Delicious Lemon Cream Cheese Bread Recipe

Name: Delicious Lemon Cream Cheese Bread Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-480933H2M21S
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup sugar; 3 eggs; 8 oz sour cream; ½ cup canola oil; Zest of 2 lemons; Juice of 1 lemon; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1½ cups flour; 2½ teaspoons baking powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened; ⅓ cup powdered sugar

If you’re looking for a moist and zesty dessert with a rich cream cheese swirl, this Lemon Cream Cheese Bread is the perfect treat. Packed with the fresh taste of lemon and a creamy layer of sweetened cream cheese, this bread is not only a delightful dessert but also a lovely snack with tea or coffee. In this article, we’ll walk you through the detailed steps of preparing this delicious bread, along with tips, variations, and a FAQ section at the end to answer any questions you might have.

What is Lemon Cream Cheese Bread?

Lemon Cream Cheese Bread is a soft and moist quick bread made with lemon zest and juice, creating a tangy flavor that’s balanced with the sweetness of the cream cheese swirl. Unlike traditional breads that rely on yeast, this recipe uses baking powder for leavening, making it a faster and easier option for home bakers. The cream cheese swirl inside the bread adds a rich and creamy contrast to the bright lemony taste, making every bite a delightful combination of textures and flavors.

Ingredients for Lemon Cream Cheese Bread

To make this delectable bread, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Bread:

1 cup sugar
3 eggs
8 oz sour cream

½ cup canola oil
Zest of 2 lemons (adds intense lemon flavor)
Juice of 1 lemon

1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1½ cups flour
2½ teaspoons baking powder

1 teaspoon salt

For the Cream Cheese Swirl:

1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
⅓ cup powdered sugar

These ingredients are simple and likely already available in your kitchen. The combination of the fresh lemon zest, sour cream, and cream cheese makes this bread extra moist and flavorful.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that we have the ingredients ready, let’s dive into the preparation process. Follow these steps to ensure your Lemon Cream Cheese Bread turns out perfectly every time.

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a standard loaf pan with butter or non-stick cooking spray. This ensures the bread doesn’t stick to the pan and comes out clean.

2. Prepare the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the sugar, eggs, sour cream, lemon zest, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and canola oil. Mix until the ingredients are smooth and well-blended. This will create the base of your lemon bread batter.

3. Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Sifting helps remove lumps and ensures that the dry ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

4. Mix the Batter

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until fully combined. Make sure there are no lumps in the batter, but be careful not to over-mix, as this can make the bread dense.

5. Make the Cream Cheese Swirl

In a small bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. This sweet cream cheese mixture will be swirled into the bread for a delightful surprise in every bite.

6. Assemble the Bread

Pour half of the bread batter into the prepared loaf pan. Then, spoon half of the cream cheese mixture on top. Use a knife or toothpick to gently swirl the cream cheese into the batter, creating a marbled effect. Add the remaining batter on top and swirl in the rest of the cream cheese mixture.

7. Bake

Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 65-70 minutes. Check the bread periodically, and if the top begins to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning. The bread is ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

8. Cool and Serve

Allow the bread to cool completely in the pan before slicing. This step is crucial to ensure the cream cheese layer sets properly and doesn’t get smeared when slicing.

Notes and Tips

Use Fresh Lemons: Fresh lemon zest and juice are essential for achieving the best flavor in this recipe. Avoid using bottled lemon juice, as it won’t give the same zesty punch.
Check for Doneness: Every oven is different, so check your bread for doneness around the 60-minute mark. If your bread isn’t fully cooked in the center, let it bake for an additional 5-10 minutes.

Storing the Bread: Store your lemon cream cheese bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also refrigerate it for up to a week or freeze it for up to 3 months. If freezing, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer bag.

Recipe Details

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 65-70 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Yield: 12 slices
Category: Dessert, Snack

Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 320 kcal
Total Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 8g

Cholesterol: 70mg
Sodium: 300mg
Carbohydrates: 35g

Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 20g
Protein: 5g

This bread is a rich treat, perfect for those who love a balance of sweetness and tanginess. While it’s indulgent, it also has a good balance of protein and carbs, making it a satisfying snack.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use a different type of oil?

Yes, you can substitute canola oil with vegetable oil, melted coconut oil, or even melted butter for a richer flavor.

2. Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

Yes, low-fat cream cheese can be used, but keep in mind that it may affect the creaminess of the swirl. Full-fat cream cheese is recommended for the best texture.

3. Can I add other ingredients to this recipe?

Absolutely! You can add poppy seeds, blueberries, or raspberries to the batter for extra flavor and texture.

4. How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, wrap the bread tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.

5. Can I make this bread gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to use a blend that contains xanthan gum for the best results.

This Lemon Cream Cheese Bread is a perfect balance of zesty lemon and rich cream cheese. Whether you serve it as a dessert, snack, or breakfast treat, it’s sure to be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy the moist, flavorful bread and don’t hesitate to experiment with variations to make it your own!