Introduction
Get ready to fall in love with this delightful Cream Cheese Filled Banana Bread! This homemade treat brings together the natural sweetness of ripe bananas and the rich, velvety texture of cream cheese for a truly unforgettable experience. Whether you’re enjoying it for breakfast, dessert, or a cozy afternoon snack, this banana bread is sure to warm your heart and delight your taste buds. Let’s dive into the ingredients and make this delicious loaf together!
Ingredients
- 2 to 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for filling)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 1 loaf
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously grease a loaf pan to prevent sticking.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas with the melted butter, stirring until well incorporated and fragrant.
- Sprinkle in the baking soda and a pinch of salt, mixing until combined.
- Add the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract to the banana mixture, stirring to blend all the flavors together.
- Gradually fold in the flour, being careful not to overmix; you want just a hint of lumps for that perfect texture.
- In a separate bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and an additional teaspoon of vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Pour half of the banana bread batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it out evenly.
- Carefully spread the luscious cream cheese filling over the banana batter, ensuring it covers the surface.
- Top with the remaining banana bread batter, gently smoothing it out to seal the filling inside.
- Bake in your preheated oven for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Your kitchen will be filled with an irresistible aroma!
- Once done, allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes or Tips
For the best results, use overripe bananas as they provide maximum sweetness and moisture. If you prefer a nutty flavor, feel free to add a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans into the banana batter. This bread can also be stored at room temperature for a couple of days, or wrapped tightly and frozen for longer storage — if you can resist the temptation!
Cooking Techniques
When mixing the batter, be mindful not to overmix, as this can lead to a denser loaf. A perfectly mixed batter should still have a few lumps; it’s the key to achieving that fluffy yet moist texture that everyone loves. For the filling, ensure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature to make it easy to blend smoothly.
FAQ
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour, but keep in mind that the texture may be denser.
How can I tell when the banana bread is done?
The best way to check is by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, it’s ready to come out of the oven.
Conclusion
This Cream Cheese Filled Banana Bread is more than just a recipe; it’s a warm hug in loaf form. The combination of sweet bananas and creamy filling makes each slice a decadent treat, perfect for sharing (or keeping all to yourself!). Whip up this loaf today, and savor the joy it brings to your kitchen and your heart!