Quick & Fluffy Banana Cream Cheese Muffins Recipe

Banana cream cheese muffins change ordinary breakfast moments into delightful culinary adventures.

Rich, moist textures emerge from unexpected ingredient combinations that dance across taste buds.

These remarkable treats blend comforting fruit sweetness with smooth, tangy dairy undertones.

Each muffin promises a delectable balance between robust banana flavors and creamy cheese nuances.

Soft crumbs promise indulgence without overwhelming complexity, making them perfect for morning routines or midday snack cravings.

Home bakers love how simple ingredients can create such magnificent results.

The magic lies in careful mixing techniques and strategic ingredient proportions.

How to Bake Soft Banana Muffins with Creamy Centers

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan

Warm up the oven to 350°F. Grab a muffin pan and line it with colorful paper liners.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

• All-purpose flour
• Baking soda
• Baking powder
• Salt

Blend these ingredients until they’re perfectly combined. Set the bowl aside.

Step 3: Create Banana Base

• Granulated sugar
• Brown sugar

Crack in an egg, pour vegetable oil, and add a splash of vanilla extract. Whisk until the mixture looks smooth and inviting.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Slowly add the flour mixture to the banana blend. Stir gently until everything is just combined. Sprinkle in chopped pecans and fold them through the batter.

Step 5: Fill Muffin Cups

Scoop the batter into each muffin liner, filling them about three-quarters full.

Step 6: Prepare Cream Cheese Topping

• Granulated sugar
• Egg yolk
• Vanilla extract

If the mixture seems too thick, splash in a little milk to reach a perfect drizzling consistency.

Step 7: Swirl Cream Cheese Topping

Drop a tablespoon of cream cheese mixture onto each muffin. Take a toothpick and create beautiful swirls through the batter. Don’t worry about making it perfect – the uneven pattern will look amazing when baked.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Slide the muffin pan into the oven. Bake for 16-18 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center – it should come out clean.

Step 9: Cool and Serve

Let the muffins cool slightly. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature. Store any leftover muffins in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Pro Tip: These muffins taste even better the next day when the flavors have had time to mingle and develop!

Tips for Moist Muffins That Rise Beautifully

• Mash Bananas Thoroughly: Ensure bananas are completely mashed without large chunks for a smooth, consistent muffin texture.
• Swirl Gently: Use a toothpick to create delicate cream cheese swirls without overmixing, which can make the muffins tough.
• Check Moisture Level: If bananas are very ripe, reduce oil slightly to prevent overly dense muffins.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Bring eggs and cream cheese to room temperature for smoother mixing and better integration.
• Avoid Overmixing: Stir batter just until flour is incorporated to keep muffins tender and light.

How to Store and Reheat Muffins Without Drying Out

• Refrigerate: Store muffins in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Seal tightly to prevent moisture loss and maintain freshness.
• Freeze: Wrap individual muffins in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months for longer storage.
• Reheat: Thaw frozen muffins at room temperature or microwave for 15-20 seconds. Warm in a preheated 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes to restore their soft texture and bring out the cream cheese's creamy flavor.

What to Pair with Banana Cream Cheese Muffins

• Pair with Creamy Cappuccino: The rich, smooth banana and cream cheese flavors complement the frothy espresso perfectly. The nutty pecans add a delightful crunch that matches the coffee's robust profile.
• Match with Cinnamon Vanilla Tea: A warm, spiced tea enhances the muffin's sweetness. The delicate tea notes balance the dense, moist texture of the banana muffins.
• Combine with Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer the muffin with fresh berries and yogurt for a balanced breakfast. The tangy yogurt cuts through the muffin's sweetness, creating a refreshing contrast.
• Serve with Cold Milk: A classic glass of chilled milk brings out the muffin's comforting flavors. The creamy milk smooths the banana's intensity and highlights the cream cheese swirl.

Flavor Ideas to Elevate This Classic Combo

• Nutty Banana Blast: Replace pecans with toasted walnuts or almonds for a different crunch and deeper nutty flavor profile.
• Chocolate Chip Banana Dream: Fold in semi-sweet chocolate chips into the batter for a decadent chocolate-banana combination that adds rich sweetness.
• Tropical Banana Fusion: Incorporate shredded coconut and diced dried pineapple into the muffin batter to create a Hawaiian-inspired tropical version with exotic notes.
• Maple Pecan Banana Splash: Substitute brown sugar with pure maple syrup and add a sprinkle of cinnamon to enhance the warm, cozy flavor of the muffins.

