Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread

If you’re looking for a cozy, delightful treat to enjoy this fall, let me introduce you to my favorite Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread. This recipe has been a staple in my kitchen for years, and every time I bake it, the warm aroma fills my home with the scents of cinnamon and nutmeg. The best part? Each slice reveals a luscious cream cheese filling that takes this bread to the next level. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, it’s a dish that brings everyone together.

This recipe is not just about flavor; it’s also about comfort and nostalgia. Whether served as a breakfast treat or an afternoon snack, this pumpkin bread has a special way of making any moment feel like a celebration. So grab your mixing bowl, and let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, this pumpkin bread comes together quickly.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the creamy surprise in each bite!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can bake this bread in advance and enjoy it throughout the week.
• Deliciously Moist: Thanks to the pumpkin puree and cream cheese filling, every slice is soft and flavorful.
• Versatile Serving Options: Whether enjoyed plain or with spreads like honey butter, it’s always a hit!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for this Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread are wholesome and easy to find. You might even have most of them in your pantry already! Let’s gather everything we need for this delicious treat.

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 Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread is quite flexible! Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Add Nuts: Stir in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
• Spice It Up: If you love extra warmth, add a pinch of ground ginger or cloves to the spice mix.
• Chocolate Swirl: Incorporate chocolate chips into the batter for a sweet twist!
• Glaze It: Drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk after baking for an extra touch of sweetness.

How to Make Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. This ensures that your bread bakes evenly and rises beautifully while you’re preparing the batter.

Step 2: Prepare the Loaf Pan

Spray one 9×5-inch loaf pan with floured cooking spray or grease it with oil and dust it with flour. This step is crucial because it prevents your pumpkin bread from sticking to the pan.

Step 3: Make the Bread Batter

In a large bowl, whisk together your first ten ingredients—everything from the egg through ground nutmeg. This creates a lovely base for your pumpkin bread. Then gently fold in the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and optional salt until just combined. Overmixing can lead to dense bread, so be gentle here!

Step 4: Add Batter to Pan

Turn about two-thirds of the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Smooth it out lightly with a spatula—it doesn’t have to be perfect! Just make sure it’s evenly distributed.

Step 5: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling

In another bowl, combine all the filling ingredients: one egg, cream cheese, sugar, and flour. Whisk until smooth—this mixture will create that delightful creamy layer in our bread.

Step 6: Layering Time!

Pour the cream cheese filling over your batter in an even layer. Use a spatula again to smooth it out gently without disturbing the bottom layer too much.

Step 7: Top It Off

Now take the remaining pumpkin batter and carefully spread it on top of the cream cheese filling. Use your spatula lightly once more—this helps keep that gorgeous filling intact while baking.

Step 8: Bake Away!

Pop your loaf pan into the oven for about 48 minutes. Keep an eye on it! You want that beautiful dome shape on top—golden brown but not too dark—and remember that toothpick test might come out tricky due to our cream cheese layer!

Step 9: Cool Before Slicing

Once baked, let your bread cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before turning it out onto a wire rack. Cooling is important as it allows flavors to meld together beautifully before you slice into it.

Step 10: Serve!

Slice up your delicious Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread! Enjoy as is or serve with honey butter or cinnamon-sugar butter for an extra treat.

Now you have all you need to whip up this delightful recipe! Enjoy every single bite!

Pro Tips for Making Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread

Creating the perfect Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread is easier than you think! With a few simple tips, you can elevate your baking game.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Allow your cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream to come to room temperature before mixing. This ensures a smooth batter and even distribution of flavors.

• Don’t overmix the batter: When combining the dry ingredients with the wet, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to dense bread rather than the light, fluffy texture we all love.

• Check for doneness carefully: Since the cream cheese filling can make toothpick tests tricky, start checking at around 45 minutes. Look for a golden top and set center; this will help avoid underbaking.

• Cool before slicing: Patience is key! Letting the bread cool in the pan for about 15 minutes and then on a wire rack prevents it from becoming soggy and allows flavors to meld beautifully.

How to Serve Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread

Serving this delightful pumpkin bread is all about creativity and presentation! Here are some ideas to make your dish even more irresistible.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting: A light sprinkle of powdered sugar not only adds a sweet touch but also gives a lovely visual contrast against the warm pumpkin bread.
• Chopped nuts: Add some toasted pecans or walnuts on top for added crunch and flavor. They complement the creamy filling beautifully!

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A colorful medley of seasonal fruits adds freshness and acidity that balances the sweetness of the pumpkin bread.
• Yogurt parfaits: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a nutritious side that pairs well with the rich flavors of your pumpkin bread.
• Hot spiced cider: The warm spices in cider echo those in your bread, making it a cozy accompaniment, especially during fall gatherings.
• Creamy soup: A bowl of roasted butternut squash or tomato basil soup can provide a savory counterpoint to the sweetness of your dessert-like bread.

Enjoy experimenting with these serving suggestions, and watch as your Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread becomes an instant favorite at any gathering!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread is perfect for meal prep! You can enjoy it fresh or store it for later, making it a versatile treat for any occasion.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Label with the date, and freeze for up to 3 months.
• For best results, slice before freezing so you can take out individual pieces as needed.

Reheating

• To reheat slices, unwrap and place them on a microwave-safe plate.
• Microwave for 15-30 seconds or until warmed through.
• Alternatively, reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until heated thoroughly.

FAQs

If you have questions about this delicious recipe, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.

Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree in Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread?

While you can use pumpkin pie filling, it contains added sugars and spices which may alter the flavor. For the best results, stick with plain pumpkin puree.

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

The top should be domed and golden brown. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Remember that the cream cheese filling will keep it slightly softer than typical bread!

Can I substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream in this recipe?

Yes! Greek yogurt works well as a substitute for sour cream. It will give your Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread a lovely texture and flavor.

How long does Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, your bread will last about a week in the fridge.

Final Thoughts

This Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread is truly special—it’s moist, flavorful, and has that delightful surprise of creamy goodness in every bite! I hope you enjoy making this comforting fall treat as much as I do. Whether it’s for breakfast or a sweet afternoon snack, this bread is sure to bring joy to your table. Happy baking!