Banana Bread With Cream Cheese In It
When it comes to baked goods, banana bread is one of those timeless classics that never goes out of style. But if you're looking to take this beloved treat to the next level, why not try adding some cream cheese to the mix? This simple twist on a classic recipe can add a whole new dimension of flavor and texture, taking your banana bread to mouthwatering new heights.
The Benefits of Adding Cream Cheese to Your Banana Bread
So why should you consider adding cream cheese to your banana bread recipe? For starters, cream cheese can add a rich, creamy texture that complements the moist, tender crumb of banana bread perfectly. It can also add a subtle tanginess that helps balance out the sweetness of the bananas and sugar, making for a more complex and satisfying flavor profile overall.
But perhaps the biggest benefit of adding cream cheese to your banana bread is the way it can transform the texture of the finished product. Cream cheese contains more fat than other dairy products commonly used in baking, like milk or yogurt. This extra fat can help keep your banana bread moist and tender for longer, so it stays fresh and delicious even after several days.
How to Make Banana Bread with Cream Cheese
If you're ready to try making banana bread with cream cheese, here's a simple recipe to get you started.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 medium bananas)
- 1/4 cup milk
- 8 oz cream cheese, at room temperature
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan and set aside.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- In a separate large bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Add the mashed bananas and milk to the wet mixture, and stir to combine.
- Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!
- In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar together until smooth.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture, and beat until well combined.
- Spread half of the banana bread batter into the prepared loaf pan. Top with the cream cheese mixture, spreading it evenly over the batter.
- Add the remaining banana bread batter on top of the cream cheese mixture, spreading it evenly once again.
- Bake for 55-65 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean.
- Cool the banana bread in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then remove it from the pan and transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Serve and enjoy!
As you can see, making banana bread with cream cheese is a surprisingly easy process. And with the added richness and flavor that the cream cheese brings, you might find yourself making this version of the classic recipe again and again.
Get Creative with Your Banana Bread Add-Ins
While adding cream cheese to your banana bread is a great way to jazz up this classic recipe, don't be afraid to get creative with your add-ins. Here are a few other ideas to try:
- Chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for added crunch and flavor.
- Chocolate chips, for a sweet and satisfying twist.
- Dried fruit, like raisins or cranberries, for a burst of tangy sweetness.
- Cinnamon, nutmeg, or other warm spices, to add depth and complexity to the flavor.
- Coconut flakes, for a tropical twist.
Conclusion
Banana bread is a classic recipe that never gets old, but adding cream cheese to the mix can take it to a whole new level. With its rich, creamy texture and tangy flavor, cream cheese is the perfect addition to this moist and delicious treat. Give this recipe a try, and don't be afraid to get creative with your add-ins to make it your own.