Are you ready to elevate your banana bread game? This cream cheese banana bread is not just your ordinary loaf; it’s a deliciously moist treat that combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the rich tanginess of cream cheese. Perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or even dessert, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite. Follow along to create a scrumptious bread that’s sure to impress!
Ingredients
– 3 ripe bananas, mashed
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields about 8 slices of cream cheese banana bread. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and baking time is around 60 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (1 slice): Calories: 200, Total Fat: 8g, Saturated Fat: 4g, Cholesterol: 40mg, Sodium: 150mg, Total Carbohydrates: 28g, Dietary Fiber: 1g, Sugars: 12g, Protein: 3g. This nutritional information is for one slice of the bread.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas and softened cream cheese.
3. Mix in the sugar and brown sugar until well blended.
4. Add the melted butter and mix until combined.
5. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
6. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
7. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture and stir until just combined.
8. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
9. Bake for 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
10. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute the cream cheese with Greek yogurt for a lighter option. Additionally, using honey instead of sugar can add a unique flavor while reducing refined sugars.
Serving and Pairings
This cream cheese banana bread pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. For an added treat, serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a smear of butter.
Storage and Reheating
Store the banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using underripe bananas may result in less sweetness.
- Overmixing the batter can lead to a tough texture.
- Not greasing the pan properly may cause sticking.
- Skipping the cooling step can make the bread fall apart.
- Using cold cream cheese instead of softened can affect texture.
Helpful Tips
- Always use ripe bananas for the best flavor.
- Let the bread cool completely before slicing.
- Consider adding nuts or chocolate chips for extra flavor.
- For a twist, add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the batter.
FAQs
Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?
Yes, frozen bananas can be used. Just thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before mashing.
How do I know when the banana bread is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, the bread is done. If it has batter on it, continue baking.
Can I make mini loaves instead?
Absolutely! Adjust the baking time to around 30-40 minutes for mini loaves.
What should I do if my banana bread is too moist?
If your bread is too moist, try adding a bit more flour or baking it a little longer. Make sure your bananas aren’t overly ripe.
Is this bread suitable for freezing?
Yes, this banana bread freezes well. Wrap it tightly and store for up to 3 months for best quality.
Conclusion
Cream cheese banana bread is a delightful twist on a classic recipe, combining moist banana flavor with rich creaminess. Perfect for any occasion, this bread is sure to be a hit. Enjoy every slice with your favorite beverage and share it with loved ones!
Cream Cheese Banana Bread
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas mashed
- 1/2 cup cream cheese softened
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas and softened cream cheese.
- Mix in the sugar and brown sugar until well blended.
- Add the melted butter and mix until combined.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture and stir until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
- Bake for 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
