There’s something so comforting about a warm banana muffin—especially one swirled with sweet cream cheese.
These banana muffins with cream cheese swirl are the perfect marriage of soft banana bread and creamy cheesecake, all in one handheld treat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Warm and comforting – classic banana bread flavor in a convenient muffin form
Creamy swirl – the sweet tang of cream cheese adds richness in every bite
Moist and fluffy – perfectly soft thanks to overripe bananas and oil
Easy to make – no mixer required, just simple pantry ingredients
Bakery-style look – beautiful cream cheese swirl makes them feel extra special
Perfect anytime – great for breakfast, snack, or a sweet little treat to share
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Overripe bananas – The riper, the better! They bring natural sweetness and moisture.
Brown and granulated sugar – A combo that balances sweetness and richness.
Vegetable oil – Keeps the crumb light and tender.
Chopped pecans – Add a buttery crunch in every bite.
Cream cheese swirl – Cream cheese, sugar, egg yolk, and vanilla create a cheesecake-like ribbon.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Use room temperature cream cheese so it blends easily.
Swirl gently with a toothpick for that bakery-style effect.
If the cream cheese mixture feels too thick to swirl, thin it out with a splash of milk.
How to Make Banana Muffins with Cream Cheese Swirl
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin pan with paper liners.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set this aside.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, mash the bananas and whisk in both sugars.
Add the egg, oil, and vanilla, whisking until smooth.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry
Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the banana mixture just until combined.
Fold in chopped pecans.
Step 5: Fill the Muffin Cups
Spoon the banana batter into the muffin liners, filling them about ¾ of the way full.
Step 6: Make the Cream Cheese Swirl
In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with sugar, egg yolk, and vanilla until smooth.
If needed, add a teaspoon or two of milk to thin it slightly.
Step 7: Swirl and Bake
Top each muffin with a tablespoon of cream cheese mixture.
Use a toothpick to gently swirl it into the batter.
Bake for 16–18 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Let muffins cool slightly, then enjoy fresh.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.
What to Serve These With
These muffins go beautifully with a warm cup of coffee, a side of fresh berries, or even a drizzle of maple syrup for an indulgent treat.
Variations / Substitutions
Swap pecans for walnuts or leave them out entirely.
Add a few mini chocolate chips for an extra sweet surprise.
Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream in the swirl for a tangier flavor.
Storage & Leftovers
Store muffins in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
For the best texture, bring them to room temperature before eating—or enjoy them slightly chilled for a cheesecake-like bite.
FAQs
Can I freeze these banana muffins?
Yes! Wrap individually and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temp or microwave briefly.
Why is my cream cheese swirl too thick?
Just add a teaspoon or two of milk and beat until it loosens up.
Can I make this without nuts?
Absolutely! Skip the pecans for a nut-free version.
Can I use whole wheat flour?
You can sub half the flour with whole wheat, but they’ll be denser.
How do I know when they’re done?
A toothpick should come out clean from the muffin part (not the cream cheese).
What if I don’t have muffin liners?
Grease your muffin pan well with butter or cooking spray.
Can I use this recipe for a banana bread loaf?
Yes, but bake it in a 9×5 loaf pan for about 50–60 minutes.
Final Thoughts
These banana muffins with cream cheese swirl are one of those recipes that feels special but comes together in a snap.
Whether you’re baking for a weekend brunch or just want to treat yourself on a weekday morning, they deliver flavor and comfort in every bite.
Banana Muffins with Cream Cheese Swirl
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Line muffin pan with liners.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, sugars, egg, oil, and vanilla. Mix well.
- Add dry ingredients into the wet mixture and stir until combined. Fold in pecans.
- Fill each muffin cup ¾ full with batter.
- In another bowl, beat cream cheese, sugar, egg yolk, and vanilla.
- See full steps with tips & photos → https://theboatshedcafe.com/banana-muffins-with-cream-cheese-swirl/
Notes
- Use very ripe bananas (lots of brown spots!) for the sweetest, most flavorful results.
- Don’t overmix the batter once dry ingredients are added—this keeps the muffins tender.
- Add a few chocolate chips or extra pecans on top for a bakery-style finish.
My name is Isabella, and this space was born from years of stirring sauces at sunset, baking cookies while the kids played on the porch, and finding comfort in a homemade meal after long, busy days. Here you’ll find delicious, reliable recipes made with simple ingredients, plus easy step-by-step photos and videos to help you cook confidently at home.