Banana Bread with Cheesecake Filling
This banana bread with a creamy cheesecake filling is a delightful twist on the classic. The rich, velvety cheesecake layer adds a perfect contrast to the sweet, moist banana bread. It’s an irresistible dessert or treat that’s easy to make and sure to impress!
Table of Contents
Ingredients:
For the Banana Bread:
- 2 to 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- A pinch of salt
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Toppings:
- Banana slices (for garnish)
- Chocolate spread or Nutella (to swirl, optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Butter and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan, ensuring that it’s well greased for easy removal of the bread once baked.
2. Prepare the Banana Bread Batter:
In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth. Stir in the melted butter, then mix in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract. Sprinkle the baking soda and salt over the mixture, then gently fold in the flour until just combined. Don’t overmix, as this can result in a dense loaf. Set the banana bread batter aside.
3. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:
In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the sugar until smooth. Add the egg and vanilla extract, and continue beating until the mixture is creamy and well combined. This will form your rich cheesecake filling.
4. Assemble the Banana Bread:
Pour half of the banana bread batter into the prepared loaf pan. Spread the cheesecake filling evenly over the banana bread batter layer. Pour the remaining banana bread batter on top, ensuring it covers the cheesecake layer.
5. Optional Chocolate Swirl and Banana Garnish:
For a touch of extra indulgence, drop spoonfuls of chocolate spread or Nutella on top of the batter. Use a knife to swirl the chocolate into the batter, creating a marbled effect. For a final decorative touch, arrange banana slices on top of the batter.
6. Bake:
Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top begins to brown too quickly, cover the loaf loosely with aluminum foil and continue baking until fully cooked.
7. Cool and Serve:
Allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, slice the banana bread and enjoy the perfect blend of banana and cheesecake flavors.
This banana bread with cheesecake filling is an excellent dessert or snack for any occasion, combining the warmth of banana bread with the richness of cheesecake. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. Enjoy!