Here’s a delicious recipe for Cream Cheese Banana Bread with a rich, creamy swirl. This recipe combines the classic sweetness of banana bread with the tangy creaminess of cream cheese, creating a moist, flavorful loaf that’s perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a midday treat. The cream cheese layer gives a delightful contrast to the banana flavor and adds extra moistness.
Ingredients:
For the Banana Bread Batter:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2-3 bananas)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Cream Cheese Layer:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
- Prepare the Banana Bread Batter:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the mashed bananas and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer:
- In another bowl, beat together the cream cheese, sugar, egg, and vanilla until smooth.
- Assemble the Loaf:
- Pour half of the banana bread batter into the prepared loaf pan.
- Spoon the cream cheese mixture over the batter layer and spread it evenly.
- Pour the remaining banana bread batter over the cream cheese layer, smoothing the top.
- Bake:
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil during the last 15 minutes of baking.
- Cool and Serve:
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!
This bread stays moist and flavorful for several days and is perfect for sharing.
