Discover a Fall Favorite
There’s something truly special about the aroma of freshly baked goods wafting through your home, especially when it’s the delightful scent of pumpkin bread with cream cheese. This recipe captures the essence of fall, combining the warm spices of pumpkin with a rich, creamy swirl of cream cheese that elevates each slice to a new level of deliciousness. Whether you’re enjoying it for breakfast, as an afternoon snack, or as a dessert, this pumpkin bread is sure to become a cherished recipe in your collection. It’s moist, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying, making it a perfect treat for cozy gatherings or a quiet moment with a cup of coffee.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Moist and Flavorful: The combination of pumpkin puree and cream cheese creates a moist bread that’s bursting with flavor.
- Easy to Make: With straightforward ingredients and simple steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a fall gathering, a holiday feast, or a sweet treat for your family, this bread suits any occasion.
- Great for Meal Prep: This bread stores well, making it ideal for prepping ahead of time.
- Customizable: Add your favorite nuts or spices to make it your own!
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Pumpkin Bread
- 1 cup pumpkin puree (canned or fresh)
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Cream Cheese Swirl
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- Mix the wet ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and eggs. Mix until well combined.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Combine wet and dry mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Prepare the cream cheese swirl: In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Layer the batter: Pour half of the pumpkin batter into the prepared loaf pan. Spoon the cream cheese mixture over the batter and use a knife or skewer to swirl it gently. Pour the remaining pumpkin batter on top and create another swirl with the knife.
- Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serving Suggestions
This pumpkin bread with cream cheese is delicious on its own, but you can elevate your serving experience by pairing it with:
- A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert.
- Fresh fruit, such as sliced apples or pears, for a refreshing contrast.
- Nut butter or cream cheese spread for a hearty breakfast option.
- A cup of spiced chai or pumpkin spice latte to complement the flavors.
Tips for Success
To ensure your pumpkin bread turns out perfectly every time, consider the following tips:
- Use fresh spices: Fresh spices can significantly enhance the flavor profile of your bread.
- Don’t overmix: Mix until just combined to keep the bread tender.
- Check for doneness: Ovens can vary; start checking your bread around the 50-minute mark.
- Store properly: Keep the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Variations to Try
If you want to put a twist on this classic recipe, consider these variations:
- Nutty Addition: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a delightful crunch.
- Chocolate Chip Delight: Fold in semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for a sweet surprise.
- Spiced Up: Experiment with adding ginger or cloves for an extra kick of flavor.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a gluten-free version.
Final Thoughts
This pumpkin bread with cream cheese is the ultimate comfort food for the fall season. Its moist texture, combined with the rich creaminess of the cream cheese swirl, makes it a delightful treat for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for yourself or sharing with friends and family, this recipe is sure to impress. So grab your apron and enjoy the cozy warmth of your kitchen as you whip up this seasonal favorite!
