Description of this recipe:
This delicious pumpkin cream cheese bread is the perfect treat for autumn! Moist, spiced pumpkin bread with a creamy, sweetened cream cheese filling—ideal for breakfast, dessert, or a snack. The combination of warm spices and creamy filling creates a delightful experience for your taste buds.
Why you will love this recipe:
You will love this pumpkin cream cheese bread for its incredible flavor and texture. The moist pumpkin bread, infused with spices, pairs beautifully with the rich, velvety cream cheese filling. This recipe is not only simple to make but also perfect for sharing with family and friends during the fall season. Whether enjoyed alongside a cup of coffee in the morning or as a comforting dessert after dinner, this bread is sure to become a seasonal favorite in your household.
Introduction:
As the leaves turn vibrant shades of orange and gold, and the air becomes crisp, it’s time to embrace the flavors of fall. One of the most iconic ingredients of this season is pumpkin, which brings warmth and comfort to a variety of dishes. This pumpkin cream cheese bread is a delightful way to celebrate autumn, combining the rich flavor of pumpkin with the creamy sweetness of cream cheese. It’s not just a treat; it’s a cozy experience that warms the heart and soul. Perfect for breakfast, a midday snack, or dessert, this bread will fill your kitchen with the inviting aroma of spices and baked goodness.
Ingredients:
For the Pumpkin Batter:
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice (or 1 teaspoon each of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and ½ teaspoon ground cloves)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cream Cheese Filling:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Preparation:
Step 1:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan and line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and pumpkin pie spice until well combined. This mixture will provide the structure and flavor for your pumpkin bread.
Step 3:
In a large bowl, mix the granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. This wet mixture will be the base of your pumpkin batter, bringing moisture and sweetness.
Step 4:
Gradually add the dry ingredients from the medium bowl to the wet mixture, folding gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense bread. The batter should be thick and well-blended.
Step 5:
In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the granulated sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. This will be your luscious cream cheese filling.
Step 6:
Pour half of the pumpkin batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly across the bottom. Next, add the cream cheese filling, spreading it gently over the pumpkin batter. Finally, top with the remaining pumpkin batter, spreading it gently to cover the cream cheese layer. If desired, use a knife to swirl the layers together for a marbled effect.
Step 7:
Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top of the bread browns too quickly, tent it with aluminum foil to prevent burning.
Step 8:
Once baked, cool the bread in the pan for 15 minutes before lifting it out using the parchment paper. Allow it to cool completely on a wire rack before slicing.
Serving Suggestions:
This pumpkin cream cheese bread is delicious on its own, but you can elevate it by serving it with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce. Pair it with a hot cup of spiced chai or pumpkin spice latte for a truly autumnal experience. It also makes a wonderful gift when wrapped in cellophane and tied with a ribbon.
Tips:
- For an extra touch of flavor, consider adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the pumpkin batter.
- Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature for a smoother filling.
- This bread can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerated for up to a week. It also freezes well; just wrap it tightly and store it in a freezer-safe bag.
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cook Time:
50-60 minutes
Total Time:
About 1 hour 15 minutes
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: Approximately 250 per slice
- Protein: 4g
- Sodium: 150mg
Conclusion:
This fall-inspired pumpkin cream cheese bread is a delightful way to celebrate the season’s flavors. With its moist, spiced pumpkin base and rich cream cheese filling, it’s a treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, looking for a cozy breakfast option, or simply craving something sweet, this bread is sure to satisfy. Enjoy each slice with friends and family, and watch as it becomes a beloved staple in your autumn baking repertoire.
Questions and Answers about this recipe:
Q1: Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?
A1: Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin! Make sure to cook and puree the pumpkin until smooth. You’ll need about 1 cup of pureed fresh pumpkin for this recipe.
Q2: How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A2: To make this pumpkin cream cheese bread gluten-free, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that the blend you choose is suitable for baking, as some may behave differently than regular flour.
Q3: What can I do if my cream cheese filling is too thick?
A3: If your cream cheese filling is too thick, you can add a splash of milk or cream to loosen it up. Beat it again until you reach your desired consistency.
Q4: Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to the batter?
A4: Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans would add a lovely crunch, and chocolate chips would provide a sweet surprise. Just fold them into the pumpkin batter before layering.
Q5: How should I store the leftover bread?
A5: Store any leftover pumpkin cream cheese bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze it for up to three months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving.