preparation of Cream Cheese Banana Bread

Making cream cheese banana bread is a delightful experience that fills your kitchen with comforting aromas, making it a perfect treat for both cozy weekends and busy weekdays. Here’s how to create a loaf that’s moist, delicious, and ready to impress your friends and family.

Preheat the oven and prepare your loaf pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it's warming up, grab a 9x5 inch loaf pan and give it a good spray with non-stick cooking spray. This step is crucial, as it ensures that your flavorful banana bread doesn’t stick to the sides and comes out perfectly every time.

Mix the dry ingredients for the bread

In a small bowl, whisk together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and ¼ teaspoon of salt. These ingredients work in harmony to create the perfect rise and texture for your cream cheese banana bread. Setting this mixture aside will allow it to incorporate into the wet ingredients smoothly later.

Combine the wet ingredients

In a larger mixing bowl, combine ¾ cup of granulated sugar, the melted 1 stick of unsalted butter, ¼ cup of whole milk, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and one large egg along with one egg yolk. Mix everything until the mixture is well blended. The eggs provide moisture and richness, while the sugar complements the bananas beautifully.

Mash the bananas and fold them in

Take three ripe bananas and mash them in a separate bowl until smooth. The key to good banana bread is using ripe bananas—they should be speckled and soft. Fold the mashed bananas into your wet mixture until well combined. This is where the magic begins, as the bananas add natural sweetness and moisture to the batter.

Prepare the cream cheese filling

For the filling, in a small bowl, cream together 4 ounces of softened cream cheese, 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, and 1 large egg. This creamy mixture will be dolloped within the batter, adding a delightful surprise of flavor and texture to your cream cheese banana bread.

Layer the batter and filling in the pan

Pour half of your banana bread batter into the prepared pan. Next, spoon the cream cheese filling evenly across the batter. Finally, add the remaining banana bread batter on top, ensuring a delightful filling of cream cheese awaits in the middle. If you're a fan of crunch, sprinkle ½ cup of chopped walnuts atop the final layer for that added texture.

Bake and cool the banana bread

Bake your delightful creation for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once it's golden brown and enticing, let it cool for about 10 minutes in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice up your cream cheese banana bread and enjoy the fruits of your labor with family or friends—you’ve certainly earned it!

This creative twist on a classic recipe is sure to become a staple in your home. Happy baking!

For further details on banana bread history, you can check sources like BBC Good Food or Food Network.

Variations on Cream Cheese Banana Bread

Adding chocolate chips for a sweeter twist

For those with a sweet tooth, adding chocolate chips to your cream cheese banana bread is a delightful option. Just fold in about 1 cup of semisweet or dark chocolate chips into the batter before pouring it into the loaf pan. This addition not only enhances the flavor but also creates a lovely contrast with the creamy filling. If you prefer a healthier twist, consider using dark chocolate chips, which offer antioxidants—check out this resource on the benefits of dark chocolate for more details!

Swapping walnuts for pecans or almonds

If you're not a fan of walnuts, feel free to swap them for pecans or almonds for a different flavor profile. Pecan pieces lend a buttery richness, while almonds offer a nice crunch. Toasting the nuts beforehand can intensify their flavor, adding another layer of enjoyment to your cream cheese banana bread. Plus, both options are great sources of healthy fats and protein. Who knew you could get so much variety from one recipe? Your taste buds will thank you!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Cream Cheese Banana Bread

Tips for achieving the perfect texture

To get that irresistible moist texture in your cream cheese banana bread, make sure your bananas are very ripe—brown spots are perfect! Also, avoid over-mixing your batter, as this can lead to a dense loaf. Mixing just until combined gives you a delightful crumb.

Common mistakes to avoid

One common pitfall is not paying attention to your oven’s temperature. Use an oven thermometer to ensure it’s accurate; you want perfect baking! Also, resist the urge to open the oven door too early, as this can cause your loaf to sink. Lastly, be mindful of your ingredient measurements; using too much flour can dry out your bread.

For additional baking tips, check out resources like the Joy of Baking or King Arthur Baking.

Serving Suggestions for Cream Cheese Banana Bread

Enjoying with Coffee or Tea

There’s something undeniably soothing about enjoying a slice of cream cheese banana bread with a hot cup of coffee or tea. The subtle tang of cream cheese pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of your favorite brew, making for a delightful morning boost or an indulgent afternoon snack. If you're a tea enthusiast, consider pairing it with a lightly brewed chai or a calming herbal infusion. It’s the perfect way to elevate your daily routine!

Serving it Warm with Butter or Honey

Serving cream cheese banana bread warm is an experience worth savoring. Slather a bit of butter on a warm slice for a comforting treat or drizzle some honey on top for a touch of sweetness. Both options enhance the moist, rich texture of the bread, creating a delightful contrast. It’s a simple pleasure, reminiscent of cozy family gatherings. Feel free to experiment; you could even add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra flavor kick!

For ideas on what to pair it with, check out Bon Appétit’s breakfast guides for inspiration!

Time Breakdown for Cream Cheese Banana Bread

Preparation Time

Getting ready to make your cream cheese banana bread takes about 15 minutes. This includes gathering your ingredients, measuring everything out, and mixing the batter. You’ll be amazed at how quickly everything comes together!

Baking Time

Once your batter is in the oven, it typically bakes for 50 to 60 minutes. Keep an eye on it—every oven is a little different, and we want that perfect golden brown finish!

Total Time

In total, you're looking at about 1 hour and 15 minutes, including prep and bake time. This delightful bread is well worth the wait and makes your kitchen smell heavenly! Don’t forget to let it cool before slicing; it tastes even better that way.

For more baking tips and transportation methods for your cream cheese banana bread, check out The Kitchn and Sally's Baking Addiction!

Nutritional Facts for Cream Cheese Banana Bread

Calories

Each slice of cream cheese banana bread provides approximately 190-210 calories, making it a delightful yet indulgent treat. Perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack, it's essential to savor it Mindfully!

Sugar Content

Containing about 10-12 grams of sugar per slice, this banana bread balances sweetness with the natural flavors of ripe bananas. If you're trying to cut sugar, consider reducing the granulated sugar slightly without compromising the taste.

Protein

With around 3 grams of protein in each serving, cream cheese banana bread isn't just delicious—it's also a source of energy to fuel your day. Adding nuts, like walnuts, can boost the protein content even more while providing those beneficial Omega-3 fatty acids.

For further reading on nutritional benefits, check out this Nutritional Guide. Enjoy your baking journey!

FAQs about Cream Cheese Banana Bread

How do I store leftover banana bread?
To keep your delicious cream cheese banana bread fresh, wrap it in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you notice it getting too soft, try refrigerating it, but be mindful that refrigeration can dry it out.

Can I freeze cream cheese banana bread?
Absolutely! Freezing is a great way to extend the life of your banana bread. Once completely cooled, wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply let it thaw at room temperature or pop it in the microwave for a quick heat-up!

What can I substitute for eggs?
If you need an egg substitute for your cream cheese banana bread, consider using ¼ cup of unsweetened applesauce, a mashed banana, or a flax egg (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons of water). These alternatives will keep your bread moist and delicious while accommodating various dietary needs.

For more baking tips, check out resources from the Whole Grains Council or The Kitchn for creative substitutions!

Conclusion on Cream Cheese Banana Bread

Final thoughts and encouragement to try this recipe

Cream cheese banana bread is an absolute delight that combines the rich flavors of ripe bananas and creamy cheese into a moist, satisfying treat. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe—it’s easy to make and sure to impress friends and family alike! Grab your overripe bananas and indulge yourself in this cozy baking adventure!