There’s something undeniably comforting about the aroma of freshly baked muffins wafting through your kitchen, especially when they are delightful cream cheese banana muffins. These delectable treats combine the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the luscious creaminess of cheese, creating a moist, rich texture that’s hard to resist. Whether enjoyed as a breakfast delight or a midday snack, the wonderful blend of flavors will surely brighten your day.
Moreover, cream cheese banana bread muffins elevate the traditional banana muffin to new heights, making them a perfect addition to any brunch table or cozy gathering. Easy to whip up, these indulgent delights are a great way to use up overripe bananas while satisfying your sweet tooth. Let’s dive into the recipe that will leave everyone wanting more!
Why You’ll Love These Muffins:
If you’re a fan of moist, flavorful treats, then these Cream Cheese Banana Muffins are sure to delight your taste buds. Combining the richness of cream cheese with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas creates a perfect balance that makes for irresistible muffins. They are incredibly versatile, ideal for breakfast, snacking, or even as a dessert.
One of the best aspects of these muffins is their ease of preparation. In just a few simple steps, you can whip up a batch that your family will rave about. Plus, they’re a great way to use up those overripe bananas lurking in your kitchen. For more banana goodness, don’t forget to explore our best-ever banana bread recipe for a classic twist.
With a soft texture and delightful cream cheese swirls, these muffins not only taste great but also look visually appealing, making them a hit at gatherings. Every bite is packed with flavor, perfect for those who appreciate a little indulgence with their baked goods. Whether paired with coffee or enjoyed on their own, these Cream Cheese Banana Muffins are a must-try!
Ingredients for Cream Cheese Banana Muffins:
These scrumptious Cream Cheese Banana Muffins are a delightful twist on traditional banana muffins, thanks to their creamy filling! To prepare a batch of 12 muffins, gather the following ingredients:
For the Muffins:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 ½ cups mashed bananas (about 3 ripe bananas)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cream Cheese Filling:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 5 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons whole milk
- 2 teaspoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
To enhance your banana baking skills, check out this best-ever banana bread recipe – it’s another fan favorite! These muffins can be savored for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert. Don’t forget to let them cool on a wire rack to appreciate their perfect texture!
How to Prepare Cream Cheese Banana Muffins:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and lining a muffin tin with 12 liners. In a large bowl, mix the dry ingredients: 1½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and ¼ teaspoon of salt. In another bowl, whisk together 1½ cups of mashed bananas, ½ cup of granulated sugar, 1 lightly beaten egg, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Combine the wet ingredients with the dry ones, stirring until just mixed.
For the cream cheese filling, whip 8 ounces of softened cream cheese until smooth, then blend in 5 tablespoons of sugar, 2 teaspoons of whole milk, 2 teaspoons of flour, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla. Fill each muffin liner halfway with batter, add the cream cheese mixture, and cover with remaining batter, swirling for that delightful cream cheese peek.
Bake for 22-24 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean. Allow to cool slightly before transferring to a wire rack. These Cream Cheese Banana Muffins are perfect for breakfast or as a snack, and you can find more delicious ideas like moist banana bread on my blog. For an extra twist, check out this Fresh Banana Cream Cheese Muffins recipe!
Tips for Perfect Cream Cheese Banana Muffins:
Creating delightful cream cheese banana muffins requires attention to details that elevate their taste and texture. First, select ripe bananas; the more speckled they are, the sweeter and more flavorful your muffins will be. Next, make sure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature. This ensures a smooth batter and helps incorporate air for fluffiness. Additionally, consider using a blend of whole wheat and all-purpose flour for a wholesome touch.
For extra moistness, try substituting a portion of the oil with ingredients like applesauce or even yogurt. If you enjoy variations, experiment by adding chocolate chips, walnuts, or even swirl in some additional cream cheese for creamy pockets of goodness. Finally, if you love banana recipes, check out this best-ever banana bread recipe for more inspiration! Avoid overmixing the batter; gentle folding keeps the muffins light and airy. Happy baking!
