Save Experience the ultimate comfort food with this Cream Cheese Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread. This recipe elevates the classic banana loaf by layering a moist, spice-infused batter with a rich, cheesecake-like filling and a fragrant cinnamon sugar crust. It is the perfect balance of fruity sweetness and creamy decadence, making it an ideal choice for a special breakfast, a cozy afternoon snack, or a delightful dessert.
Save Whether you have a few overripe bananas sitting on your counter or you are looking for a show-stopping bake to share with friends, this recipe is a must-try. The aromatic blend of cinnamon and vanilla fills your kitchen as it bakes, creating a cozy atmosphere that matches the delicious flavor of the finished loaf.
Ingredients
Banana Bread- 2 large ripe bananas, mashed
- ½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter, melted
- ¾ cup (150 g) brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups (190 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup (50 g) granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Step 1: Prep
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5-inch (23x13 cm) loaf pan and line with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
- Step 2: Wet Ingredients
- In a large bowl, mash the bananas until smooth. Stir in the melted butter, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Step 3: Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt.
- Step 4: Combine
- Gently fold the dry ingredients into the banana mixture until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Step 5: Filling
- For the cream cheese filling, beat the softened cream cheese with granulated sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Step 6: Swirl Mix
- In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons granulated sugar with 1 teaspoon cinnamon to make the cinnamon sugar.
- Step 7: First Layer
- Pour half of the banana bread batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Sprinkle with half the cinnamon sugar.
- Step 8: Final Layers
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the batter. Top with the remaining banana bread batter and smooth the surface. Sprinkle remaining cinnamon sugar on top.
- Step 9: Bake
- Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean (a few moist crumbs are fine).
- Step 10: Cool
- Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then lift out using the parchment overhang and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To ensure the most successful bake, verify that your cream cheese is fully softened at room temperature before mixing the filling; this prevents unappetizing lumps. When testing for doneness, aim for a toothpick that comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Overbaking can dry out the delicate banana bread base.
Varianten und Anpassungen
If you want to add some texture or extra indulgence, try folding in ½ cup of chopped walnuts or semi-sweet chocolate chips into the banana bread batter during the final mixing stage. You can also substitute the brown sugar with coconut sugar for a slightly different depth of flavor.
Serviervorschläge
This loaf is incredibly delicious when served slightly warm, which softens the cream cheese filling. It also tastes wonderful toasted with a small pat of butter. For storage, keep leftovers wrapped in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to maintain the freshness of the dairy filling.
Save 
Whether you enjoy it as a morning pick-me-up or a late-night treat, this Cream Cheese Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will have everyone reaching for a second slice. Enjoy the perfect blend of sweet banana, aromatic cinnamon, and tangy cream cheese!
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I ensure my banana bread is moist?
Using very ripe, mashed bananas is key for moisture. Also, be careful not to overmix the batter after adding dry ingredients, as this can develop the gluten too much, leading to a tougher texture. Baking until just set, with a few moist crumbs on a toothpick, helps prevent drying out.
- → Can I substitute any ingredients in the cream cheese filling?
For the cream cheese filling, it's best to stick to full-fat cream cheese for the richest, creamiest texture. You could adjust the amount of sugar slightly to your preference, but the egg and vanilla are crucial for its structure and flavor.
- → What's the best way to store this loaf?
Because of the cream cheese filling, this baked good should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 4 days. You can enjoy slices cold, or gently warm them before serving.
- → Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to the batter?
Yes, for extra flavor and texture, you can certainly add ½ cup of chopped walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips to the banana bread batter. Fold them in gently just before combining with the cream cheese layer.
- → How do I know when the loaf is fully baked?
The loaf is typically done when a toothpick or thin skewer inserted into the center comes out clean, or with just a few moist crumbs attached. The top should be golden brown, and the edges will start to pull away from the pan. Baking time can vary, so visual cues are important.
- → Why is proper cooling important for this specific loaf?
Allowing the loaf to cool completely on a wire rack is crucial. This allows the internal structure to set properly, especially the cream cheese layer, preventing it from crumbling or being too soft when sliced. It also enhances the overall flavor and texture.