Cream Cheese Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread

If you’re looking for a cozy, indulgent twist on a classic favorite, this Cream Cheese Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread is just what you need. Moist, sweet banana bread gets an upgrade with a rich cream cheese center and a cinnamon sugar swirl that bakes into every slice. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a snack with coffee, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.

Want recipes like this delivered straight to your inbox? Subscribe now to get the latest culinary creations you’ll love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Decadent & Moist – The cream cheese center keeps the loaf soft and rich.
Layered with Flavor – Sweet banana, warm cinnamon, and creamy filling all in one bite.
Easy to Make – No mixer needed and comes together with simple ingredients.
Perfect for Any Time – Ideal for brunch, holidays, or a comforting treat.
Freezer-Friendly – Make it ahead and freeze for future cravings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Banana Bread:

• 3 ripe bananas (mashed)
• ½ cup brown sugar
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter (melted and slightly cooled)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon

For the Cream Cheese Filling:

• 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• ½ tsp vanilla extract

For the Cinnamon Swirl:

• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon

Optional Topping:

• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• ½ tsp cinnamon

Tools You’ll Need

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk and spatula
• Loaf pan (9×5-inch)
• Parchment paper or nonstick spray
• Toothpick or cake tester

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prep the Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease 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 mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth.
Add brown sugar, granulated sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract.
Whisk until fully combined.
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet banana mixture. Don’t overmix—just until combined. Set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling
In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Mix the Cinnamon Swirl
In a small bowl, combine brown sugar and cinnamon for the swirl.

Step 5: Layer the Batter and Filling
Pour half of the banana bread batter into the prepared loaf pan.
Sprinkle half of the cinnamon swirl mixture over the batter.
Gently spread all of the cream cheese mixture over the top.
Add the remaining banana batter on top of the cream cheese layer.
Sprinkle the remaining cinnamon swirl mixture over the top.
For an extra touch, mix together the optional topping and sprinkle it over the loaf.

Step 6: Bake the Banana Bread
Bake for 55 to 65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean (a few moist crumbs are okay, but no wet batter).
If the top browns too quickly, tent with foil during the last 15 minutes of baking.

Step 7: Cool and Serve
Let the banana bread cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes.
Transfer to a wire rack and cool completely before slicing for the cleanest cuts.
Serve warm or at room temperature and enjoy!

Tips for Success
Use Very Ripe Bananas – The riper, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be.
Don’t Overmix – Mix until just combined to keep your bread light and fluffy.
Room Temp Ingredients – Cream cheese and eggs blend better at room temperature.
Swirl Smart – Use a knife to gently swirl the top layer if you want a marbled look.
Cool Before Cutting – Letting the bread cool helps the cream cheese set for perfect slices.

Serving Suggestions
Coffee Companion – Pair with your morning coffee or latte.
Holiday Brunch – A festive addition to Easter, Thanksgiving, or Christmas breakfast.
After-School Snack – A kid-approved sweet treat with wholesome ingredients.
Toasted with Butter – Lightly toast a slice and add a dab of butter for a cozy upgrade.

How to Store & Freeze

Storing:

• Room Temperature: Keep in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Refrigerator: Store for up to 5 days to maintain the cream cheese layer.

Freezing:

• Freeze the whole loaf or individual slices tightly wrapped in plastic and foil for up to 2 months.
• Thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature before serving.

Reheating:

• Microwave a slice for 15-20 seconds for that fresh-baked warmth.
• Toast lightly for a crisp exterior and soft interior.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! It tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.

2. What can I use instead of cream cheese?
Mascarpone works well, or you can skip the filling if you prefer a classic version.

3. Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?
Yes! Chopped walnuts, pecans, or mini chocolate chips make great additions.

4. Why is my bread dense?
Overmixing or using too much flour can cause density. Be gentle and measure carefully.

5. Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, just use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour in place of regular flour.

Final Thoughts
This Cream Cheese Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread is everything you want in a sweet, cozy treat—moist banana flavor, rich cream cheese filling, and a delightful cinnamon crunch. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just for yourself, this loaf is sure to impress.

Try it once and you’ll keep coming back to it again and again. Don’t forget to save this recipe, leave a review, and share your creation on Pinterest or Instagram!

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 60 minutes
Cuisine: American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 320 | Protein: 5g | Carbohydrates: 38g | Fat: 17g | Fiber: 2g | Sodium: 240mg

Print