Cream Cheese Banana Bread

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 4 ripe bananas, mashed (about 1 1/2 cups)
• 1/4 cup sour cream

For the cream cheese filling:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions:

Preheat the oven:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.

Mix the dry ingredients:

• In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

Prepare the banana bread batter:

1. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and 3/4 cup of granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then mix in the vanilla extract.
3. Incorporate Bananas and Sour Cream: Stir in the mashed bananas and sour cream until well combined.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, mixing until just combined.

Prepare the cream cheese filling:

• In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and 1/4 cup of granulated sugar until smooth.
• Add the egg and vanilla extract, and beat until well combined and creamy.

Assemble the bread:

1. Layering: Pour half of the banana bread batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it out evenly.
2. Add Cream Cheese Filling: Carefully spread the cream cheese filling over the batter.
3. Top with Remaining Batter: Pour the remaining banana bread batter over the cream cheese layer, spreading it out evenly.

Bake the bread:

• Bake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean. If the top starts to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil.

Cool the bread:

• Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Nutritional Information:

• Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 60-70 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Calories: Approximately 300 kcal per slice (based on 10 slices) | Servings: 10 servings

Serving and Storage Tips :

Serving Tips:

1. Fresh Fruit Accompaniment: Serve slices of Cream Cheese Banana Bread with fresh berries or sliced bananas on the side for a refreshing contrast of flavors.
2. Warm Slices: For a comforting treat, warm individual slices of banana bread in the microwave for a few seconds before serving. This enhances the aroma and softens the cream cheese filling.
3. Cream Cheese Drizzle: For an extra touch of indulgence, drizzle a simple cream cheese glaze over cooled slices of banana bread. To make the glaze, mix softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and a splash of milk until smooth and pourable.
4. Pair with Coffee or Tea: Enjoy slices of banana bread with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a delightful breakfast or afternoon snack.

Storage Tips:

1. Room Temperature: Store the banana bread at room temperature in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 2 days. This helps maintain its moisture and freshness.
2. Refrigeration: For longer storage, especially in warmer climates, store the banana bread in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Allow it to come to room temperature or gently warm before serving.
3. Freezing: Banana bread freezes well. Wrap individual slices or the entire loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or place in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw slices in the refrigerator or at room temperature before enjoying.
4. Pre-sliced Convenience: To make grabbing a slice easier, consider pre-slicing the banana bread before storing. This way, you can take out and thaw only the slices you need.

By following these serving and storage tips, you can ensure that your Cream Cheese Banana Bread stays delicious and fresh, whether you enjoy it freshly baked or after storing for later indulgence.

Variations :

1. Chocolate Chip Banana Bread:
   • Add 1/2 to 1 cup of chocolate chips to the banana bread batter for a delightful chocolatey twist. The chocolate complements the creamy cream cheese filling beautifully.
2. Nutty Crunch:
   • Fold in 1/2 cup of chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans into the banana bread batter. The nuts add a satisfying crunch and extra flavor.
3. Berry Bliss:
   • Gently fold in 1 cup of fresh berries like blueberries or raspberries into the banana bread batter before baking. The burst of fruity flavor pairs wonderfully with the cream cheese filling.
4. Coconut Cream Cheese Banana Bread:
   • Add 1/2 cup of shredded coconut to the banana bread batter and swirl in some coconut cream cheese filling. This tropical twist adds a hint of exotic flavor.
5. Maple Glazed Banana Bread:
   • After baking, brush the top of the banana bread with a maple syrup glaze made from maple syrup and a touch of butter. The sweet glaze enhances the flavors and adds a glossy finish.
6. Pumpkin Spice Banana Bread:
   • Replace some of the mashed bananas with canned pumpkin puree and add a teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice to the batter. This seasonal variation brings warm, comforting flavors to the bread.
7. Lemon Cream Cheese Banana Bread:
   • Add 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon zest to the banana bread batter and prepare a lemon-flavored cream cheese filling. The citrusy tang brightens up the flavors of the bread.
8. Swirls of Cinnamon Sugar:
   • Create a cinnamon sugar swirl by layering the banana bread batter with a mixture of cinnamon and sugar. This adds a sweet, spiced dimension to each bite.
9. Greek Yogurt Banana Bread:
   • Substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt in the banana bread batter for a lighter texture. The tanginess of yogurt complements the richness of the cream cheese filling.
10. Oat Streusel Topping:
    • Sprinkle a generous layer of oat streusel topping over the cream cheese layer before baking. Combine oats, brown sugar, and butter for a crunchy, sweet topping.

FAQs :

1. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
   • Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour in this recipe. Keep in mind that the texture may be slightly denser compared to using all-purpose flour.
2. How do I know when the banana bread is done baking?
   • Insert a toothpick into the center of the bread. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached, the banana bread is done. Avoid overbaking to keep it moist.
3. Can I reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe?
   • Yes, you can adjust the amount of sugar to your taste preferences. However, keep in mind that sugar adds moisture and sweetness to the bread, so reducing it too much may affect the texture.
4. What can I use instead of sour cream?
   • Greek yogurt is a good substitute for sour cream in baking. It provides a similar tanginess and moisture to the banana bread.
5. Can I make this banana bread ahead of time?
   • Yes, banana bread actually tastes even better the next day. You can bake it, cool it completely, and store it in an airtight container at room temperature overnight before serving.
6. How should I store leftover banana bread?
   • Store leftover banana bread in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to 1 week.
7. Can I freeze banana bread?
   • Yes, banana bread freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
8. Why does my banana bread sink in the middle?
   • Overmixing the batter or opening the oven door too often while baking can cause the bread to sink. Also, ensure your baking soda is fresh and not expired.
9. Can I add other mix-ins to the banana bread batter?
   • Yes, you can add chocolate chips, nuts, dried fruits, or even seeds like chia or flaxseed to the batter for added texture and flavor.
10. How can I prevent the cream cheese filling from sinking?
    • To prevent the cream cheese filling from sinking to the bottom, make sure the cream cheese mixture is spread evenly over the first layer of batter and gently swirl it into the batter with a knife or spatula.

Indulge in the irresistible combination of creamy, tangy cream cheese filling nestled within moist banana bread. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a comforting snack, this Cream Cheese Banana Bread recipe will surely become a household favorite. Enjoy the rich flavors and moist texture that make every bite a delightful experience!