Cream Cheese Banana Bread
Gather these simple ingredients to create your Cream Cheese Banana Bread:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 to 3 ripe bananas, mashed
Directions
Creating this scrumptious Cream Cheese Banana Bread is straightforward. Follow these steps:
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan and set aside.
- Step 2: In a medium bowl, mix the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon until well combined.
- Step 3: In a separate large bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until fluffy.
- Step 4: Add the melted butter to the cream cheese mixture and mix until smooth.
- Step 5: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add the vanilla extract and mashed bananas, mixing until well blended.
- Step 6: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until moistened. Be careful not to overmix.
- Step 7: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth out the top.
- Step 8: Bake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Step 9: Once done, remove from the oven and allow to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
FAQs
1. How do I store Cream Cheese Banana Bread?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
2. Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to the recipe?
Absolutely! You can fold in about 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips into the batter before pouring it into the pan for added flavor and texture.
3. What can I use instead of cream cheese?
If you prefer, you can replace cream cheese with Greek yogurt or sour cream for a different flavor, but keep in mind it may alter the texture slightly.
4. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to create a gluten-free version of this banana bread.
5. Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?
Yes, thawed frozen bananas work fine! Just ensure they are well-mashed before adding them to the batter.
Conclusion
This Cream Cheese Banana Bread merges the delightful flavors of bananas and cream cheese into a moist and satisfying loaf. It’s perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. Quick and easy to make, it’s an excellent way to use up ripe bananas while indulging in a delicious treat that your family and friends will love. Try it today, and enjoy a bite of this delightful twist on a classic favorite!
