Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread

If you’re looking for a cozy treat that combines the warmth of pumpkin with the creamy goodness of cream cheese, then this Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread is just what you need! This recipe is a cherished favorite in my kitchen. Every time I bake it, the delightful aroma fills my home, inviting family and friends to gather around. It’s perfect for any occasion—whether you’re enjoying a quiet evening at home or hosting a lively fall gathering.

What makes this pumpkin bread special is its rich, creamy filling that tastes like cheesecake nestled right in the middle. You’ll find yourself wanting more than one slice, trust me! So grab your mixing bowl and let’s whip up this autumn-inspired delight together!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, even beginner bakers can master this recipe.
• Family favorite: The blend of pumpkin and cream cheese makes it a hit with both kids and adults alike.
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s breakfast, dessert, or a snack, this bread fits beautifully into any part of your day.
• Make ahead: This bread stores well, so you can enjoy it fresh throughout the week!
• Deliciously flavorful: The warm spices complement the pumpkin perfectly for a comforting treat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to make our Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread. These are easy to find and will create a deliciously moist loaf that everyone will love.

For the 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; Greek yogurt may be used as well)
• 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 of 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, allowing you to personalize it to your taste. Here are some creative ideas to switch things up:

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for extra texture and crunch.
• Mix in chocolate chips: For a sweet surprise, fold in some semi-sweet chocolate chips into the batter.
• Spice it up: Add a dash of ginger or cloves for an additional layer of flavor.
• Top with streusel: Sprinkle a cinnamon-sugar streusel on top before baking for a crunchy finish.

How to Make Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures that your bread bakes evenly from the moment it goes in. While that warms up, grease your 9×5-inch loaf pan with cooking spray or butter and flour—this helps prevent sticking.

Step 2: Make the Bread Batter

In a large bowl, combine all the ingredients for the bread batter—from the egg down to ground nutmeg. Whisk everything together until well mixed. Then add in your dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, baking soda, and optional salt. Gently fold these together until just combined. Remember not to overmix; we want our bread tender!

Step 3: Prepare for Baking

Pour about two-thirds of your batter into the prepared loaf pan. Smooth out the top lightly with a spatula and push it into the corners as needed. Setting aside this space allows us to create our delicious cream cheese layer next!

Step 4: Make the Cream Cheese Filling

In another bowl, whisk together all ingredients for the cream cheese filling until smooth. If you prefer an easier mix, feel free to use a hand mixer! Pour this luscious mixture evenly over the batter in your pan. Spread it gently so that it covers but doesn’t disturb the base layer.

Step 5: Top It Off

Now it’s time to add what’s left of your pumpkin batter! Spoon this carefully over the cream cheese filling without disturbing it too much—this layering technique creates that beautiful marbled effect when baked.

Step 6: Bake It Up!

Pop your pan into the preheated oven and bake for about 48 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you want a domed top that’s golden brown and set in the center. A toothpick inserted should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs—not too tricky since our creamy filling stays soft!

Step 7: Cool Down Before Slicing

Once done, let your bread cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. Then turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. This cooling time helps maintain its shape and texture.

Enjoy each slice on its own or pair it with some honey butter or flavored spreads for an extra treat!

Pro Tips for Making Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread

Baking is an art, and with these pro tips, you’ll elevate your pumpkin bread to a whole new level of deliciousness!

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensuring your eggs, cream cheese, and sour cream are at room temperature helps them blend more smoothly into the batter, creating a lighter texture.

• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Gently folding the dry ingredients into the wet prevents gluten from developing too much, which keeps your bread tender and moist.

• Check for Doneness Wisely: Because of the creamy filling, traditional toothpick tests can be misleading. Look for a golden-brown top and a slightly domed shape as signs that your bread is ready.

• Let It Cool Completely: Allowing your pumpkin bread to cool fully on a wire rack before slicing ensures that it holds its shape and prevents sogginess.

• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add in other spices such as ginger or cloves, or mix in chocolate chips or nuts for an extra layer of flavor and texture.

How to Serve Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread

Serving this delightful pumpkin bread is just as important as baking it! Here are some creative ideas to make your presentation shine.

Garnishes

• Chopped Nuts: A sprinkle of chopped walnuts or pecans on top adds a lovely crunch and complements the flavors beautifully.
• Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream gives an airy touch that pairs wonderfully with the dense bread.
• Cinnamon Sugar Dusting: A light dusting of cinnamon sugar on top right before serving adds sweetness and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

• Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits brightens up the plate and adds refreshing contrast to the rich pumpkin bread.
• Yogurt Parfait: Layering yogurt with granola and berries creates a satisfying side that balances the sweetness of the bread.
• Herbal Tea: A warm cup of herbal tea, like chamomile or chai, enhances the cozy flavors of the pumpkin bread and makes for a perfect pairing.
• Pumpkin Spice Latte: For an autumn-themed treat, serve alongside a homemade pumpkin spice latte to complement those warm spices in the bread.

Now that you’re armed with tips and serving suggestions, it’s time to whip up this delectable Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread. Enjoy every slice!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, allowing you to indulge in its delightful flavors whenever you like.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover pumpkin bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• If you prefer a longer shelf life, refrigerate the bread for up to a week.

Freezing

• Wrap the cooled pumpkin bread tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Be sure to label it with the date!

Reheating

• To reheat from frozen, let the bread thaw overnight in the fridge.
• Warm individual slices in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds or until heated through. Alternatively, you can toast slices in a toaster oven for a crispy finish.

FAQs

Here are some common questions readers may have about this delightful recipe.

Can I substitute ingredients in the Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread?

Absolutely! You can use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream and swap coconut oil with canola or vegetable oil. Adjusting these ingredients still yields a delicious result.

How should I store my Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread?

Store your leftover pumpkin bread wrapped in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate it for a week. For longer storage, freeze it!

Can I use canned pumpkin puree for this recipe?

Yes! Canned pumpkin puree works wonderfully and saves time. Just ensure it’s pure pumpkin without added spices or sugars.

How long does this Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread last?

If stored properly, this bread will last at room temperature for about three days, in the fridge for a week, and up to three months if frozen.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread as much as I do! It’s not just a treat; it’s a warm hug on a chilly day. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or savoring it all on your own, each slice is packed with comforting flavors that celebrate the season. So roll up your sleeves and get baking—this delightful bread is sure to become a cherished favorite!