Description
Enjoy a moist and flavorful Banana Bread with Cream Cheese, blending ripe bananas and creamy richness. This easy recipe is perfect for breakfast or a snack, making it a delightful family favorite!
Ingredients
Scale
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients and tools: mixing bowl, whisk, spatula, and loaf pan. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese and butter. Beat until smooth and creamy.
- Add granulated sugar to the mixture and beat until well combined and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
- Crack eggs into a small bowl, then add them one at a time to the mixture, beating well after each addition.
- Stir in the mashed bananas and vanilla extract gently with a spatula until combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon (if using).
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture in three parts, folding gently with a spatula after each addition. Avoid overmixing.
- If using nuts, fold them in at this stage.
- Grease your loaf pan with butter or non-stick spray, or line the bottom with parchment paper.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes. Check for doneness at the 60-minute mark by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- Once baked, remove from the oven and let cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes.
- Carefully turn the loaf out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
- Slice the banana bread into thick or thin slices, about 1-inch thick.
- For an extra treat, spread a little cream cheese on top of each slice.
- Optionally, sprinkle with additional cinnamon or nuts for added flavor.
Notes
- Ensure bananas are very ripe for the best flavor.
- You can substitute the nuts with chocolate chips for a sweeter variation.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60-70 minutes