Introduction
There’s something utterly comforting about the smell of banana bread wafting through your kitchen. It beckons memories of cozy afternoons and sweet treats shared with loved ones. But what if we took that classic recipe and gave it a delectable twist? Enter Cream Cheese Filled Banana Bread – a luscious blend of rich banana flavor intertwined with a heavenly cream cheese filling. This recipe is a delightful fusion of warm, fluffy bread and the creamy, tangy goodness of cream cheese that will make your taste buds sing with joy! Perfect as a snack or a breakfast treat, this loaf is sure to become a beloved staple in your home.
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
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 grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan to ensure the bread comes out perfectly.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas and melted butter, stirring them together until they are well blended and smooth.
- Mix in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract, continuing to stir until all the ingredients are integrated.
- Sprinkle the baking soda and a pinch of salt over the mixture. Gently fold in the flour, mixing until just combined – be careful not to overwork the batter!
- In a separate bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and the additional 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract until the mixture is beautifully smooth and creamy.
- Pour half of the banana bread batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
- Spoon the luscious cream cheese mixture over the batter, using a spatula to spread it evenly for a delightful filling.
- Carefully top the cream cheese layer with the remaining banana batter, smoothing it out to cover the cream cheese completely.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the top is golden brown.
- Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Allow to cool completely before slicing—if you can resist the temptation!
Notes or Tips
For the best flavor, make sure your bananas are very ripe; the browner, the better! If you want to add a hint of spice, feel free to mix in a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg with your flour. This bread freezes beautifully, so don’t hesitate to make a double batch—simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Cooking Techniques
Creating the perfect banana bread involves a few simple techniques. When mixing the batter, be mindful not to overmix once you add the flour; this can lead to a dense loaf. The gentle folding method keeps your bread light and fluffy. Additionally, check your bread a few minutes before the suggested baking time to avoid overbaking, which can dry out this delicious treat.
FAQ
Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?
Absolutely! Thaw your frozen bananas and drain any excess liquid before mashing them for added convenience.
How long can I store the banana bread?
Keep your banana bread wrapped in plastic or stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for a week or freeze it for up to 3 months.
Conclusion
Now that you have the recipe for Cream Cheese Filled Banana Bread, it’s time to gather your ingredients and embrace the magic of baking! This bread is not only a delicious treat but also a wonderful way to share your love of home-cooked food with family and friends. Whether you enjoy it fresh out of the oven, toasted with a bit of butter, or as a special dessert, each slice promises warmth and a burst of indulgent flavor. Happy baking!