Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Super Moist – Thanks to sour cream and ripe bananas, this bread stays soft and tender.
- Delicious Cream Cheese Swirl – A creamy layer of cream cheese adds a tangy contrast to the sweet banana flavor.
- Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and easy steps make this a great recipe for beginners.
- Perfect for Any Occasion – Enjoy it as a snack, breakfast treat, or dessert.
- Great Way to Use Ripe Bananas – No more wasted bananas—turn them into something delicious!
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Mashed ripe bananas
- Sour cream
- Vegetable oil
- Sugar
- Large eggs
- Vanilla extract
- All-purpose flour
- Baking soda
- Salt
- Cream cheese, softened
Directions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, sour cream, vegetable oil, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until well blended.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, stirring until just combined.
- In another bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth.
- Pour half of the banana batter into the prepared loaf pan. Spread the cream cheese over the batter, then top with the remaining batter.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 75 minutes
- Servings: 10
Variations
- Nutty Crunch: Add ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for extra texture.
- Chocolate Twist: Fold in ½ cup of chocolate chips for a richer flavor.
- Cinnamon Spice: Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon to the dry ingredients for a warm spice flavor.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour substitute.
- Healthier Alternative: Swap sugar for coconut sugar or use a sugar substitute.
Storage/Reheating
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Refrigerator: Keep in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Wrap slices individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Warm in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or toast for a slight crunch.
FAQs
How do I know when my banana bread is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf—if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, it’s ready.
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
Yes! Greek yogurt is a great substitute and will keep the bread moist.
What’s the best way to mash bananas?
Use a fork, potato masher, or hand mixer to mash bananas until smooth.
Can I make this into muffins?
Yes! Pour batter into muffin tins and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 18-22 minutes.
How do I prevent my banana bread from sinking in the middle?
Make sure not to overmix the batter, and check that your baking soda is fresh.
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, but the texture may be denser. Try using half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour.
Should I refrigerate banana bread with cream cheese?
Yes, since it contains cream cheese, storing it in the fridge helps keep it fresh longer.
Can I add a streusel topping?
Absolutely! Mix butter, flour, sugar, and cinnamon for a crunchy topping.
Why is my banana bread dry?
Overbaking or using too much flour can make it dry. Measure ingredients accurately and check doneness early.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes! Simply double all ingredients and bake in two loaf pans.
Conclusion
Cream Cheese Banana Bread is the ultimate combination of moist banana bread and creamy, tangy goodness. Whether you’re making it for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, this bread is sure to become a favorite. With simple ingredients and easy steps, it’s perfect for bakers of all levels. Try out different variations and enjoy a slice with your favorite coffee or tea!
Cream Cheese Banana Bread
This Cream Cheese Banana Bread is a moist, rich, and delicious twist on classic banana bread! With a luscious cream cheese layer, this homemade sweet bread is perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a snack. Made with ripe bananas, sour cream, and a hint of vanilla, it’s incredibly soft and flavorful. A must-try recipe for banana lovers!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 75 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Dessert, Breakfast, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups mashed ripe bananas (about 3 bananas)
- ½ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, mix mashed bananas, sour cream, oil, sugar, eggs, and vanilla until well combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually mix into the wet ingredients until fully incorporated.
- Beat cream cheese in a separate bowl until smooth.
- Pour half the banana batter into the prepared loaf pan. Spread the cream cheese over the batter, then top with the remaining banana batter.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- Use extra ripe bananas for the best flavor and sweetness.
- Ensure cream cheese is softened for easier spreading.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- Enjoy warm with a spread of butter or extra cream cheese!