Step-by-Step Instructions
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan to prevent sticking.
For the cream cheese filling, in a medium bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened cream cheese with 1/4 cup sugar, 1 egg, and 2 tablespoons of flour until the mixture is completely smooth.
In a large bowl, mix the mashed bananas with the melted butter. Add in 3/4 cup sugar, 1 egg, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, stirring well combined.
Now, gently fold in 1 1/2 cups of flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Be careful not to overmix—just stir until the dry ingredients are moistened.
Pour about half of the banana batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing it out evenly.
Spoon the cream cheese mixture over the banana batter layer, spreading it gently while leaving a small border around the edges.
Finish by adding the remaining banana batter on top and smooth it out carefully.
Bake this delicious concoction for 50–60 minutes. When a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, you’re ready to go!
Once baked, let your banana bread cool entirely in the pan before slicing and enjoying.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
This Cream Cheese Stuffed Banana Bread can be enjoyed in a multitude of ways! Serve it warm, straight from the oven, alongside your favorite cup of coffee or tea for a delightful treat. For breakfast, enjoy it with a dollop of yogurt or a drizzle of honey on top. It also pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit, like sliced strawberries or blueberries, to brighten your plate.
How to Store & Freeze
To keep your leftovers fresh, make sure to wrap the banana bread tightly in plastic wrap and store it in an airtight container. It can last for about 3–4 days at room temperature. For longer storage, you can freeze it! Just slice it first, wrap each piece, and store them in a freezer-safe bag. Banana bread can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw and reheat in the oven or microwave.
Helpful Cooking Tips
Here are a few tips to ensure your banana bread turns out perfect every time:
- Ensure your bananas are super ripe; the darker the skins, the sweeter they’ll be.
- Don’t rush the blending process; cream cheese must be softened fully to blend well without lumps.
- Avoid overmixing your batter; stir only until the flour disappears to maintain a light texture.
Creative Twists
Feel free to customize this classic recipe! Add chocolate chips or nuts for an extra crunch. You might also swap the cream cheese for a flavored one, like vanilla or whipped cream cheese for a different zest. Alternatively, consider incorporating spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for added warmth, or mix in orange zest for a citrusy hit!
Common Questions
How long does it take to prepare and bake the banana bread?
The total time for making the Cream Cheese Stuffed Banana Bread is around 70–80 minutes, including about 15 minutes of prep time and 50–60 minutes of baking.
Can I use frozen bananas?
Absolutely! Thaw your frozen bananas completely before mashing them and using them in the recipe. They might be mushy, but they still work perfectly in this bread.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Sure thing! Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to achieve similar results.
If you’re looking for an indulgent treat that’s easy to whip up and sure to become a favorite, this Cream Cheese Stuffed Banana Bread is your answer! Enjoy every bite!
