Cream Cheese Strawberry Banana Bread

Cream Cheese Strawberry Banana Bread is a delightful treat that brings together the sweet flavors of ripe bananas and fresh strawberries, with a rich, creamy twist. Picture this: a warm, tender loaf, with the inviting aroma wafting through your kitchen. It’s perfect for breakfast, a midday snack, or even as a dessert. You really can’t go wrong with this recipe! Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up those overripe bananas sitting on your counter. Trust me; once you try this version of Strawberry Banana Bread, it’ll quickly find its way to your regular baking rotation. Let’s dive right in and explore why you’ll fall in love with this easy recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Cream Cheese Strawberry Banana Bread

This recipe combines a perfect blend of flavors with sweet bananas paired with fresh strawberries and creamy goodness from the cream cheese. The result? An irresistible loaf you’ll crave again and again. The amazing texture is another highlight; the cream cheese creates a moist and tender crumb, making every bite a pleasure. Not only does it taste fantastic, but it serves as a versatile treat—perfect for breakfast, a healthy snack, or even a delightful dessert at the end of the day.

What is a Cream Cheese Strawberry Banana Bread

This scrumptious Cream Cheese Strawberry Banana Bread is a delightful quick bread that features ripe bananas and juicy strawberries. Unlike traditional banana bread, the addition of cream cheese elevates the flavor and texture, giving it that extra richness. Nutritionally, this recipe offers wholesome benefits. The combination of healthy fruits paired with the goodness of dairy makes for a satisfying treat without the guilt.

Ingredients for Cream Cheese Strawberry Banana Bread

To whip up this sweet treat, gather the following ingredients:

• 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup mashed bananas (approximately 2 large or 3 small)
• 1 1/2 cups chopped fresh strawberries
• 1 tablespoon flour (for coating strawberries)

Preparing the Cream Cheese Strawberry Banana Bread

Preheat Your Oven

Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is perfect for ensuring an even bake throughout the loaf.

Prepare the Loaf Pans

Next, grease and flour two 8.5×4.5×2.5 inch loaf pans. This step is key, as it prevents the bread from sticking, allowing for a smooth release once baked.

Cream Butter and Cream Cheese

In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and cream cheese together until the mixture is smooth and fluffy. This process adds air, making your bread light and tender.

Add Sugar and Eggs

Gradually mix in 1 1/2 cups of granulated sugar. Then, add the eggs one at a time. It’s important to ensure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next to maintain a good structure.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. This mixture will help the bread rise and create that perfect texture.

Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Now, gradually add the flour mixture to the butter and cream cheese mixture. Stir until just combined, taking care not to over-mix, which can lead to a denser bread.

Incorporate Bananas and Vanilla

Pour in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and add 1 cup of mashed bananas. Mix on low speed until blended. The bananas not only add flavor but also contribute to the moistness of the bread.

Fold in Strawberries

Toss 1 1/2 cups of chopped fresh strawberries with 1 tablespoon of flour. This helps prevent the berries from sinking to the bottom. Then gently fold them into the batter, bringing in those juicy delights.

Divide and Bake

Evenly divide your batter between the prepared loaf pans, smoothing the tops. Bake for about 1 hour, covering the loaves with foil for the last 15 minutes to prevent over-browning. Keep an eye on them; every oven is a bit different!

Cool the Bread

Once baked, transfer the pans to a wire rack and allow them to cool for about 10 minutes. After that, gently invert the loaves onto the rack to cool completely. This cooling step allows perfect slicing later on.

Serving Suggestions

Now, the fun part! Serve your Cream Cheese Strawberry Banana Bread warm, perhaps with a pat of butter or a dollop of cream cheese frosting. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea, making for a lovely afternoon pick-me-up.

Tips for Success

For the best flavor, use overripe bananas. The sweeter, the better! Also, ensure all ingredients, especially eggs and dairy, are at room temperature; this helps create a more uniform batter.

Variations

Feeling adventurous? Consider substituting half the flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier twist. You could also mix in nuts or chocolate chips for added texture and flavor. The possibilities are truly endless!

Storage Tips

To keep your bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For extended freshness, refrigerate it. If you want to save some for later, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months.

Pairing Ideas

This delightful bread is fantastic on its own, but you can also enjoy it alongside fresh fruit or yogurt for a balanced meal. A drizzle of honey or maple syrup adds a sweet touch, making every slice even more irresistible.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen strawberries for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but fresh ones will provide the best flavor and texture.

2. How can I make this banana bread gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, ensuring it’s a 1:1 exchange.

3. Can I add nuts to the batter?
Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans can add a delightful crunch.

4. How do I know when the bread is done?
The bread is ready when a cake tester inserted into the center comes out clean.

5. Can I freeze the banana bread?
Yes, simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months.

Cream Cheese Strawberry Banana Bread is more than just a recipe; it’s an experience filled with flavor, texture, and nutrition. Whether starting your day or enjoying a slice as a snack, this dish is sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen. With every bite, you’ll taste the summer fruits and creamy thriftiness of cream cheese—it’s a delightful creation that your family and friends will rave about!

More Easy Desserts Recipes:

• No-Bake Chocolate Éclair Cake
• Bakery Buttercream Frosting
• White Buttermilk Texas Sheet Cake
• Chocolate Covered Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Cream Cheese Strawberry Banana Bread

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This delightful bread features a mouthwatering mix of ripe bananas and juicy strawberries with a creamy twist. Perfect for breakfast or a comforting snack.

• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: 2 loaves 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup mashed bananas (approximately 2 large or 3 small)
• 1 1/2 cups chopped fresh strawberries
• 1 tablespoon flour (for coating strawberries)

Instructions

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Grease and flour two loaf pans.
• Cream together softened butter and cream cheese until smooth.
• Gradually add sugar, then add eggs one at a time.
• In a separate bowl, mix flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
• Combine wet and dry mixtures without over-mixing.
• Add vanilla and mashed bananas, mixing on low speed.
• Coat strawberries in flour and fold into the batter.
• Divide the batter between the prepared pans and bake for about 1 hour.
• Cool the bread on a wire rack for 10 minutes before inverting.

Notes

Using overripe bananas enhances sweetness.
Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing.
Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.

• Author: Martha
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Calories: 220
• Sugar: 15
• Sodium: 200
• Fat: 10
• Saturated Fat: 6
• Unsaturated Fat: 4
• Trans Fat: 0
• Carbohydrates: 30
• Fiber: 1
• Protein: 3
• Cholesterol: 50