Description
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.
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Ingredients
For the Banana Bread:
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3 ripe bananas (mashed)
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½ cup brown sugar
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¼ cup granulated sugar
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½ cup unsalted butter (melted and slightly cooled)
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2 large eggs
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
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1 tsp baking soda
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½ tsp salt
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1 tsp ground cinnamon
For the Cream Cheese Filling:
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8 oz cream cheese (softened)
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¼ cup granulated sugar
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1 large egg
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½ tsp vanilla extract
For the Cinnamon Swirl:
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¼ cup brown sugar
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1 tsp ground cinnamon
Optional Topping:
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2 tbsp brown sugar
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½ tsp cinnamon
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!
Notes
- 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.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Cuisine: American