Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bread Recipe

If you’re looking for a delicious and comforting recipe to welcome the fall season, this Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bread is just what you need! Combining the warmth of pumpkin spice with a creamy, sweet cream cheese filling, this moist bread makes for the perfect breakfast, snack, or dessert. With its inviting aroma and delightful taste, it’s bound to become a family favorite. Let’s dive into how you can make this delicious bread at home!

What Makes Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bread Special?

Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bread stands out from other quick bread recipes due to its unique flavor combination. The blend of earthy pumpkin, fragrant spices, and a luscious cream cheese layer makes each bite a delicious experience. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is simple enough for anyone to make and enjoy. The rich, moist texture of the bread pairs perfectly with the creamy filling, creating a delightful treat that’s hard to resist.

Essential Ingredients for Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bread

To make this delightful bread, you’ll need a few simple ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Pumpkin Bread:

• 1 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
• 1 large egg
• 3/4 cup light brown sugar
• 1/4 cup oil (vegetable or canola)
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Cream Cheese Filling:

• 1 large egg
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour

How to Make Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bread

Follow these simple steps to create your own Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bread that is perfect for any occasion.

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9 x 5-inch loaf pan with cooking spray and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Pumpkin Batter: In a large bowl, mix together the pumpkin puree, egg, light brown sugar, oil, sour cream, and vanilla extract. Stir until the ingredients are well combined and smooth. Gently fold in the pumpkin pie spice, flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Be careful not to overmix; just combine until no dry flour remains.
3. Layer the Batter: Pour about 2/3 of the prepared batter into the greased loaf pan. Spread it out evenly using a spatula.
4. Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the cream cheese, egg, granulated sugar, and flour until smooth and creamy.
5. Add the Cream Cheese Layer: Gently pour the cream cheese filling over the pumpkin batter in the pan, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
6. Top with Remaining Batter: Carefully spoon the remaining pumpkin batter over the cream cheese layer, spreading it evenly to cover the filling completely.
7. Bake the Bread: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean (a few moist crumbs are fine).
8. Cool the Bread: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Perfecting the Cream Cheese Filling

To make the cream cheese filling extra smooth and creamy, ensure that your cream cheese is softened to room temperature before mixing. This will help it blend more easily with the other ingredients and create a velvety texture. Also, be gentle when layering the cream cheese filling over the batter to keep the layers distinct and prevent them from mixing too much.

Baking Tips for a Perfect Loaf

• Avoid Overmixing: Overmixing the batter can lead to a dense and tough bread. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
• Check for Doneness: Ovens can vary, so start checking your bread at around 40 minutes. The toothpick should come out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter.
• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Room temperature eggs and cream cheese help create a smoother batter and filling.

Avoid These Mistakes When Making Pumpkin Bread

• Using Cold Cream Cheese: Cold cream cheese will not blend smoothly, resulting in a lumpy filling. Let it soften at room temperature.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Correctly: Accurate measurements are key, especially for the flour and leavening agents. Too much flour can make the bread dry, while too little can cause it to collapse.
• Overbaking: Overbaking can dry out the bread. Keep an eye on it towards the end of the baking time.

How to Serve and Present Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bread

This bread is best served at room temperature or slightly warm. Slice it into thick slices and serve it on a wooden cutting board or a decorative plate. For an added touch, dust the top with a little powdered sugar, or drizzle with a light icing made of powdered sugar and milk. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a lovely presentation.

How to Store Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bread

To keep your Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bread fresh:

• Room Temperature: Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerator: For longer storage, keep it in the refrigerator for up to a week.
• Freezer: You can also freeze the bread. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Delicious Variations of Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bread

• Add Nuts or Chocolate Chips: Mix in 1/2 cup of chopped pecans, walnuts, or chocolate chips to the batter for extra texture and flavor.
• Cinnamon Swirl: Add a cinnamon sugar swirl by sprinkling a mixture of cinnamon and sugar over the first layer of batter before adding the cream cheese filling.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

What to Serve with Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bread

Enjoy your Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bread with a warm cup of tea, coffee, or hot cocoa. For a light breakfast or snack, pair it with fresh fruit or a dollop of Greek yogurt. It’s also delicious served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert!

Frequently Asked Questions About Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bread

• Can I Use Pumpkin Pie Filling Instead of Pumpkin Puree?
  No, pumpkin pie filling contains added sugars and spices that can alter the flavor and texture of the bread. Use pure pumpkin puree for the best results.
• How Do I Know When the Bread is Done?
  Insert a toothpick into the center of the bread; if it comes out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs, it’s ready. If there’s wet batter, bake for a few more minutes.
• Can I Double the Recipe?
  Yes, you can double the recipe and bake it in two loaf pans. Make sure to adjust the baking time accordingly and check for doneness.

Enjoying Your Homemade Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bread

Now that you have this delicious recipe, it’s time to get baking! This Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bread is perfect for cozy fall mornings, holiday gatherings, or anytime you crave a sweet, spiced treat. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share it with your friends and family.

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