Cream Cheese Banana Bread

Introduction:

Cream Cheese Banana Bread is a delightful twist on the classic banana bread recipe, incorporating a rich and creamy layer of cream cheese that adds a luscious texture and flavor. This recipe is perfect for those special occasions when you want to indulge in something sweet and comforting. It’s not a low-calorie dish, but it’s definitely worth the splurge, especially as a treat for yourself or to share with others.

Ingredients:

• 3/4 cup butter, softened
• 1 (8 oz.) package cream cheese, softened
• 2 cups sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 cups mashed bananas (about 4 medium bananas)
• 1 cup roughly chopped pecans, toasted
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8×4 inch loaf pans.
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and cream cheese together at medium speed with an electric mixer until creamy.
3. Gradually add the sugar, continuing to beat until the mixture is light and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating just until each egg is blended.
5. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
6. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, beating at low speed until just blended.
7. Stir in the mashed bananas, chopped pecans, and vanilla extract.
8. Spoon the batter evenly into the prepared loaf pans.
9. Bake for about 1 hour, or until a long wooden pick inserted in the center comes out clean. If necessary, shield the loaves with aluminum foil during the last 15 minutes to prevent excessive browning.
10. Cool the bread in the pans on wire racks for 10 minutes, then remove from the pans and let cool completely on the wire racks before slicing.

Conclusion:

This Cream Cheese Banana Bread is a versatile recipe that can be enjoyed at any time of the year, but it’s particularly comforting in the fall. Whether you’re treating yourself after a long week or gifting a loaf to a friend or neighbor, this bread is sure to be a hit. The combination of banana and cream cheese creates a moist and flavorful loaf that pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee or tea. Enjoy!