Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bread: 1 Amazing Recipe

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Pumpkin cream cheese bread has become my absolute favorite fall baking tradition. I remember the first time I tried making it myself; the aroma of cinnamon and pumpkin filling my kitchen was pure magic. This easy pumpkin cream cheese bread recipe is a game-changer for weeknight treats, offering that perfect balance of sweet, spiced pumpkin and tangy cream cheese swirl. It’s a comforting, homemade pumpkin cream cheese dessert that always brings smiles. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bread

This pumpkin cream cheese bread is a baking dream come true! Here’s why you’ll be making it again and again:

Incredible flavor: The combination of spiced pumpkin and tangy cream cheese is simply divine.
Quick and easy prep: You can have this batter mixed and in the oven in under 20 minutes.
Perfectly moist texture: This recipe guarantees a wonderfully moist pumpkin cream cheese bread every single time.
Budget-friendly baking: Uses common pantry staples, making it an affordable treat.
Family-approved: Even picky eaters adore this sweet and comforting dessert bread.
Impressive results: It looks as beautiful as it tastes, perfect for sharing.
Rewarding experience: Baking this homemade pumpkin cream cheese bread fills your home with amazing aromas.
Versatile treat: Great for breakfast, dessert, or a special snack any time of day.

Ingredients for Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bread

Gather these simple ingredients to create a delicious pumpkin cream cheese swirl bread:

1 cup pumpkin puree – make sure it’s pure pumpkin, not pie filling!
1 cup granulated sugar – for sweetness in the bread
2 large eggs – helps bind everything together
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract – enhances all the flavors
1/2 cup vegetable oil – keeps the bread wonderfully moist
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour – the base for our bread
1 teaspoon baking soda – for lift and texture
1/2 teaspoon baking powder – adds extra tenderness
1/2 teaspoon salt – balances the sweetness
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – essential for that warm spice
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg – complements the cinnamon beautifully
For the Cream Cheese Filling:
8 ounces cream cheese, softened – key for the creamy swirl
1/4 cup granulated sugar – sweetens the cream cheese layer
1 large egg – for richness in the filling
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract – adds a lovely aroma to the swirl

How to Make Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bread

Follow these simple steps to create your own slice of autumn heaven. This pumpkin cream cheese loaf recipe is surprisingly straightforward, even for beginners!

Step 1: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, prepare the luscious cream cheese swirl. In a medium bowl, beat the softened 8 ounces cream cheese with 1/4 cup sugar until it’s incredibly smooth and creamy. Beat in the 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until just combined. Don’t overmix; you want a lovely, thick filling.
Step 2: Prepare the Bread Batter
In a separate large bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients for the bread: 1 cup pumpkin puree, 1 cup sugar, 2 large eggs, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1/2 cup vegetable oil. In another bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, and 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. It’s important not to overmix the batter; a few streaks of flour are okay.
Step 3: Assemble the Bread for Baking
Grease and flour a standard loaf pan, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal. Pour about half of the pumpkin batter into the prepared pan. Gently spread the prepared cream cheese filling evenly over the batter. This is where the magic happens, creating that beautiful swirl! Carefully spoon the remaining pumpkin batter over the cream cheese layer, ensuring it’s mostly covered. You can use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the layers together, but don’t overdo it.
Step 4: Baking and Cooling for the Perfect Loaf
Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven. Bake for 50-60 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when a toothpick inserted into the center of the bread comes out clean, with maybe just a few moist crumbs attached from the filling. The top should be golden brown and firm to the touch. Once baked, let the bread cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes before carefully inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling step is crucial for the texture and makes how to make pumpkin cream cheese bread a success.

Pro Tips for the Best Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bread

Want to elevate your pumpkin cream cheese loaf? Try these simple tricks for baking perfection:

Use room temperature ingredients for both the batter and the cream cheese filling. This ensures everything blends smoothly without lumps.
Don’t overmix the batter once the flour is added; a few streaks of flour are fine. Overmixing develops gluten, leading to a tougher loaf.
For a beautiful swirl effect, try using a skewer or thin knife to gently marble the cream cheese into the batter, but avoid over-swirling.
Let the bread cool completely before slicing. This allows the structure to set, making for cleaner slices and a better texture.

What’s the secret to perfect pumpkin cream cheese bread?

