April 12, 2024

Favorite Banana Bread with Cream Cheese Swirl Recipe

Indulge in a slice of comfort with our Favorite Banana Bread with Cream Cheese Swirl Recipe, a delightful twist on a classic favorite. This moist and flavorful banana bread is elevated with a luscious cream cheese swirl running through its center, adding a rich and creamy texture with every bite. Topped with a tantalizing cinnamon crumble, this irresistible treat is sure to become a beloved staple in your baking repertoire, perfect for any time of day from breakfast to dessert.

SIMPLE INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED:

Banana Bread Ingredients:

Ripe Bananas (4): Mashed to perfection, these bananas lend their natural sweetness and moist texture to the bread, infusing it with irresistible flavor.
White Sugar (1 cup): Provides sweetness to balance the tanginess of the cream cheese swirl and adds a pleasant caramelized crust to the bread when baked.
Vanilla Extract (2 tsp): Enhances the overall aroma and flavor profile of the bread with its warm and fragrant notes.
Eggs (2): Act as a binding agent, helping to hold the ingredients together and providing structure to the bread.
Unsalted Butter (8 tbsp, melted): Adds richness and moisture to the bread, resulting in a tender crumb with a buttery flavor.
Sour Cream (½ cup): Contributes to the moistness and richness of the bread while imparting a subtle tanginess.
Baking Powder (1 tsp) and Baking Soda (1 tsp): Leavening agents that help the bread rise and achieve a light and fluffy texture.
Cinnamon (1 tsp): Infuses the bread with warm, comforting notes of spice, complementing the sweetness of the bananas.
Flour (2 cups): Serves as the base ingredient, providing structure and stability to the bread.
Salt (¼ tsp): Enhances the overall flavor of the bread and helps balance the sweetness of the other ingredients.

Cream Cheese Swirl:

Cream Cheese (8 ounces, room temperature): Creamy and smooth, this tangy cheese adds richness and a luscious texture to the bread, creating a delightful contrast to the sweet banana flavor.
Egg (1): Helps bind the cream cheese swirl together and adds moisture and richness to the mixture.
Sugar (¼ cup): Sweetens the cream cheese swirl, balancing its tanginess and adding a hint of sweetness.
Flour (2 tbsp): Acts as a thickening agent, helping to stabilize the cream cheese swirl and prevent it from becoming too runny.

Cinnamon Crumble Topping:

Flour (⅓ cup): Forms the base of the crumble topping, providing structure and a slightly crisp texture when baked.
Brown Sugar (⅓ cup): Adds sweetness and caramelization to the topping, creating a deliciously crunchy crust.
Butter (2 tbsp, melted): Binds the ingredients together and helps create clusters of crumble that add a delightful crunch to the bread.
Cinnamon (1 tsp): Infuses the crumble topping with warm, spicy notes, enhancing its flavor and aroma.

HOW TO PREPARE FAVORITE BANANA BREAD RECIPE?

Time needed: 1 hour and 15 minutes

Preheat your Oven:

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9 x 5-inch loaf pan with butter or cooking spray.
Mix all the Wet Ingredients:

In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas using a fork until smooth.

Add the sugar, vanilla extract, eggs, melted butter, and sour cream to the mashed bananas. With an electric mixer, on low speed combine ingredients well.

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Mix all the Dry into Wet Ingredients:

In a large bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in dense bread.
Prepare the Cream Cheese Swirl:

In another medium bowl, with an electric mixer on medium speed mix cream cheese until smooth.

Then with mixer in high speed add the egg, sugar, and flour to the cream cheese. Beat until well combined and smooth.
Make the Cinnamon Crumble Topping:

In a small bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, melted butter, and cinnamon until crumbly. Set aside.
Assemble the Bread:

Pour half of the banana bread batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it out evenly.
Layer the Filling and Cream Cheese:

Spoon batter of the cream cheese layer over the banana bread batter in the prepared loaf pan. Then pour the remaining banana batter on top.
Swirl the Cream Cheese:

Use a butter knife or skewer to gently swirl the cream cheese mixture into the banana bread batter, creating a marbled effect.
Add the Cinnamon Crumble Topping:

Sprinkle the cinnamon crumble topping evenly over the top of the batter.
Bake the Banana Bread:

Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

If the top of the bread starts to brown too quickly, loosely cover it with aluminum foil to prevent burning.
Cool and Serve:

Once baked, remove the banana bread from the oven (350 degrees f) and allow it to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes.

