Ultimate Cream Cheese Banana Bread Recipe
Looking for the perfect moist, rich, and flavorful banana bread? This Ultimate Cream Cheese Banana Bread takes a classic favorite to the next level! With a deliciously creamy swirl of sweetened cream cheese in every bite, this bread is soft, tender, and absolutely irresistible. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon treat, this recipe will quickly become a household favorite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ultra Moist Texture – The combination of ripe bananas and cream cheese creates a soft, rich crumb.
- Decadent Cream Cheese Swirl – Adds a creamy, tangy contrast to the sweet banana flavor.
- Easy to Make – Simple ingredients come together for a bakery-quality result.
- Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert!
Ingredients for Ultimate Cream Cheese Banana Bread
For the Banana Bread:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional, but recommended)
- 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
For the Cream Cheese Swirl:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
How to Make Ultimate Cream Cheese Banana Bread
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Loaf Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Make the Banana Bread Batter
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. In a separate large bowl, mix the mashed bananas, sugar, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and Greek yogurt until smooth. Gradually fold in the dry ingredients until just combined. Do not overmix.
Step 3: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling
In another bowl, beat the cream cheese, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Layer the Batter and Cream Cheese
Pour half of the banana bread batter into the loaf pan. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the batter. Top with the remaining banana bread batter, spreading it carefully to cover the cream cheese.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. If the top starts browning too quickly, tent with foil during the last 15 minutes.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Let the banana bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Serving Suggestions
- Enjoy warm with a pat of butter.
- Pair with a hot cup of coffee for the ultimate morning treat.
- Drizzle with honey or maple syrup for extra sweetness.
- Top with chopped nuts for a crunchy contrast.
Storage & Reheating Tips
- Storing: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Wrap slices individually in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
- Reheating: Warm in the microwave for 15-20 seconds for a fresh-from-the-oven taste.
Final Thoughts
This Ultimate Cream Cheese Banana Bread is rich, moist, and bursting with flavor. The tangy cream cheese swirl perfectly balances the natural sweetness of ripe bananas, making every bite truly delightful. Whether you serve it for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, this banana bread is guaranteed to impress!