The secret to the best pumpkin cream cheese bread lies in the balance of moistness and flavor. Using pure pumpkin puree and oil in the batter guarantees a tender crumb, while the creamy cream cheese swirl adds a delightful tang and richness that complements the spiced pumpkin perfectly. For more baking tips, check out our recipes section.

Can I make pumpkin cream cheese bread ahead of time?

Yes, you absolutely can! You can prepare the batter and cream cheese filling separately and store them covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before assembling and baking. This is a great way to get a head start on your baking. Learn more about our about page.

How do I avoid common mistakes with pumpkin cream cheese bread?

A common pitfall is overmixing the batter, which can make the bread tough. Another mistake is using pumpkin pie filling instead of pure pumpkin puree; always check your label! Lastly, ensure your cream cheese is fully softened for a smooth, lump-free swirl. For more information on ingredients, visit our recipes page.

Best Ways to Serve Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bread

This delightful bread is wonderful on its own, but I love serving it in a few special ways. Enjoying this spiced pumpkin cream cheese bread warm is pure bliss. Try a slice toasted with a smear of butter – it really brings out the warm spices and that creamy tang. It’s also fantastic alongside a steaming cup of coffee or tea for a cozy breakfast or afternoon pick-me-up. For more serving suggestions, see our recipes.

For a more decadent dessert, a dollop of whipped cream or a light drizzle of caramel sauce makes it extra special. It pairs beautifully with a simple side of fresh fruit, like sliced apples or pears, for a balanced treat. You can also find great tips on typography for your own recipe cards.

Nutrition Facts for Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bread

Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional values per slice for this delicious pumpkin cream cheese quick bread:

Calories: 280 kcal
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Protein: 4g
Carbohydrates: 33g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 18g
Sodium: 250mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used. For more details, please visit our privacy policy.

How to Store and Reheat Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bread

Proper storage ensures your delicious pumpkin cream cheese quick bread stays fresh and flavorful. Once your loaf has cooled completely on a wire rack – this is crucial for texture – wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. For short-term storage, place the wrapped bread in an airtight container or a resealable bag. It will stay wonderfully moist and tasty at room temperature for about 3-4 days.

If you want to enjoy this treat for longer, freezing is your best bet. Wrap individual slices or the whole loaf securely in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil or a freezer-safe bag. This helps prevent freezer burn. Properly stored, your pumpkin cream cheese loaf can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply unwrap a slice and warm it gently in a toaster oven or microwave for a few seconds until just heated through. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bread

What is pumpkin cream cheese bread?

Pumpkin cream cheese bread is a delightful quick bread featuring a spiced pumpkin batter swirled with a creamy, tangy cream cheese filling. It combines the comforting flavors of autumn with a rich, decadent texture, making it a popular dessert or breakfast treat. For more information on our baking philosophy, visit our about me page.

Why is pumpkin cream cheese bread popular?

This bread is incredibly popular because it hits all the right notes for fall baking: warm spices, moist pumpkin, and the irresistible contrast of sweet cream cheese. It’s also seen as an approachable and impressive homemade treat that’s perfect for gatherings or simply enjoying a cozy moment. You can find more popular recipes on our site.

Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree?

I strongly advise against using pumpkin pie filling. The filling already contains sugar and spices, which will throw off the flavor balance and sweetness of the bread. Always use plain, unsweetened pumpkin puree for the best results and control over the final taste. For more ingredient tips, see our recipes.

How do I get a good swirl in my pumpkin cream cheese bread?

To achieve a beautiful swirl, ensure your cream cheese filling is soft and spreadable. Pour about half the pumpkin batter into the pan, spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over it, then top with the remaining batter. Use a knife or a skewer to gently marble the layers together. Don’t over-swirl, or the distinct layers will blend too much! For more baking techniques, visit our recipes page.

Variations of Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bread You Can Try

Once you’ve mastered the classic, you might want to explore some fun twists on this beloved recipe. For a quicker treat, consider turning this into a pumpkin cream cheese muffin recipe; just reduce the baking time to about 20-25 minutes, checking for doneness with a toothpick. If you’re craving something a bit more decadent, transform it into a pumpkin cream cheese cake recipe by using a round cake pan and adjusting the baking time accordingly. You can also easily make this recipe gluten-free by substituting a good quality gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the regular flour. For more recipe ideas, check out our recipes.

For a richer flavor, try adding a handful of chopped pecans or walnuts to the batter, or even a touch of pumpkin pie spice to the cream cheese filling for an extra kick of warmth. You can also find information on terms of use on our website.