Carefully transfer the bread to wire racks to cool bread before slicing and serving.

FAQ – FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

How ripe should the bananas be for banana bread?

Spotty bananas or overripe bananas and are best for banana bread. They are sweeter and mash easier, they add more natural sweetness, and moisture to the bread.

Can I use frozen bananas for banana bread?

Yes, frozen bananas can be used for banana bread. Thaw the bananas completely and drain any excess liquid before using them in the recipe.

Can I use low-fat cream cheese for the swirl?

Yes, low-fat cream cheese can be used, but keep in mind the texture and flavor will be different. You may need to adjust the amount of sugar and vanilla extract to taste.

How do I prevent the cream cheese swirl from sinking in the bread?

To prevent the cream cheese swirl from sinking, don’t overmix the batter once the swirl is added. Gently fold the batter over the swirl, being careful not to disturb it too much.

How do I know when banana bread is done baking?

Banana bread is typically done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be golden brown, and the bread should spring back when lightly pressed in the center.

BANANA BREAD RECIPE VARIATION AND SUBSTITUTIONS:

Chocolate Chip Variation: Instead of or in addition to the cream cheese swirl, fold chocolate chips into the batter for chocolatey goodness.
Nutty Crunch: Add chopped nuts like walnuts, pecans, or almonds to the batter for added texture and nutty flavor. Toast the nuts beforehand to enhance their crunchiness and depth of flavor.
Sweeteners: Instead of using granulated sugar experiment with sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar to sweeten the bread.
Cream Cheese Frosting: Instead of a cinnamon crumble, top the baked banana bread with a luscious cream cheese frosting. Beat softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth, then spread it over the cooled bread.
Spice Blend: Elevate the flavor profile by adding warm spices like nutmeg and cloves to the batter.
Fruit Additions: Mix in diced fruit such as strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries into the banana bread batter for a fruity twist.
Whole Grain Flour: Substitute part of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or other whole grain flour like spelt or oat flour. This will add fiber, nutrients, nuttier flavor, and texture to the banana bread.
Dairy-Free Options: Make the cream cheese swirl dairy-free by using a dairy-free cream cheese alternative or a homemade cashew cream cheese.
Nut Butter Swirl: Incorporate a swirl of nut butter, such as almond butter, peanut butter, or cashew butter, into the cream cheese mixture for added richness and a nutty flavor.

WHAT DO I SERVE WITH CREAM CHEESE BANANA BREAD RECIPE?

When you have banana bread, you often enjoy it with different sides and drinks that make it taste even better. Common sides include fresh fruit like berries, pineapple, or sliced kiwi, that provide a refreshing twist. Additionally, a side of creamy yogurt, cubed mild cheddar, or a creamy brie adds richness to the meal. As for drinks, hot coffee, hot tea, glass of cold milk or fruit juice would all be excellent choices. These sides and drinks create a well-rounded and satisfying meal for the whole family for breakfast, snack time, or dessert.

UP CLOSE PHOTOE OF BANANA BREAD WITH CREAM CHEESE SWIRL

CAN I FREEZE BANANA BREAD WITH CREAM CHEESE SWIRL?

Yes, banana bread with cream cheese swirl can be frozen for later enjoyment. Wrap the cooled bread in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. Frozen banana bread can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

HOW CAN I STORE LEFTOVER BANANA BREAD?

To store leftover banana bread, ensure it has cooled completely and wrap it tightly. Use plastic wrap, aluminum foil, or in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn. If you plan to eat it within a few days, store it at room temperature in a cool, dry place. For longer-term storage, refrigerate the banana bread, tightly wrapped, for up to a week. Reheat briefly in the oven or microwave to refresh it before serving.

LOOKING FOR MORE BAKED RECIPES? TRY THESE!

Banana Zucchini Bread: This recipe for banana zucchini bread is a great way to keep food from going in the garbage while making a delicious treat for your family. It’s packed with grated zucchini, mashed bananas, and chocolate chips.

Hummingbird Cake: This beloved dessert boasts a symphony of flavors, blending the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the juicy brightness of crushed pineapple. Topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting and a sprinkle of chopped pecans, it’s a culinary masterpiece that has graced Southern tables for generations.

Caramel Chocolate Bars: These decadent bars are a symphony of rich flavors and delightful textures, featuring a buttery oatmeal crust generously layered with velvety caramel and topped with a generous sprinkle of decadent chocolate.

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