Strawberry Cream Cheese Filled Banana Bread

Strawberry Cream Cheese Filled Banana Bread

Strawberry Cream Cheese Filled Banana Bread is a delightful twist on the classic banana bread. It combines the rich flavors of ripe bananas, fresh strawberries, and a creamy center that adds a lovely texture. This recipe is perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is ideal for several reasons. First, it’s a great way to use up ripe bananas that might otherwise go to waste. Secondly, the addition of cream cheese and strawberries makes this banana bread extra special and delicious. Lastly, it’s simple to make and will have your kitchen smelling wonderful as it bakes!

How to Make Strawberry Cream Cheese Filled Banana Bread

Making Strawberry Cream Cheese Filled Banana Bread is easy and fun! Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious loaf ready in no time.

Ingredients:

• 1 egg
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 2 large ripe bananas, mashed
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• Pinch of salt
• 1 1/3 cups all-purpose flour
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 egg
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped and tossed in 1 tablespoon of flour

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9×5 inch loaf pan with cooking spray or grease and flour.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the egg, brown sugar, vegetable oil, sour cream, and vanilla extract. Mix in the mashed bananas, then gently stir in the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until just combined.
3. In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth. Mix in 1 egg and 3 tablespoons of flour, then fold in the floured strawberries.
4. Spread half of the banana bread batter into the prepared loaf pan, then carefully spread the cream cheese filling on top. Top with the remaining batter and smooth lightly.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes until set. Allow to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

How to Serve Strawberry Cream Cheese Filled Banana Bread

This banana bread is best served warm or at room temperature. You can slice it and enjoy it plain or spread a little butter on top for extra flavor. It pairs nicely with a cup of coffee or tea!

How to Store Strawberry Cream Cheese Filled Banana Bread

To store your banana bread, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil. You can keep it at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, place it in the refrigerator for about a week or freeze it for up to 3 months.

Tips to Make Strawberry Cream Cheese Filled Banana Bread

• Use very ripe bananas for more sweetness and flavor.
• Make sure the cream cheese is softened for easy blending.
• Tossing the strawberries in flour helps prevent them from sinking to the bottom of the loaf.
• Test for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean.

Variation

You can switch up the fruits in this recipe. Try adding blueberries, raspberries, or even chopped nuts for added texture.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries! Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before adding to the cream cheese mixture.

2. What can I do if my banana bread is too dense?
Ensure that you are not overmixing the batter. Mix until just combined to keep the bread light and fluffy.

3. How can I make this recipe healthier?
You can substitute part of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour and use less sugar or a sugar substitute to make it healthier.