This Cream Cheese Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread is a moist, decadent treat that’s perfect for breakfast, a snack, or dessert. With a rich cream cheese filling and a cinnamon swirl running through every slice, it elevates the classic banana bread to a whole new level. It’s easy to make and sure to become a family favorite!
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Moist & Fluffy – This banana bread stays moist for days, thanks to ripe bananas and a rich cream cheese filling.
- Cinnamon Swirl – The swirl of cinnamon sugar adds a sweet and spicy depth to each bite.
- Cream Cheese Filling – The creamy filling creates a rich contrast to the banana bread, making every slice extra indulgent.
- Simple Ingredients – Everything you need is likely already in your pantry, making this a go-to recipe for when you have ripe bananas!
Ingredients for Cream Cheese Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread
For the Banana Bread:
- 2 to 3 ripe bananas – Mashed (about 1 ½ cups).
- 2 cups all-purpose flour – Provides the base for the bread.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder – Helps the bread rise.
- ½ teaspoon baking soda – For additional leavening.
- ¼ teaspoon salt – To balance the sweetness.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened – Adds moisture and richness.
- 1 cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the bread.
- 2 large eggs – For structure and binding.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor.
- ½ cup buttermilk – Keeps the bread soft and moist.
For the Cream Cheese Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened – The creamy base for the filling.
- 1/3 cup powdered sugar – Sweetens the filling.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds flavor to the filling.
For the Cinnamon Swirl:
- ¼ cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the cinnamon mix.
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon – For a warm, spicy flavor.
Tools You’ll Need
- 9×5-inch loaf pan – To bake the banana bread.
- Mixing bowls – For the banana bread, cream cheese filling, and cinnamon swirl.
- Hand mixer or whisk – To combine the ingredients smoothly.
- Spatula – To spread the filling and swirl the cinnamon sugar.
How to Make Cream Cheese Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Loaf Pan
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Make the Banana Bread Batter
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the mashed bananas and vanilla extract.
- Alternate adding the dry ingredients and buttermilk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Step 3: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling
- In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
Step 4: Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl
- In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Set aside.
Step 5: Assemble the Banana Bread
- Pour half of the banana bread batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it into an even layer.
- Spoon the cream cheese filling over the batter, spreading it evenly but not all the way to the edges.
- Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over the cream cheese filling.
- Top with the remaining banana bread batter, spreading it to cover the cream cheese and cinnamon swirl.
Step 6: Swirl the Cinnamon Filling
- Using a knife or a skewer, gently swirl the cinnamon sugar and cream cheese filling through the banana bread batter to create the swirl effect.
Step 7: Bake the Bread
- Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the bread comes out clean or with a few crumbs attached.
- If the bread starts to brown too much on top, cover it loosely with foil and continue baking.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Slice and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Cream Cheese Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread
- Use Overripe Bananas – The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your banana bread will be.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter – Mix just until everything is combined to avoid a dense loaf.
- Check for Doneness – Banana bread can take longer to cook depending on your oven. Always test with a toothpick.
- Add Walnuts or Chocolate Chips – For extra texture, try adding chopped walnuts or chocolate chips to the banana bread batter.
Storage Instructions
- Store at Room Temperature – This banana bread can be kept in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerate Leftovers – If you have any leftover slices, refrigerate them for up to 5 days.
- Freeze for Later – This banana bread freezes well! Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature or in the microwave before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?
A: Yes, you can use regular milk or make your own buttermilk by adding 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to ½ cup of milk and letting it sit for a few minutes.
Q2: Can I add other spices to the swirl?
A: Absolutely! Try adding a pinch of nutmeg or ground ginger to the cinnamon sugar mixture for a unique twist.
Q3: Can I use a different type of fat?
A: You can substitute the butter with oil for a slightly lighter texture, but the flavor will differ.
Conclusion: A Heavenly Banana Bread with a Creamy Twist!
This Cream Cheese Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread is a must-try for anyone who loves a rich, sweet, and slightly spiced banana bread. The combination of cinnamon, cream cheese, and bananas is simply irresistible!
Did you make this recipe? Don’t forget to leave a review and share your photos on Pinterest! We love seeing your delicious creations.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 65 minutes
Cuisine: American
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 290
Protein: 4g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fat: 14g
Fiber: 2g
Enjoy this mouthwatering twist on a classic favorite—perfect for any occasion!
Print
Cream Cheese Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Description
This Cream Cheese Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread is a moist, decadent treat that’s perfect for breakfast, a snack, or dessert. With a rich cream cheese filling and a cinnamon swirl running through every slice, it elevates the classic banana bread to a whole new level. It’s easy to make and sure to become a family favorite!
Subscribe to our newsletter to get this recipe delivered straight to your inbox and never miss out on delicious updates!
Ingredients
For the Banana Bread:
- 2 to 3 ripe bananas – Mashed (about 1 ½ cups).
- 2 cups all-purpose flour – Provides the base for the bread.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder – Helps the bread rise.
- ½ teaspoon baking soda – For additional leavening.
- ¼ teaspoon salt – To balance the sweetness.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened – Adds moisture and richness.
- 1 cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the bread.
- 2 large eggs – For structure and binding.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor.
- ½ cup buttermilk – Keeps the bread soft and moist.
For the Cream Cheese Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened – The creamy base for the filling.
- 1/3 cup powdered sugar – Sweetens the filling.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds flavor to the filling.
For the Cinnamon Swirl:
- ¼ cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the cinnamon mix.
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon – For a warm, spicy flavor.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Loaf Pan
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Make the Banana Bread Batter
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the mashed bananas and vanilla extract.
- Alternate adding the dry ingredients and buttermilk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Step 3: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling
- In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
Step 4: Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl
- In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Set aside.
Step 5: Assemble the Banana Bread
- Pour half of the banana bread batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it into an even layer.
- Spoon the cream cheese filling over the batter, spreading it evenly but not all the way to the edges.
- Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over the cream cheese filling.
- Top with the remaining banana bread batter, spreading it to cover the cream cheese and cinnamon swirl.
Step 6: Swirl the Cinnamon Filling
- Using a knife or a skewer, gently swirl the cinnamon sugar and cream cheese filling through the banana bread batter to create the swirl effect.
Step 7: Bake the Bread
- Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the bread comes out clean or with a few crumbs attached.
- If the bread starts to brown too much on top, cover it loosely with foil and continue baking.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Slice and enjoy!
Notes
- Use Overripe Bananas – The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your banana bread will be.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter – Mix just until everything is combined to avoid a dense loaf.
- Check for Doneness – Banana bread can take longer to cook depending on your oven. Always test with a toothpick.
- Add Walnuts or Chocolate Chips – For extra texture, try adding chopped walnuts or chocolate chips to the banana bread batter.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 65 minutes
- Cuisine: American
