Why Make This Recipe
Creamy Banana Bread is a delightful treat that combines the natural sweetness of bananas with a rich, creamy texture. This recipe stands out because it adds cream cheese, which makes the bread extra moist and flavorful. It’s perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert!
How to Make Creamy Banana Bread
Ingredients:
0.5 cup margarine, softened
1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
1.25 cups white sugar
2 eggs
1 cup mashed bananas
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2.25 cups all-purpose flour
1.5 teaspoons baking powder
0.5 teaspoon baking soda
0.75 cup chopped pecans
2 tablespoons brown sugar
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
Directions:
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease and flour two 8×4-inch loaf pans.
In a mixing bowl, cream the margarine and cream cheese together. Gradually add the white sugar and continue beating until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Add the eggs one at a time, making sure to beat well after each addition. Stir in the mashed bananas and vanilla extract.
Add the flour, baking powder, and baking soda to the mixture. Mix until the batter is just moist.
In a separate small bowl, mix together the chopped pecans, 2 tablespoons of brown sugar, and cinnamon.
Divide half of the batter between the two prepared loaf pans. Sprinkle the pecan mixture over the batter in the pans, then top with the remaining batter.
Bake in the preheated oven until a toothpick inserted in the center of each loaf comes out clean, which should take about 45 minutes.
How to Serve Creamy Banana Bread
Serve Creamy Banana Bread warm or at room temperature. It’s delicious on its own, but you can spread a little butter or cream cheese on top for an extra special touch. Enjoy it with a cup of coffee or tea!
How to Store Creamy Banana Bread
To store your banana bread, let it cool completely. Wrap it in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and keep it in the fridge for up to a week. You can also freeze it for longer storage. Just slice it first, wrap it well, and place it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It should last in the freezer for about three months.
Tips to Make Creamy Banana Bread
- Make sure your bananas are very ripe for the best flavor.
- You can substitute walnuts for pecans if you prefer.
- Don’t overmix the batter; mix until just combined to keep the bread light and fluffy.
- Feel free to add chocolate chips for a sweet twist!
Variation
You can add dried fruit, such as raisins or cranberries, for a different flavor. Consider using different nuts or even sprinkling some chocolate chips into the batter for a treat.
FAQs
Can I use frozen bananas?
Yes, thaw frozen bananas and mash them for this recipe. They work great!
How do I know when the bread is done baking?
You can tell the bread is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute regular all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make it gluten-free.