Moist Cream Cheese Banana Bread

Introduction: Discover the ultimate comfort food with our Moist Cream Cheese Banana Bread. This rich and flavorful bread combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with a creamy cream cheese layer, making it the perfect treat for breakfast or an afternoon snack. Plus, we’ve made a few healthy adjustments to ensure this indulgent treat is still packed with nutritious ingredients. Get ready to enjoy a slice of banana bread that’s delicious and good for you!

Ingredients:

• For the Banana Bread:
  • 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour (or all-purpose flour)
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 3 ripe bananas, mashed
  • 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup
  • 1/4 cup Greek yogurt (or unsweetened applesauce for a dairy-free option)
  • 1/4 cup coconut oil (or olive oil)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• For the Cream Cheese Filling:
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened (use light cream cheese for a healthier option)
  • 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling:
   • In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, honey (or maple syrup), egg, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
3. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
   • In a large bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
4. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
   • In a separate bowl, mash the ripe bananas and mix in the honey (or maple syrup), Greek yogurt, coconut oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
5. Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients:
   • Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
6. Assemble the Banana Bread:
   • Pour half of the banana bread batter into the prepared loaf pan. Carefully spread the cream cheese filling on top, then pour the remaining batter over the cream cheese layer, smoothing the top.
7. Bake:
   • Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top starts to brown too quickly, cover the loaf loosely with aluminum foil for the last 15 minutes of baking.
8. Cool and Serve:
   • Let the banana bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!

Health Benefits:

• Whole Grains and Fiber: Using whole wheat flour increases the fiber content, which supports digestion and helps maintain steady blood sugar levels.
• Natural Sweeteners: By using honey or maple syrup instead of refined sugar, this recipe provides natural sweetness with added antioxidants and vitamins.
• Healthy Fats: Coconut oil and Greek yogurt provide healthy fats and probiotics, which are beneficial for heart health and digestion.

Conclusion: Our Moist Cream Cheese Banana Bread is the perfect blend of indulgence and nutrition. With its creamy filling and naturally sweet flavor, this bread is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy it as a healthy snack or breakfast option, knowing you’re also fueling your body with wholesome ingredients.