Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread

If you’re looking for a cozy treat to brighten your day, let me introduce you to my Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread. This delightful recipe is a real gem in my collection! It brings together the warmth of pumpkin spice with a luscious cream cheese filling that feels like a hug in every slice. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this bread makes everything feel a little more special.

I love making this Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread during the fall, but honestly, it’s perfect any time of year. The combination of flavors and textures is simply irresistible. Once you try it, I bet you’ll keep coming back for more!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delicious bread without any fuss.
• Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike will adore the sweet cream cheese center that makes each bite heavenly.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Bake ahead for breakfast or snacks throughout the week; it stays fresh and flavorful!
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it plain or dress it up with honey butter or cinnamon-sugar butter for an extra treat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have on hand. Let’s gather what we need to create this scrumptious Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread!

For the Bread Batter:

• 1 large egg
• 1 cup pumpkin puree
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar (packed)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup liquid-state coconut oil (canola or vegetable may be substituted)
• 1/4 cup sour cream (lite is okay; or Greek yogurt may be substituted)
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 teaspoons cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• Pinch salt (optional and to taste)

For the Cream Cheese Filling:

• 1 large egg
• 4 ounces softened brick-style cream cheese (lite is okay)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture that pairs beautifully with the soft bread.
• Mix in Chocolate Chips: If you’re a chocolate lover, adding mini chocolate chips will give your pumpkin bread an extra touch of sweetness.
• Use Different Spices: Experiment with spices like ginger or cloves to customize the flavor profile to your liking.
• Make Muffins: Pour the batter into muffin tins instead of a loaf pan for quick individual servings!

How to Make Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first—let’s get that oven preheated to 350°F. This ensures your bread bakes evenly right from the start.

Step 2: Make the Bread Batter

In a large bowl, combine all the ingredients for the bread batter—from egg to ground nutmeg—and whisk them together until smooth. This step is crucial as it mixes all those lovely flavors together.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

Now, add in the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and optional salt. Gently fold everything together with a spatula. Be careful not to overmix; we want our pumpkin bread light and fluffy!

Step 4: Prepare Your Pan

Spoon about two-thirds of your batter into your greased loaf pan. Smooth out the top lightly so it bakes evenly; don’t worry if it’s not perfect—this will be covered later!

Step 5: Create the Cream Cheese Filling

In another bowl, whisk together all the filling ingredients until creamy and smooth. This filling is what makes our pumpkin bread truly special!

Step 6: Add Filling and Top It Off

Pour your cream cheese mixture over the batter in the pan and gently smooth it out. Then carefully spread the remaining pumpkin batter on top without disturbing that luscious filling.

Step 7: Bake Your Bread

Pop your pan into the oven and bake for about 48 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you want it golden on top and set in the center. The toothpick test can be tricky here due to the filling—just look for moist crumbs instead!

Step 8: Cool Down Before Slicing

Let your beautiful creation cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Wait until it’s completely cool before slicing—it’ll be worth it when you take that first bite!

And there you have it—a delightful loaf of Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread

Baking this delightful pumpkin bread is a breeze with a few helpful tips to ensure it turns out perfectly every time!

• Use fresh pumpkin puree: For the best flavor and moisture, opt for homemade pumpkin puree instead of canned. It gives your bread a vibrant, fresh taste that highlights the seasonal essence of fall.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Mixing too vigorously can lead to dense bread. Gently fold the ingredients until just combined to maintain a light and fluffy texture.

• Check for doneness carefully: Because of the cream cheese filling, using a toothpick may not always give accurate results. Instead, look for a domed top that’s golden brown and feels firm yet slightly springy when touched.

• Let it cool completely: Allowing the bread to cool fully on a wire rack enhances its texture and makes slicing easier. This also prevents it from becoming soggy.

• Experiment with add-ins: Feel free to personalize your bread by adding chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits. These additions can elevate your pumpkin bread into something uniquely yours!

How to Serve Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread

Serving this cream cheese-filled pumpkin bread is as fun as making it! Whether it’s for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack, there are plenty of ways to present this delicious treat that will impress your family and friends.

Garnishes

• Chopped pecans or walnuts: A sprinkle of these nuts adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that complements the creamy filling beautifully.
• Cinnamon sugar sprinkle: Dusting some cinnamon sugar on top right before serving gives the bread an extra touch of sweetness and enhances its autumn aroma.
• Whipped coconut cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream on each slice adds a creamy contrast that pairs wonderfully with the rich flavors of pumpkin and cream cheese.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits like apples, pears, and berries provides a refreshing balance to the richness of the pumpkin bread.
• Hot coffee or spiced chai: Pairing slices with warm beverages like coffee or chai infuses your meal with cozy flavors that complement the spices in the bread.
• Yogurt parfait: Layering yogurt with granola and fruit creates a deliciously creamy side that contrasts nicely with the dense texture of the pumpkin bread.
• Savory cheese platter: A selection of mild cheeses can serve as an interesting counterpoint to sweet flavors while adding depth to your breakfast or brunch spread.

Enjoy making and sharing this delightful Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread! It’s sure to become a favorite in your home during those crisp autumn days.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread is perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a batch ahead of time, making it an excellent option for busy mornings or cozy fall gatherings. Here’s how to store it properly so you can enjoy every slice.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the bread to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place the wrapped bread in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag.
• Store at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

• Cool the bread completely and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place the wrapped bread in a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
• For best results, slice the bread before freezing; this makes it easier to thaw individual portions.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen slices of pumpkin bread in the refrigerator overnight.
• To reheat, place slices in a toaster or toaster oven until warmed through (about 3-5 minutes).
• Alternatively, you can warm them in a microwave for about 15-20 seconds per slice.

FAQs

If you have some questions about making this delicious pumpkin bread, you’re not alone! Here are some commonly asked questions to help guide you.

Can I use something other than cream cheese for filling in the Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread?

Absolutely! If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, consider using a vegan cream cheese alternative. Just make sure it’s spreadable and suitable for baking.

How do I know when my Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread is done baking?

Because of the cream cheese layer, it can be tricky! Look for a domed and golden top. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Remember, the cream cheese won’t solidify completely.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to my Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread?

Yes! Feel free to mix in some chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans, or even chocolate chips if that’s your thing. Just fold them into the batter gently after combining all other ingredients.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find this Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread recipe as delightful as I do! It’s perfect for sharing with family and friends during those cozy autumn days. Enjoy every bite of that creamy center paired with warm spices. I can’t wait for you to try making it—happy baking!