Why Banana Cream Cheese Muffins Are a Bakery-Worthy Treat

• Burst with Banana Richness: These muffins pack an incredible punch of natural banana flavor, transforming ordinary breakfast into a delightful morning treat that celebrates the sweet, ripe fruit's robust taste.
• Creamy Cheesecake Surprise: The swirled cream cheese topping adds a luxurious, tangy dimension that perfectly complements the banana's sweetness, creating a delectable contrast in every single bite.
• Quick and Easy Baking Adventure: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these muffins are perfect for bakers of all skill levels, promising a foolproof recipe that delivers impressive results in under 30 minutes.
• Nutty Texture Delight: Chopped pecans introduce a wonderful crunch and earthy undertone, elevating the muffins from basic to gourmet with minimal extra effort.

Ingredients for Banana Muffins with Cream Cheese Swirl

• All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure and base for the muffins, choose unbleached flour for better texture.
• Baking Soda, Baking Powder: Essential leavening agents that help muffins rise and become light and fluffy.
• Salt: Enhances overall flavor and balances sweetness in the muffins.

• Over-Ripe Bananas: Adds natural sweetness, moisture, and rich banana flavor, darker bananas work best.
• Granulated Sugar, Light Brown Sugar: Provides sweetness and helps with caramelization and moisture.
• Egg: Binds ingredients together and adds richness to the muffin texture.
• Vegetable Oil: Ensures moist and tender muffins, neutral flavor works well.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds depth and enhances overall flavor profile.

• Cream Cheese, Egg Yolk, Granulated Sugar, Vanilla Extract, Milk: Creates a smooth, tangy swirl that adds creamy texture to the muffins.
• Pecans: Provides crunch and nutty flavor, optional but recommended for added complexity.

Banana Cream Cheese Muffins Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 34 reviews

• Total Time: 33 minutes
• Yield: 12 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Banana cream cheese muffins bring comfort and delight to breakfast tables with their moist, tender crumb. Rich cream cheese swirls and ripe banana notes create a perfect morning treat that will satisfy sweet cravings and warm your soul.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 4 medium over-ripe bananas, mashed
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 large egg

Sugars:

• ½ cup granulated sugar (Dixie Crystals Extra Fine Granulated Sugar)
• ½ cup packed light brown sugar (Dixie Crystals Light Brown Sugar)

Dry Ingredients and Add-ins:

• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ cup vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• ½ cup chopped pecans

Cream Cheese Swirl:

• 4 ounces (113 grams) cream cheese, softened
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (Dixie Crystals Extra Fine Granulated Sugar)
• 1 egg yolk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 teaspoons milk (if needed)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Prepare the oven by heating to 350°F (175°C) and arrange paper liners in a muffin pan.
2. Combine dry ingredients in a medium bowl, whisking flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt until evenly distributed.
3. In a separate large mixing bowl, thoroughly mash ripe bananas until smooth and creamy.
4. Incorporate granulated and brown sugars into the mashed bananas, creating a rich, sweet base.
5. Vigorously mix in the egg, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until the mixture becomes uniform and glossy.
6. Gently fold the dry ingredient mixture into the banana blend, stirring carefully to eliminate any flour lumps.
7. Integrate chopped pecans into the batter, distributing them evenly throughout.
8. Prepare the cream cheese topping by beating softened cream cheese until silky and free of lumps.
9. Blend granulated sugar, egg yolk, and vanilla extract into the cream cheese, creating a smooth, luxurious mixture.
10. If the cream cheese becomes too thick, thin it with a small amount of milk to achieve a spreadable consistency.
11. Fill each muffin cup approximately three-quarters full with the banana batter.
12. Delicately spoon about a tablespoon of cream cheese mixture onto the top of each muffin.
13. Use a toothpick to create a marbled effect by gently swirling the cream cheese through the batter.
14. Bake for 16-18 minutes, checking doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of a muffin.
15. Allow muffins to cool slightly before removing from the pan.
16. Serve at room temperature or chilled, storing any remaining muffins in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Notes

• Swirl cream cheese gently into each muffin for a marbled, artistic touch that adds visual appeal and creamy texture.
• Refrigerate leftover muffins to maintain freshness, enjoying them cool or at room temperature for the best flavor experience.
• Pecans provide a delightful crunch and nutty undertone, complementing the soft banana and rich cream cheese perfectly.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 18 minutes
• Category: Breakfast, Snacks, Desserts
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 12 g
• Sodium: 150 mg
• Fat: 8 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 32 g
• Fiber: 1.5 g
• Protein: 3 g
• Cholesterol: 25 mg