Creating this fantastic Ultimate Cream Cheese Banana Bread is easy when you follow these straightforward steps:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

2. Prepare Bananas: In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth. Set aside.

3. Cream Cheese Mixture: In another bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until well combined.

4. Combine Wet Ingredients: Add the melted butter, brown sugar, and eggs to the cream cheese mixture, followed by the vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and creamy.

5. Mix in Bananas: Gently fold the mashed bananas into the cream cheese mixture, ensuring everything is well combined.

6. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon (if using). Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not over-mix.

7. Add Extras: If desired, fold in the chopped walnuts or chocolate chips for an added twist.

8. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

9. Cool: Once baked, remove from the oven and allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 15-20 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.