Chocolate Banana Loaf Cake with Cream Cheese Filling

This chocolate banana loaf cake features rich, moist chocolate banana batter layered with a luscious cream cheese filling and topped with caramelized banana slices. A decadent twist on classic banana bread, perfect for dessert or a special breakfast.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Combines chocolate, banana, and cream cheese—three beloved flavors in one loaf.
• Moist and tender texture with bursts of creamy filling in every slice.
• Caramelized banana topping creates a visually stunning finish.
• Great for using up ripe bananas in a creative way.
• Can be made ahead and freezes beautifully.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the chocolate banana batter:

• All-purpose flour
• Unsweetened cocoa powder
• Baking soda
• Salt
• Ripe bananas (mashed)
• Granulated sugar
• Eggs
• Vegetable oil or melted butter
• Vanilla extract
• Milk or yogurt

For the cream cheese filling:

• Cream cheese (softened)
• Granulated sugar
• Egg yolk
• Vanilla extract

For the topping:

• Banana (sliced lengthwise)
• Brown sugar or maple syrup (optional, for caramelizing)

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 175 °C (350 °F). Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine mashed bananas, sugar, eggs, oil, vanilla, and milk or yogurt. Stir until smooth.
4. Add dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until just combined.
5. For the filling, beat the cream cheese, sugar, egg yolk, and vanilla until smooth.
6. Pour half of the chocolate banana batter into the prepared pan.
7. Spoon the cream cheese filling evenly over the batter, then spread the remaining batter on top.
8. Arrange the sliced banana on top. Sprinkle lightly with brown sugar or drizzle with maple syrup if desired.
9. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the cake (avoiding the filling) comes out clean.
10. Cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Servings and timing

Makes 8–10 slices.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Bake time: 50–60 minutes
Cooling time: 30 minutes
Total time: approximately 1 hour 40 minutes

Variations

• Add chopped chocolate or chocolate chips to the batter for extra richness.
• Use peanut butter instead of cream cheese for a different filling.
• Make it nutty by folding in walnuts or pecans.
• Top with a chocolate glaze for a fancier presentation.
• For a dairy-free version, use vegan cream cheese and a plant-based milk.

Storage/reheating

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Let slices come to room temperature before serving, or warm gently in the microwave.
• Freeze wrapped slices for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature.
• Avoid storing at room temperature due to the cream cheese filling.

FAQs

Can I make this loaf without the cream cheese filling?

Yes, you can omit the filling and still enjoy a rich chocolate banana loaf.

What kind of bananas are best for this recipe?

Use overripe bananas with brown spots for the best flavor and sweetness.

How do I prevent the cream cheese layer from sinking?

Layer the filling carefully and avoid overmixing into the batter. Bake at the correct temperature to allow it to set gradually.

Can I make this into muffins?

Yes, divide the batter and filling into muffin tins. Bake for 18–22 minutes or until set.

Can I use whole wheat flour?

Yes, replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber, though the texture will be slightly denser.

How do I know when the cake is done?

Insert a skewer or toothpick into the loaf near the edges or center (but not through the cream cheese layer); it should come out with a few moist crumbs but no raw batter.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, use a gluten-free 1:1 baking flour blend. Make sure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Can I use cacao powder instead of cocoa powder?

Yes, but cacao is more intense—reduce the quantity slightly and taste-test if possible.

Is this loaf very sweet?

It has a balanced sweetness, but you can adjust by reducing the sugar or using darker chocolate.

How do I get the banana topping to caramelize nicely?

Lightly brush banana slices with maple syrup or sprinkle brown sugar before baking.

Conclusion

This chocolate banana loaf cake with cream cheese filling is a delightful fusion of classic flavors presented in a visually elegant form. Moist, rich, and satisfying, it’s perfect for brunches, afternoon treats, or as a show-stopping dessert. A great way to transform ripe bananas into something truly special.

Print