Ingredients
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 ripe bananas, mashed
1/4 cup sour cream
4 ounces cream cheese, softened
How to Make Cream Cheese Banana Bread
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s warming up, go ahead and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan. This little prep step ensures that your banana bread comes out easily after baking.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. This step helps evenly distribute the baking soda and spices throughout the flour, which means your banana bread will rise evenly and have that subtle hint of warmth from the cinnamon.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the batter, which is key for that tender, moist crumb we’re after. Trust me, it’s worth the effort!
Step 4: Add the Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each one is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then, stir in the vanilla extract. The eggs add richness and structure to the bread, while the vanilla gives it that cozy, comforting flavor.
Step 5: Incorporate the Bananas and Sour Cream
Now, it’s time to mix in those mashed bananas and sour cream. The bananas bring moisture and natural sweetness, while the sour cream adds a slight tang that balances everything out beautifully.
Step 6: Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer
In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s smooth and creamy. This layer is what sets this banana bread apart – a delicious surprise that adds extra richness to every bite.
Step 7: Assemble and Bake
Pour half of the banana batter into your prepared loaf pan. Then, carefully spread the cream cheese mixture over the batter. Top with the remaining banana batter, and smooth it out with a spatula. Now, pop the loaf in the oven and bake for 60-70 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 8: Cool and Enjoy
Once your banana bread is done baking, let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This bread is delicious on its own, but it’s also fantastic with a smear of butter or a drizzle of honey