Home-Baked Banana Bread with Cream Cheese Filling
Here’s what you will need to make this delicious home-baked banana bread with cream cheese filling:
- 12 ounces cream cheese (room temperature)
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar (for filling)
- 1 large egg (room temperature, for filling)
- 1/4 cup full-fat sour cream (room temperature, for filling)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 1 cup granulated sugar (for banana bread)
- 2 large eggs (room temperature, for banana bread)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 1/4 cups mashed overripe banana (about 2-3 medium-large bananas)
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 cup full-fat sour cream (for banana bread)
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (for topping)
Directions
Follow these simple steps to create your home-baked banana bread:
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Spray a 9×5 inch loaf pan with nonstick spray, then line with parchment paper and set aside.
- Step 2: In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, 1/3 cup sugar, 1 large egg, and 1/4 cup sour cream. Mix until smooth to prepare the filling.
- Step 3: In a separate bowl, cream the unsalted butter and 1 cup granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Step 4: Add 2 large eggs one at a time, mixing after each addition. Then mix in the vanilla extract and mashed bananas.
- Step 5: In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Step 6: Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, alternating with the 1/2 cup of sour cream until just combined.
- Step 7: Pour half of the banana bread batter into the prepared loaf pan.
- Step 8: Carefully spread the cream cheese filling over the banana batter, then top with the remaining banana bread batter.
- Step 9: Sprinkle the tablespoon of sugar evenly on top.
- Step 10: Bake for about 60-70 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Step 11: Allow to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen bananas?
Yes, just thaw them and drain any excess liquid. They should be very ripe for the best flavor.
2. How should I store leftover banana bread?
Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. You can also freeze it for longer storage.
3. Can I substitute low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, but keep in mind the texture and flavor may vary slightly. Full-fat cream cheese yields the richest flavor.
4. Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to this recipe?
Absolutely! Adding 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or chocolate chips is a great way to enhance the flavor.
5. How do I know when the banana bread is done baking?
Insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, it’s ready!
Conclusion
This home-baked banana bread with cream cheese filling is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or toasted with a pat of butter, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your home. Perfect for any meal or snack, indulge in this sweet and creamy treat today!
