Transform your overripe bananas into a true masterpiece with this incredible Banana Bread recipe, featuring a delightful cream cheese swirl! This isn’t just any banana bread; it’s an exceptionally moist, tender, and flavorful loaf, elevated by a luscious ribbon of sweet cream cheese that bakes right into the center. It’s the perfect treat for breakfast, brunch, or a comforting snack, promising a slice of pure bliss with every bite.

Why I Love This Recipe

Banana bread is a classic for a reason, but this version with the cream cheese swirl takes it to a whole new level! What I love most is the unbelievable moisture and richness that comes from the combination of mashed bananas and sour cream in the batter. But the real game-changer is that creamy, sweet cream cheese layer baked into the middle. It creates a surprising and delightful tangy contrast to the sweet banana bread, adding an extra layer of decadence that makes this loaf truly unforgettable. It’s comforting, satisfying, and always a huge hit whenever I bake it.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this incredibly moist Banana Bread with Cream Cheese Swirl:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 bananas, very ripe and mashed
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened

Swaps and Notes

• Bananas: The riper the bananas, the better! Look for bananas with plenty of brown spots; they’re sweeter and easier to mash.
• Sour Cream: Full-fat sour cream adds incredible moisture and tenderness. Greek yogurt (full-fat) can be a substitute for a similar effect.
• Cream Cheese: Use full-fat brick-style cream cheese, ensuring it’s softened to room temperature for a smooth, lump-free swirl.
• Butter: Unsalted butter is preferred to control the overall saltiness. Make sure it’s softened, not melted, for proper creaming.
• Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon enhances the warm, comforting flavor. A pinch of nutmeg or allspice could also be added for extra warmth.
• Optional Add-ins: Feel free to stir in 1/2 to 1 cup of chocolate chips, chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans), or even shredded coconut into the banana bread batter before layering.

---

Instructions

Let’s get this delicious Banana Bread baking!

1. Preheat Oven & Prep Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan thoroughly. You can also line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides, for easier removal.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon. Set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, using an electric mixer, cream together the 1/2 cup softened butter and 1 1/4 cup granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
4. Add Wet Ingredients (Batter): Beat in the 2 large eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Mix in the 3 mashed bananas and 1/4 cup sour cream until just combined.
5. Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients from step 2 to the wet banana mixture, mixing on low speed or by hand until just incorporated. Be careful not to overmix the batter.
6. Prepare Cream Cheese Swirl: In a separate small bowl, beat the 4 ounces softened cream cheese until it is smooth and creamy.
7. Assemble the Loaf:
   • Pour approximately half of the banana batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly.
   • Carefully spoon and spread the beaten cream cheese over the banana batter layer.
   • Gently top with the remaining banana batter, spreading it carefully to cover the cream cheese layer.
8. Bake: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven. Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center (avoiding the direct cream cheese swirl if possible, though a little cream cheese on the toothpick is fine) comes out clean. If the top browns too quickly, you can loosely tent it with aluminum foil.
9. Cool: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before carefully transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slicing too early can make the bread crumble or be gummy.

Tips for Success

• Ripe Bananas are Key: Use very ripe bananas (brown spots are good!) for the best flavor and moisture.
• Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter can lead to a tough bread. Mix just until combined.
• Soften Cream Cheese & Butter: Ensure both are at room temperature for a smooth batter and swirl.
• Adjust Baking Time: Oven temperatures can vary. Start checking for doneness at 60 minutes.
• Cool Completely: Allowing the bread to cool fully before slicing helps it set and prevents it from being gummy.

---

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This Banana Bread is a delicious treat on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with:

• A simple slice with coffee or tea: Perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack.
• Toasted with a spread of butter: A classic way to enjoy it.
• With fresh fruit: A side of berries or sliced melon adds freshness.
• Alongside a big family brunch: This impressive loaf is always a hit!
• For other delightful baked goods that are perfect for breakfast or dessert, consider our These Easy Pumpkin Spice Muffins Are My Favorite Fall Treat To Bake On Repeat.

---

Storage and Leftover Tips

This banana bread stays wonderfully moist for days!

• Room Temperature: Store the cooled banana bread, tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container, at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. The cream cheese swirl helps keep it moist.
• Refrigeration: If you prefer, or in warmer climates, you can refrigerate the banana bread, tightly wrapped, for up to a week.
• Freezing: This banana bread freezes beautifully. Once completely cooled, wrap the entire loaf or individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then a layer of aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw at room temperature or gently warm slices in the microwave or oven.

---

More Recipes You Will Love

If you loved the moist, comforting, and sweet nature of this banana bread, you’ll definitely want to explore some of our other fantastic, fuss-free recipes that bring joy to your kitchen:

• For another fantastic way to use up overripe bananas, our original This Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Is My Favorite Way To Use Up Overripe Bananas is a beloved classic.
• If you’re a fan of big, comforting desserts that feed a crowd, our This Big Family Banana Pudding Is My Favorite Classic Dessert To Feed A Crowd is a must-try.
• For easy and trendy breakfast ideas, check out The Viral Cottage Cheese Pancake Everyone’s or This One-Pan Breakfast Bake Will Make You Skip.

---

Final Thoughts

This Banana Bread with Cream Cheese Swirl recipe transforms a simple classic into an extraordinary treat. It’s incredibly moist, perfectly sweet, and that creamy swirl adds a touch of elegance and surprise that makes every slice irresistible. It’s the perfect bake for sharing, gifting, or simply enjoying a quiet moment of delicious comfort.

Give this recipe a try and let this delightful banana bread become your new go-to! What’s your favorite way to enjoy a slice of homemade banana bread? Share your ideas and feedback in the comments below! And for more amazing, easy-to-follow recipes that bring joy to your kitchen, be sure to visit Chefmaniac.com. Happy baking!