Ultimate Banana Bread (Print Version)

Ingredients:

01 - 2 cups all-purpose flour.
02 - 1 teaspoon baking soda.
03 - 1/2 teaspoon salt.
04 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened.
05 - 3/4 cup granulated sugar.
06 - 2 large eggs.
07 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
08 - 4 ripe bananas, mashed (about 1 1/2 cups).
09 - 1/4 cup sour cream.
10 - 8 oz cream cheese, softened.
11 - 1/4 cup granulated sugar.
12 - 1 large egg.
13 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.

Instructions:

01 - Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to ensure the bread doesn’t stick.
02 - In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set this mixture aside for later.
03 - In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and 3/4 cup of granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 3-5 minutes using a hand mixer or stand mixer. Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then, mix in the vanilla extract. Stir in the mashed bananas and sour cream until well combined. The sour cream adds a lovely moistness to the bread. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the bread tough.
04 - In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and 1/4 cup of granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the egg and vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture, beating until well combined and creamy. This will create a rich, smooth filling.

Notes:

01 - A moist and delicious banana bread filled with a rich cream cheese layer, creating a delightful combination of flavors and textures.