Cream Cheese Banana Bread

Cream cheese banana bread is the ultimate fusion of creamy richness and fruity sweetness. Ripe bananas add moisture and flavor, while a layer of cream cheese provides a velvety surprise inside. It’s the perfect treat for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert.

This recipe is easy to follow and gives bakery-style results right at home. Using pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients, you’ll have a tender, flavorful loaf in under an hour. It’s perfect for using up overripe bananas and will quickly become a family favorite.

Whether served warm with coffee or packed for a snack, cream cheese banana bread brings comfort and indulgence in every bite.

Ingredients List

– 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– ½ teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
– ¾ cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 3 medium ripe bananas, mashed
– ½ cup sour cream
– 4 oz cream cheese, softened
– ¼ cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 1 egg yolk
– ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Set aside.

Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each. Mix in vanilla, mashed bananas, and sour cream until fully combined.

Step 4: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, mixing just until combined. Do not overmix. Set the batter aside.

Step 5: In a separate bowl, prepare the cream cheese filling by combining the cream cheese, granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon flour, egg yolk, and ½ teaspoon vanilla extract. Beat until smooth and creamy.

Step 6: Pour half of the banana batter into the prepared loaf pan. Spoon the cream cheese mixture over the batter and spread gently. Pour the remaining banana batter over the top and smooth the surface.

Step 7: Bake for 55–65 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean (some cream cheese on the toothpick is okay, but no wet batter). Tent with foil halfway if the top is browning too quickly.

Step 8: Remove from oven and let cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes. Then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Cook Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Servings

Makes 1 loaf (8–10 slices)

Nutritional Information (approx. per slice)

Calories: 290
Carbs: 36g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 14g

Storage Instructions

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Refrigerate for up to 5 days for longer freshness.
Freeze individual slices or the whole loaf for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature or reheat gently.

Pairings/Suggestions

Delicious with a cup of coffee, chai tea, or a glass of cold milk.
Pairs well with fresh berries, a dollop of whipped cream, or a drizzle of honey.
Great addition to breakfast boards or served warm as dessert with ice cream.

Seasonal Relevance

Ideal for fall and winter baking, especially when ripe bananas are in abundance.
A cozy option for holiday brunches, gift-giving, or cold-weather comfort baking.
Also perfect year-round as a make-ahead snack or lunchbox treat.

Health Benefits

Bananas provide potassium, fiber, and natural sweetness, making this bread more nutritious than many other treats.
Using sour cream adds moisture while reducing the need for excess fat.
Cream cheese adds calcium and protein in small amounts.
Choosing whole wheat flour or reducing added sugar can increase its nutritional value further without compromising taste.

Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Easy to make with basic ingredients	Needs time to cool before slicing
Moist and rich texture	Slightly higher in calories
Kid-friendly and freezer-friendly	Cream cheese layer may sink if not done carefully
Great use of ripe bananas	Not suitable for dairy-free diets without substitutions

Conclusion

Cream cheese banana bread is a delicious twist on the classic banana loaf, combining the rich tang of cream cheese with the comforting flavor of bananas. It’s a recipe that delivers both in taste and texture, making it a go-to option for any time of day.

From preparation to final slice, this loaf is simple to create yet impressive to serve. Whether you’re baking for loved ones, prepping breakfasts, or satisfying your sweet tooth, this cream cheese banana bread is sure to be a crowd-pleaser you’ll return to again and again.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, but full-fat cream cheese provides the best texture. Low-fat works but may be slightly thinner.

Q2: Can I make this banana bread without sour cream?
Yes. You can substitute plain Greek yogurt or buttermilk in equal amounts for similar results.

Q3: How can I keep the cream cheese layer from sinking?
Make sure the cream cheese filling is thick and spoon it carefully over the base batter without pressing it down. Don’t overmix.

Q4: Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?
Absolutely! Chopped walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips can be folded into the banana batter for added flavor and texture.

Q5: Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Yes. Slice and wrap the bread tightly, then store in a freezer bag or container. Thaw at room temperature or microwave gently.