Description

If you love quick breads that are soft, flavorful, and a little indulgent, this Strawberry Cream Cheese Banana Bread is a must-try. Combining the richness of cream cheese with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas and fresh strawberries, it’s perfect for breakfast, a snack, or a sweet treat anytime. The secret to this recipe’s amazing texture and flavor lies in the cream cheese, which adds moisture and a subtle tang, making each slice irresistibly soft. This recipe yields two generous loaves that are perfect for sharing or freezing for later.

Ingredients

3/4 cup butter, softened to room temperature
8 oz. cream cheese, softened to room temperature
1 1/2 cups sugar, plus more for topping
2 large eggs, lightly beaten
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
1 cup overly ripe mashed bananas (approximately 2 medium)
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 cups coarsely chopped fresh strawberries

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
Grease two 8×5-inch loaf pans.
In a large bowl, cream together the butter, cream cheese, and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add eggs, vanilla, and mashed bananas, mixing just until evenly combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until evenly incorporated.
Gently fold in the chopped strawberries.
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared loaf pans.
Sprinkle a little extra sugar on top of each loaf.
Bake for 60 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Cool in the pans for 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Store leftover bread in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.

Notes

Serving Tips:

Slice the bread into thick or thin pieces depending on your preference.
Serve slightly warm for a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Pair with a cup of coffee, tea, or milk for a comforting breakfast or snack.
Spread a little butter, cream cheese, or nut butter on each slice for added indulgence.
Use as a base for dessert toast by topping with fresh fruit or a drizzle of honey.

Storage Tips:

Allow the bread to cool completely before storing to prevent sogginess.
Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store in the refrigerator for up to one week.
For longer storage, freeze the bread in airtight freezer-safe bags for up to three months.
To enjoy frozen bread, thaw at room temperature or warm slices in the microwave or oven before serving.
Avoid leaving the bread at room temperature for more than two days to maintain freshness and prevent spoilage.