Serving Suggestions for Cream Cheese Banana Muffins:
Cream Cheese Banana Muffins are the perfect companion for various occasions. Start your day with a warm muffin alongside a fresh cup of coffee or a soothing tea. The cream cheese filling adds a delightful richness that pairs wonderfully with breakfast. For a leisurely brunch, serve these muffins with fresh fruit, such as berries and sliced bananas, to enhance their flavor.
If you want a unique twist, try toasting the muffins slightly and spreading a bit of extra cream cheese on top. This indulgent breakfast treat can also shine at gatherings. For a cozy afternoon snack, pair them with a warm bowl of Easy Tomato Soup for Grilled Cheese. The comforting flavors make this pairing irresistible. Furthermore, consider keeping some muffins on hand for quick grab-and-go breakfasts. They freeze well, so always have a supply ready to delight your taste buds. Enjoy these banana muffins, and let their creamy goodness brighten your day!
Storage Tips:
To keep your delicious Cream Cheese Banana Muffins fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze them in a zip-top bag for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator when you’re ready to enjoy. If you’re a banana bread fan, check out this banana bread recipe for another delightful treat!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
What makes Cream Cheese Banana Muffins moist?
The inclusion of cream cheese is crucial in making these banana muffins wonderfully moist. It adds richness and an extra layer of flavor, complementing the sweetness of ripe bananas. The addition of bananas enhances moisture content, creating a delightful texture.
Can I substitute ingredients in my banana muffins?
Absolutely! You can customize these muffins by using Greek yogurt in place of cream cheese for a tangy flavor. Additionally, using applesauce can diminish fat while retaining moisture.
How should I store leftover muffins?
For optimal freshness, store your Cream Cheese Banana Muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Alternatively, for longer storage, you can freeze them.
Can I add chocolate chips to my muffins?
Certainly! Chocolate chips make a delightful addition, enhancing the sweetness and providing a chocolatey contrast to the creamy banana flavor.
What is the best way to ripen bananas quickly?
To hasten ripening, place unripe bananas in a paper bag at room temperature. For an even quicker method, you can bake firm bananas at 300°F (150°C) for about 15-20 minutes.
Where can I find a great banana bread recipe?
If you’re interested in banana-inspired baked goods, check out this best-ever banana bread recipe. It offers a delicious alternative when you’re craving something sweet and comforting.
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Cream Cheese Banana Muffins: Your New Favorite Snack!
- Total Time: 50
- Yield: 12 muffins 1x
Description
These Cream Cheese Banana Muffins are a delightful blend of moist banana bread and a rich cream cheese filling, perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack.
Ingredients
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon salt
1 ½ cups mashed bananas
½ cup granulated sugar
1 large egg lightly beaten
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
8 ounces cream cheese softened
5 tablespoons granulated sugar
2 teaspoons whole milk
2 teaspoons all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line 12 muffin cups with liners, set aside.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Set aside.
- Whisk together the mashed bananas, sugar, egg, and vanilla in a medium bowl. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and stir until combined; set aside.
- In a large bowl with an electric mixer or the bowl of a stand mixer, whip the room temperature cream cheese on medium speed until smooth.
- Add the sugar, milk, flour, and vanilla, and mix until combined.
- Fill each muffin liner halfway full with the muffin batter.
- Evenly distribute the creamy filling between each muffin. Smooth out the top.
- Add the remaining batter on top of each muffin. Smooth out the top and then take a toothpick and swirl the tops of the muffins so a little of the cream cheese mixture peaks through, creating a cream cheese swirl.
- Bake muffins for 22-24 minutes until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cool for 5 minutes in the muffin tin, then take the muffins out and cool completely on a wire rack.
Notes
This makes a big batch of 12 muffins, but you can easily double it to feed more or halve the recipe as needed. Great for a make-ahead breakfast. This freezes well.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Dessert
- Method: baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 muffin
- Calories: 200
- Protein: 4g
