Pumpkin Bread with Lemony Cream Cheese: The Ultimate Fall Recipe
Elevate your autumn baking with this moist pumpkin bread featuring a tangy lemon cream cheese swirl and plenty of seasonal spice.
Autumn is a season for warmth, comfort, and cozy recipes. Few treats embody the spirit of fall as perfectly as pumpkin bread, especially when it’s irresistibly moist and paired with a swirl of lemony cream cheese filling. This recipe offers a flavorful fusion of spiced pumpkin and tangy cream cheese, creating a delightful loaf that stands out at breakfast, brunch, or when entertaining friends and family.
Why Pumpkin Bread is the Perfect Seasonal Treat
Pumpkin bread has become a staple for fall baking, thanks to its rich aroma, tender crumb, and signature earthy-sweet flavor. Pumpkin puree not only imparts depth and color but also locks in moisture, making this bread soft and satisfying with every bite. The addition of lemony cream cheese sets this recipe apart, introducing brightness and tang that balances the warm spices.
- Rich flavor: Pumpkin’s natural sweetness with a blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
- Moist texture: Pumpkin puree helps create a soft, tender loaf.
- Versatility: Enjoy for breakfast, snacks, or dessert.
- Festive appeal: A beautiful loaf perfect for holidays and gatherings.
Ingredient Spotlight
| Core Ingredient | Role in Recipe | Substitutions |
|---|---|---|
| Pumpkin Purée | Provides moisture, flavor, and autumnal color. | Butternut squash or sweet potato purée |
| All-Purpose Flour | Formulates the structure of bread. | 1:1 gluten-free blend for GF version |
| Eggs | Bind ingredients and tenderize crumb. | Egg substitute for vegan/dairy-free |
| Brown Sugar & Granulated Sugar | Sweeten and deepen flavor. | Coconut sugar, maple syrup |
| Pumpkin Spice Mix | Gives warm, spiced flavor. | DIY blend: cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves |
| Cream Cheese | Creates the creamy lemon swirl. | Dairy-free cream cheese |
| Lemon Zest & Juice | Brightens and balances cream cheese filling. | Orange zest for a twist |
Step-by-Step Recipe Directions
The magic of pumpkin bread lies in its straightforward method and the delightful surprise of a cream cheese layer. Follow these instructions for best results:
- Preparation:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175–180°C). Line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper for easy removal and minimal sticking. - Pumpkin Batter:
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs and brown sugar until foamy.
- Add oil, pumpkin puree, sour cream or yogurt, vanilla extract, salt, and pumpkin spice. Mix until well combined.
- Sift in flour, baking soda, and baking powder. Fold to form a thick batter; avoid overmixing to keep the loaf moist.
- Lemony Cream Cheese Filling:
- In a separate bowl, beat softened cream cheese, sugar, lemon zest, a squeeze of lemon juice, and a dash of vanilla extract until smooth.
- Add egg yolk and a pinch of salt; mix until creamy but do not overbeat.
- For a firmer swirl, chill cream cheese mixture for 15-20 minutes before layering.
- Assembly:
- Spoon half of the pumpkin batter into the pan and spread it evenly.
- Carefully spread the lemony cream cheese mixture over the batter, keeping it central for a clean swirl.
- Top with the remaining batter and gently smooth to cover the filling.
- (Optional) Create a swirl effect by gently dragging a knife through the layers.
- Baking:
- Bake for 45–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the bread (not the cream cheese layer) comes out mostly clean. The filling will remain slightly soft.
- Let cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Cool completely before slicing to allow the filling to firm up.
Expert Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Bread
- Do Not Overmix: Mix the batter just until you see no dry streaks. Overmixing can result in bread that is tough or gummy.
- Check Moisture: The toothpick test is tricky with cream cheese filling. Aim for the edges to be dry and the center slightly moist for a tender loaf.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Cream cheese and eggs blend better and make a smoother swirl when not cold.
- Chill Filling: For clean, well-defined layers, refrigerate cream cheese mixture briefly before assembly.
