This Cream Cheese-Filled Banana Bread is pure magic in loaf form: you get everything you love about classic banana bread, but with a decadent, creamy center that makes each slice feel like a special treat. It’s just sweet enough, ultra-moist from ripe bananas and sour cream, and that cheesecake-like filling truly sets it over the top. Whether you serve it for brunch, as a mid-day coffee companion, or as a sweet finish to dinner, this recipe transforms humble overripe bananas into something absolutely irresistible.

Cream Cheese-Filled Banana Bread Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

What makes this Cream Cheese-Filled Banana Bread a real showstopper are the simple but carefully chosen ingredients. Each one plays its own part in building the moist crumb, luscious texture, and cozy flavor. Take a peek below, and you’ll see: no complicated shopping list, just everyday staples coming together in the best way.

Mashed ripe bananas: Use bananas that are heavily speckled or even black—they make the bread extra moist and naturally sweet.
Eggs: These bind everything and give the loaf structure and tenderness.
Coconut oil (or vegetable oil): Oil keeps the bread soft and fresh-tasting even days later.
Light brown sugar: Adds caramel notes and extra moisture that white sugar can’t match.
Granulated sugar: Balances the flavor and lightens the texture.
Sour cream: Secret ingredient for ultimate moistness—don’t skip this!
Vanilla extract: For sweet, warm aroma that complements banana and cream cheese beautifully.
All-purpose flour: The backbone of your bread—don’t pack it down while measuring.
Baking soda: Lifts the bread, making it delightfully light.
Baking powder: Works in harmony with baking soda for the perfect rise.
Salt: Just a pinch to balance sweetness and boost all the flavors.
Cream cheese (brick-style, softened): The star ingredient in the filling—be sure it’s softened so it blends easily.
Granulated sugar (for filling): Sweetens the creamy center just the right amount.
Egg (for filling): Gives the cream cheese filling a creamier texture and helps it set.
All-purpose flour (for filling): Thickens the center so it stays creamy, not runny.

How to Make Cream Cheese-Filled Banana Bread

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven

Kick things off by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). You’ll want to grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan well—either with nonstick spray, a dab of butter, or even lining it with parchment paper for fuss-free removal later. This little step ensures your Cream Cheese-Filled Banana Bread comes out picture-perfect every time.

Step 2: Make the Banana Bread Batter

In a large bowl, combine your mashed bananas, eggs, coconut oil, both sugars, sour cream, and vanilla. Whisk it all together until the mixture looks smooth and completely blended—don’t worry about tiny banana lumps! Next, sprinkle in the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Fold everything together gently with a spatula, being careful not to overmix. Too much stirring will make the bread tough instead of tender and moist.

Step 3: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling

Grab a separate, medium-sized bowl. Beat together the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, egg, and flour. Mix until your filling is silky-smooth with no visible lumps. This creamy mixture will become the cheesecake ribbon running through the middle of your banana bread—just try not to eat it straight from the bowl!

Step 4: Layer the Batter and Cream Cheese

Pour half of the banana bread batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Gently spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the batter. It helps to use an offset spatula or the back of a spoon to make sure it reaches all the edges. Top with the remaining banana batter, once again smoothing the surface so it bakes up nice and level. You’re almost there!

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Slide your filled loaf pan into the oven and set a timer for 45 to 55 minutes. When it’s done, a toothpick inserted into the center should come out mostly clean—with a few moist crumbs attached is perfect! If you notice the top browning too quickly, tent it lightly with foil for the last 10 minutes of baking. Let your Cream Cheese-Filled Banana Bread cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to finish cooling completely. Slicing while slightly warm is pure bliss.

How to Serve Cream Cheese-Filled Banana Bread

Garnishes

For a showstopping finish, dust your loaf with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or lay a few banana slices across the top before serving. A drizzle of warm honey or a little zig-zag of caramel sauce can also highlight the cream cheese swirl. Don’t be shy—this bread loves a little extra flair!

Side Dishes

Cream Cheese-Filled Banana Bread pairs beautifully with a cup of bold coffee or a frothy chai latte. For brunch, add a bowl of fresh berries or a scoop of creamy Greek yogurt on the side. Want dessert vibes? Serve with vanilla ice cream or a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream for extra indulgence.

Creative Ways to Present

Go beyond basic slices! Try toasting a thick piece and spreading it with a little butter for breakfast. For parties, cut the loaf into small cubes and thread them onto skewers with strawberries for a fun, interactive treat. You can also layer slices with yogurt and fruit in parfait glasses for a beautiful (and delicious) display.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cool your Cream Cheese-Filled Banana Bread completely, then wrap it snugly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the fridge for 4 to 5 days. The cream cheese center means refrigeration is best for keeping everything at its tastiest and safest.

Freezing

If you want to make the most of your baking session, freeze individual slices or the whole loaf for future cravings. Wrap slices in parchment and then foil, or use a freezer-safe bag. Your Cream Cheese-Filled Banana Bread will keep beautifully for up to 3 months. Just remember to thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying again.

Reheating

Pop a slice into the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds to reawaken that just-baked aroma and creamy filling. You can also toast slices in a toaster oven for a lightly crisp edge that pairs perfectly with melty butter.

FAQs

Can I use frozen bananas in the batter?

Absolutely! Just thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before mashing. Frozen bananas can make the bread even moister, so it’s a great way to use up those extras in the freezer.

What if I don’t have coconut oil?

No problem—just substitute with an equal amount of vegetable oil or even melted butter. Coconut oil adds a subtle tropical aroma, but your Cream Cheese-Filled Banana Bread will still turn out fantastic with other neutral oils.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?

Go for it! Fold in about half a cup of walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips after mixing the dry ingredients into the batter. Just be sure not to add them to the cream cheese filling layer itself.

How do I know when the bread is done baking?

Check by inserting a toothpick or skewer into the center of the loaf. If it comes out with just a few moist crumbs (but no raw batter), you’re good to go! Don’t rely solely on color, as the cream cheese can make a “doneness test” a bit tricky.

Can I double the recipe to make two loaves?

Yes! Just double all the ingredients and divide evenly between two pans. You might need to add a few minutes to the bake time, so keep an eye on the loaves and do the toothpick test before removing from the oven.

Final Thoughts

If you adore banana bread and have a soft spot for cheesecake, you’ll fall head over heels for this Cream Cheese-Filled Banana Bread. It’s the kind of recipe that never fails to impress, yet is comforting and easy enough for any day of the week. Let this loaf be your excuse to grab those ripe bananas and bake up something unforgettable—you’ll be hooked after the very first slice!

Cream Cheese-Filled Banana Bread Recipe