Why You Will Love This Recipe
If you’re a fan of citrus desserts, this Lemon Cream Cheese Bread is a must-try. The combination of tangy lemon and rich cream cheese creates a harmonious balance that’s both refreshing and indulgent. This recipe is straightforward and requires minimal prep time, making it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced bakers. Plus, the optional glaze adds an extra layer of sweetness that elevates this bread to a whole new level!
Ingredients:
For the Bread:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened to room temperature)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt)
- Zest and juice of 1 large lemon (about 2 tablespoons zest and 2 tablespoons juice)
For the Cream Cheese Swirl:
- 4 oz cream cheese (softened to room temperature)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the bread once it’s baked.
Step 2: Make the Bread Batter
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This dry mixture will provide the structure for your bread. Set this bowl aside.
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 2 to 3 minutes. This step is crucial as it incorporates air into the batter, resulting in a lighter texture.
Next, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Follow this with the sour cream, lemon zest, and lemon juice, mixing until the batter is smooth.
Finally, gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be cautious not to overmix, as this can lead to a denser bread.
Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Swirl
In a separate bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, egg yolk, and vanilla extract. Beat these ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This will create the delicious swirl that adds richness to the bread.
Step 4: Assemble the Bread
Pour half of the prepared bread batter into the greased loaf pan, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
Dollop the cream cheese mixture over this batter, and then use a knife or skewer to gently swirl it into the batter. This creates that beautiful marbled effect.
Top with the remaining bread batter, spreading it evenly to cover the cream cheese layer completely.
Step 5: Bake the Bread
Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the bread; it should come out clean (it’s okay if some cream cheese swirl sticks to it).
Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. After that, carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 6: Add the Glaze (Optional)
If you’d like to add a sweet glaze, whisk together the powdered sugar and lemon juice in a small bowl until smooth. Adjust the consistency to your liking by adding more powdered sugar for thickness or more lemon juice for a thinner glaze. Drizzle this over the cooled bread for an extra burst of lemony sweetness.
Serving Suggestions:
This Lemon Cream Cheese Bread is delightful on its own, but you can also serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a side of fresh berries for a refreshing contrast. Pair it with a cup of tea or coffee for a perfect afternoon snack or enjoy it as a sweet breakfast treat.
Tips:
- Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for the best texture in the batter.
- Fresh lemon juice and zest will yield the best flavor, so avoid bottled lemon juice if possible.
- This bread can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- You can freeze the bread for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before freezing.
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cook Time:
50–60 minutes
Total Time:
1 hour 10 minutes (plus cooling time)
Nutritional Information:
Calories: 250 (per slice, based on 12 slices)
Protein: 3g
Sodium: 150mg
Conclusion
This Lemon Cream Cheese Bread is not only easy to make but also a crowd-pleaser that brings a burst of sunshine to any table. Its moist texture and delightful flavor make it perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a brunch or enjoying a quiet afternoon at home. Once you try this recipe, you’ll understand why it’s destined to become a staple in your baking collection.
Questions and Answers:
Q1: Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
A1: Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour, but the texture may be denser. You might want to use a mix of both for a lighter result.
Q2: Is there a dairy-free option for this recipe?
A2: Absolutely! You can use dairy-free butter and a plant-based cream cheese alternative, along with a dairy-free yogurt substitute.
Q3: How can I store the leftovers?
A3: Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze it for longer storage.
Q4: Can I add nuts or other fruits to the recipe?
A4: Yes! Feel free to add chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, or even blueberries for a fruity twist. Just fold them into the batter gently before baking.
Q5: What can I serve with this bread?
A5: This bread pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments, including whipped cream, fresh berries, or a cup of your favorite tea or coffee. Enjoy it as part of a brunch spread or as a sweet snack any time of day!