- Spice It Well: Use pumpkin pie spice or a blend of cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves for best flavor.
Variations and Substitutions
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.
- Dairy-Free: Swap in dairy-free cream cheese and unsweetened non-dairy yogurt.
- Sweetener Swaps: Substitute brown sugar for a richer flavor or coconut sugar/maple syrup for a natural touch.
- Flavor Add-Ins: Stir in chopped nuts, pumpkin seeds, dried cranberries, raisins, or chocolate chips for bursts of texture and taste.
- Base Bread Only: Omit cream cheese filling for a classic, moist pumpkin bread loaf.
What others are reading
Serving and Storing Suggestions
- Best Served: Slightly warm or at room temperature, with coffee, tea, or cider.
- How to Store: Wrap bread tightly in plastic or store in an airtight container. Keeps well for 2–3 days at room temperature, or up to 7 days refrigerated.
- Freezing: Pumpkin bread freezes beautifully. Slice and wrap portions individually for grab-and-go treats over several weeks.
Nutrition and Health Benefits
This bread combines healthier ingredients with crowd-pleasing flavor, making it a smart treat for fall:
- Pumpkin puree: Rich in vitamin A, fiber, and antioxidants.
- Spices: Cinnamon and nutmeg add flavor and act as natural digestive aids.
- Reduced sugar: Modest amounts of sweetener can be used for a balanced taste.
- Greek yogurt or sour cream: Adds protein and keeps bread moist.
Tools and Equipment Needed
- 9×5-inch loaf pan
- Large mixing bowls
- Hand or stand mixer
- Whisk and spatula
- Parchment paper
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use canned pumpkin instead of homemade puree?
Yes. Canned pumpkin works perfectly and saves time. Be sure to use pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling.
Why chill the cream cheese filling before use?
Chilling firms up the filling, creating a more defined layer and preventing it from blending too much into the bread while baking.
How do I know the bread is done baking?
Insert a toothpick near the edge (not the cream cheese center); it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs. The filling may remain soft, which is normal.
Can I make this recipe without eggs?
You can substitute eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water or use a commercial egg replacer; results may vary slightly in texture.
What are the best toppings for pumpkin bread?
Pumpkin bread pairs well with a dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of maple glaze, or with a side of spiced whipped cream.
Creative Serving Ideas
- Serve thick slices with a pat of salted butter or cream cheese.
- Top with toasted pecans and a drizzle of honey for elevated flavor.
- Cut into cubes for an autumn-style bread pudding.
- Wrap slices for festive food gifts or lunchbox treats.
Pumpkin Bread for Every Occasion
Whether celebrating Thanksgiving, hosting a fall brunch, or making cozy afternoon snacks, pumpkin bread with lemony cream cheese brings a seasonal touch to your menu. Its moist crumb and balanced flavors ensure it becomes a favorite year after year.
Recipe Recap: Ingredient List
- 2 large eggs
- ¾ cup brown sugar
- ½ cup oil (olive or vegetable)
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- ¼ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tbsp pumpkin spice blend
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp baking powder
Cream Cheese Filling:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 lemon, plus a squeeze of juice
- ⅛ tsp salt
Final Thoughts
Baking pumpkin bread with lemony cream cheese filling is an autumn ritual worth savoring. Its easy preparation, adaptability to dietary needs, and crowd-pleasing taste make it a must-try for bakers of all skill levels. Enjoy each slice, and celebrate the flavors of fall in your kitchen.
References
- https://flouringkitchen.com/pumpkin-cream-cheese-streusel-bread/
- https://abraskitchen.com/cream-cheese-pumpkin-bread/
- https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/pumpkin-cream-cheese-bread/
- https://themodernnonna.com/pumpkin-bread-with-cream-cheese-filling/
- https://www.prevention.com/food-nutrition/recipes/a34715503/pumpkin-bread-with-lemony-cream-cheese/
- https://hungryhappens.net/pumpkin-cream-cheese-bread/
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