Cream Cheese-Filled Banana Bread slices with a rich cream cheese swirl

Cream Cheese-Filled Banana Bread

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why make this recipe

This bread pairs sweet banana bread with a soft cream cheese center. It tastes rich but feels light. Many people like the contrast of tender bread and creamy filling. It is easy to slice and share.

introduction

This recipe makes one 9×5-inch loaf with a soft cream cheese layer in the middle. The steps are simple and use common pantry items. If you want ideas for other soft filled treats, see British cream cakes for more inspiration.

how to make Cream Cheese-Filled Banana Bread

Make the banana batter, pour most into the pan, add the cream cheese filling, then top with remaining batter. Bake until the top is golden and the center is set. Let cool before slicing so the filling holds its shape.

Ingredients :

  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 cup light brown sugar (packed)
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup liquid-state coconut oil (canola or vegetable may be substituted)
  • 1/4 cup sour cream (lite is okay; Greek yogurt may be substituted)
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 large bananas)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • pinch salt (optional)
  • 1 large egg (for filling)
  • 4 ounces brick-style cream cheese (softened; lite is okay)
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for filling)
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for filling)

Directions :

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Spray one 9×5-inch loaf pan with floured cooking spray, or grease and flour the pan; set aside.
  2. Make the Banana Bread batter: In a large bowl, add the egg, brown sugar, granulated sugar, coconut oil, sour cream, and vanilla. Whisk to combine.
  3. Add the mashed bananas and stir to mix.
  4. Add 1 cup flour, baking powder, baking soda, and optional salt. Fold with a spatula or stir gently until just combined. Do not overmix. Set aside.
  5. Turn about two-thirds of the batter into the prepared pan. Smooth the top lightly with a spatula and push into corners and sides as needed. Set aside.
  6. Make the Cream Cheese Filling: In a bowl, add the egg, softened cream cheese, 1/4 cup sugar, and 3 tablespoons flour. Whisk until smooth. You can also use a hand mixer.
  7. Pour the cream cheese filling evenly over the bread batter in the pan. Smooth lightly with a spatula and push into corners if needed.
  8. Top with the remaining batter, smoothing the top very lightly so you do not disturb the cream cheese layer. Push batter into corners as needed.
  9. Bake about 48 to 50 minutes or until the top is domed, golden, and the center is set. A toothpick may come out with a few moist crumbs because the cream cheese never gets totally solid.
  10. Let the bread cool in the pan about 15 minutes. Turn out onto a wire rack and cool completely before slicing and serving.

how to serve Cream Cheese-Filled Banana Bread

Slice with a sharp knife. Serve plain or spread a thin layer of butter. It is good slightly warm or at room temperature. Add fresh fruit or a cup of coffee for a simple snack.

how to store Cream Cheese-Filled Banana Bread

Wrap cooled slices in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. Keep at room temperature for up to 2 days. Store in the fridge up to 5 days because of the cream cheese. For longer storage, freeze wrapped slices up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge.

tips to make Cream Cheese-Filled Banana Bread

  • Use very ripe bananas for best flavor and moisture.
  • Do not overmix the batter; this keeps the bread tender.
  • Bring cream cheese to room temperature so the filling mixes smooth.
  • Check oven at 45 minutes; ovens vary. The top should be golden and the center mostly set.
  • Cool before slicing so the filling holds its shape.

variation (if any)

  • Add 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for crunch.
  • Fold in 1/2 cup chocolate chips to the top batter for a sweeter loaf.
  • Add a teaspoon of cinnamon to the batter for warm spice.

FAQs

Q: Can I use butter instead of coconut oil?
A: Yes. Use melted butter in the same amount.

Q: Can I make this in muffin tins?
A: Yes. Fill muffin cups about two-thirds full, add cream cheese filling, top with batter, and bake 18–22 minutes.

Q: Do I have to use sour cream?
A: You can use Greek yogurt as a substitute. It keeps the bread moist.

Q: Can I skip the cream cheese filling?
A: Yes. Bake as plain banana bread but reduce bake time slightly and check doneness earlier.

Q: Why is my cream cheese layer runny?
A: If not cooled enough or if the center is underbaked, the filling can be soft. Cool fully and check bake time.

Conclusion

For a reference and another version of this loaf, see Cream Cheese-Filled Banana Bread – Averie Cooks.