Are you craving a comforting, delicious treat that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This banana bread recipe with a luscious cream cheese filling is the perfect answer. It's moist, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying – a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack. Forget store-bought baked goods; this homemade version is far superior and surprisingly quick to whip up! This recipe is perfect for those looking for easy recipes, healthy meals (with modifications), and quick dinner ideas, even if you're a beginner in the kitchen. It's one of the best recipes for delicious dishes you'll ever try!
Ingredients:
For the Banana Bread:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup packed light brown sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 3 medium)
For the Cream Cheese Filling:
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
Get started: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x5 inch loaf pan. This simple step ensures your banana bread releases easily.
Make the batter: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and both sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Don't overmix! Gently fold in the mashed bananas.
Prepare the filling: While the oven preheats and the batter is mixing, prepare the cream cheese filling. In a small bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Beat in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until light and fluffy. This should take just a minute or two with an electric mixer.
Assemble and bake: Pour half of the banana bread batter into the prepared loaf pan. Spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the batter. Top with the remaining banana bread batter.
Bake to perfection: Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Check it around the 50-minute mark to prevent overbaking.
Cool and enjoy: Let the banana bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This allows the bread to set and prevents it from becoming soggy. Slice and serve!
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer flavor: Use brown butter instead of regular butter in both the bread and the filling.
- Add nuts: Chopped walnuts, pecans, or macadamia nuts add a delightful crunch. Fold them into the batter before adding the bananas.
- Spice it up: A dash of cinnamon or nutmeg enhances the warm flavors of the banana bread.
- Make it healthier: Substitute whole wheat flour for half of the all-purpose flour for a more nutritious loaf. You could also reduce the sugar slightly.
- Chocolate lover's delight: Add chocolate chips to the batter for an extra decadent treat.
Nutritional Information (per slice, approximate):
Calories: Around 300-350 (depending on variations) Fat: 15-20g Protein: 4-5g Carbohydrates: 40-45g Sugar: 20-25g
(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.)
This banana bread with cream cheese filling is a simple yet impressive recipe, perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the delicious aroma filling your kitchen, and the satisfying taste of this homemade treat! It's sure to become a new favorite in your household.