A classic comfort food, banana bread becomes a wonderful treat that strikes a balance between moist banana flavor and a creamy tang when coupled with a thick cream cheese filling. Banana bread with cream cheese filling is great for breakfast, a midday snack, or even dessert. Every bite is decadent yet healthful due to its rich texture and the smooth covering of cream cheese. This recipe makes a bakery-style loaf at home, is easy to make, and only requires basic pantry ingredients.

Ingredients

2 to 3 ripe bananas, mashed

1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

3/4 cup granulated sugar

2 large eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt

For the cream cheese filling:

8 oz cream cheese, softened

1/4 cup granulated sugar

1 egg

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a loaf pan with parchment paper. In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, melted butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla. Stir until smooth.

In another bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Gradually fold dry ingredients into wet mixture. Add sour cream or yogurt and mix gently until batter is smooth.

For filling, beat cream cheese, sugar, egg, and vanilla until creamy. Pour half the banana batter into the loaf pan, spread cream cheese mixture evenly, then cover with remaining batter. Bake for 55–65 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Cool before slicing.

Servings

Makes 8–10 slices

Nutritional Info (per serving, approx.)

Calories: 290

Carbohydrates: 38g

Protein: 5g

Fat: 13g

Saturated Fat: 7g

Cholesterol: 65mg

Fiber: 2g

Sugar: 20g

Sodium: 240mg

Notes

This bread tastes best when slightly warm, as the cream cheese filling stays moist and soft. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It can also be frozen for up to 2 months.

Tips

Use very ripe bananas with brown spots for maximum flavor and natural sweetness. Do not overmix the batter; this helps the bread stay tender. If the top browns too quickly, loosely cover with foil during the last 15 minutes of baking. Allow the bread to cool fully before slicing for neat layers.

Health Benefits

Bananas are packed with potassium, fiber, and vitamin B6, which support heart health and digestion. Using Greek yogurt or sour cream adds protein and probiotics, improving gut health. Cream cheese provides calcium and vitamin A, while moderation ensures balance. Homemade banana bread avoids preservatives, making it healthier than packaged options