Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread

If you’re looking for a cozy, delicious treat that captures the essence of fall, then you’re in the right place! This Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread is a true delight. It’s moist, flavorful, and has that wonderful cream cheese layer that feels like a hug in every bite. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this recipe will quickly become one of your favorites.

What makes this pumpkin bread so special? It combines the warm spices we all love with that rich cream cheese filling. Trust me; once you try it, you’ll be dreaming about it long after the last slice is gone!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: This recipe comes together quickly with simple steps, perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Family-friendly: Everyone will adore the sweet and spiced flavors. It’s sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike!
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack, this pumpkin bread fits right in.
• Make-ahead convenience: Bake it in advance and enjoy it throughout the week or share it as a thoughtful gift.
• Deliciously moist: The combination of pumpkin puree and cream cheese keeps each slice incredibly moist and flavorful.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to whip up this delightful Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread. Each component plays an important role in creating that perfect balance of flavor and texture.

For the Pumpkin Bread

• 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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with these variation ideas:

• Add nuts or chocolate chips: Toss in some walnuts or chocolate chips for added texture and flavor.
• Spice it up: Experiment with different spices like ginger or cloves for a unique twist on the classic pumpkin flavor.
• Make mini loaves: Divide the batter into mini loaf pans for cute, individual servings perfect for gifting.
• Glaze it up: Drizzle with a vanilla glaze or sprinkle powdered sugar on top for an extra touch of sweetness.

How to Make Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first! Preheat your oven to 350°F. This step ensures that your bread bakes evenly and rises perfectly. While that’s warming up, spray a 9×5-inch loaf pan with floured cooking spray or grease and flour it. This will help your beautiful bread slide right out when it’s ready!

Step 2: Make the Bread Batter

In a large bowl, combine your first ten ingredients—everything from the egg to ground nutmeg. Whisk them together until well mixed. The key here is to blend them thoroughly for consistent flavor throughout your bread. Next, gently fold in the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and optional salt until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want our bread tender!

Step 3: Prepare the Pan

Now comes the fun part! Pour about two-thirds of your pumpkin batter into the prepared pan. Make sure to smooth out the top lightly so it spreads evenly into all corners. This base layer is essential as it creates a cozy home for our creamy filling.

Step 4: Make the Cream Cheese Filling

In another bowl, add all your filling ingredients—the egg, cream cheese, sugar, and flour—then whisk until smooth. If you have a hand mixer, feel free to use it here! This creamy goodness will really elevate our pumpkin bread.

Step 5: Assemble Everything Together

Pour that luscious cream cheese filling over your batter in the pan. Smooth it out gently so it’s even across the top. Then carefully dollop on the remaining pumpkin batter atop this delicious layer without disturbing it too much.

Step 6: Bake It Up

Pop your pan into the oven and bake for about 48 minutes. Keep an eye on it! You want to aim for a golden top that’s domed nicely while ensuring that when you insert a toothpick into the center, it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs—remembering that our cream cheese will keep things soft.

Step 7: Cool & Enjoy!

Once baked to perfection, let your beautiful creation cool in its pan for about 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Patience is key here—it will be worth every minute! Once cooled, slice and serve as-is or add some honey butter or cinnamon-sugar butter for an extra treat.

And there you have it—a fantastic Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread that’s sure to bring warmth and joy into your kitchen!

Pro Tips for Making Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread

Baking is a delightful adventure, and these handy tips will ensure your pumpkin bread turns out perfectly every time!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing your eggs and cream cheese to room temperature allows for better mixing, ensuring a smooth batter and cream cheese filling that blends beautifully.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Gently folding the ingredients together preserves the bread’s tenderness and lightness. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf, so mix just until combined.

• Check doneness carefully: Since the cream cheese filling keeps the center moist, the toothpick test can be tricky. Instead, look for a domed, golden top and gently press the center of the loaf; it should spring back when fully baked.

• Let it cool completely: Allowing the bread to cool on a wire rack ensures that it slices neatly and retains its shape. Cutting too soon can result in a gooey mess!

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust or add spices according to your taste. A dash of ginger or cloves can bring an exciting twist to this classic recipe!

How to Serve Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread

This Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread is not only delicious but also versatile in how you can serve it. Here are some ideas to elevate your presentation!

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some toasted pecans or walnuts on top for added crunch and flavor contrast.
• Fresh herbs: A few sprigs of rosemary or thyme can introduce an unexpected savory note that complements the sweetness.

Side Dishes

• Apple slices with caramel dip: The crisp freshness of apples paired with rich caramel adds a lovely balance to the sweet pumpkin bread.
• Yogurt parfaits: Layer creamy yogurt with granola and seasonal fruits for a wholesome breakfast option alongside your pumpkin bread.
• Hot drinks: Serve warm pumpkin bread with cozy beverages like spiced chai, hot apple cider, or herbal tea—perfect for chilly autumn days!

With these serving suggestions and tips in hand, you’re all set to enjoy your delicious Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread! Whether it’s for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy afternoon snack, this recipe will surely become a favorite in your household. Happy baking! 🍞🎃

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time for a quick breakfast or snack throughout the week. Here’s how to store and preserve its freshness:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the bread to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

Freezing

• Slice the pumpkin bread once it has cooled completely.
• Wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag or container, where they can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat, remove the desired number of slices from the freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
• For a quick warm-up, pop them into a toaster oven or microwave for about 15-30 seconds until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delicious recipe!

Can I use other sweeteners instead of sugar in Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread?

Yes! You can substitute brown sugar or granulated sugar with alternatives like coconut sugar or maple syrup. Just adjust the quantity as needed since liquid sweeteners may require additional dry ingredients.

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

Look for a domed, golden top that feels set when lightly touched. Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean with a few moist crumbs, your bread is ready!

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

Absolutely! Feel free to fold in chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans, or even chocolate chips into the batter before baking for added texture and flavor.

What can I serve with Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread?

This pumpkin bread pairs wonderfully with honey butter, cinnamon-sugar butter, or a drizzle of vanilla browned butter glaze. Enjoy it as is, or elevate your serving experience!

Final Thoughts

I hope this Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread brings warmth and joy to your kitchen! It’s such a special recipe that combines the cozy flavors of fall with a delightful cream cheese surprise. Whether you enjoy it fresh out of the oven or as part of your meal prep routine, I know you’ll love every bite. Happy baking, and don’t forget to share this treat with loved ones!