Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread

If you’re looking for a cozy treat that perfectly captures the essence of fall, you’ve come to the right place! This Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread is not just your ordinary pumpkin bread; it has a delightful cheesecake layer that makes each slice feel special. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dessert or a sweet addition to your family gatherings, this recipe will steal the show every time. The blend of warm spices and creamy filling creates a comforting dish that’s sure to bring smiles to everyone around the table.

You’ll find this recipe super easy to follow, and it makes your kitchen smell amazing as it bakes. There’s something about the combination of pumpkin and cream cheese that makes this bread irresistible. Trust me, once you try a slice, you’ll be reaching for a second!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and cream cheese creates a unique taste that’s both sweet and savory.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Great for Sharing: This loaf serves up to 10 people, making it an excellent choice for gatherings or potlucks.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it plain or dress it up with honey butter or cinnamon-sugar butter for an extra treat!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Bake it in advance and store it for those moments when you need a tasty snack or dessert.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients! You probably have most of these in your pantry already. This Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread uses basic staples but brings them together in a way that feels special.

• 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)
• 4 ounces softened brick-style cream cheese (lite is okay)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for the filling)
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for the filling)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Don’t hesitate to get creative with these ideas:

• Add Nuts: For some crunch, toss in chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter before baking.
• Chocolate Swirl: Mix in some cocoa powder into half of the batter for a delicious chocolate twist.
• Spice It Up: Feel free to increase the spices if you love a stronger flavor profile. A hint of ginger can add warmth!
• Fruit Additions: Fold in some raisins or dried cranberries for added sweetness and texture.

How to Make Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first—preheat your oven to 350°F. This step ensures that your bread cooks evenly. While it’s heating up, spray a 9×5-inch loaf pan with floured cooking spray or grease and flour it well. Set it aside so you can focus on mixing your ingredients.

Step 2: Make the Bread Batter

In a large bowl, combine your first ten ingredients—everything from the egg through ground nutmeg. Whisk until everything is well blended. This mixture is what gives your bread its rich pumpkin flavor!

Next, gently fold in the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and optional salt until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want our bread light and fluffy!

Step 3: Prepare the Pan

Pour about two-thirds of the batter into your prepared pan. Smooth out the top lightly with a spatula, pushing it into corners and sides if needed. This forms the base layer where all that creamy goodness will sit.

Step 4: Make the Cream Cheese Filling

Now let’s whip up that luscious cream cheese filling! In another bowl, combine all the filling ingredients and whisk until smooth. If you have a hand mixer, feel free to use that for an even creamier texture.

Step 5: Layer It Up

Pour the cream cheese mixture evenly over the pumpkin batter in your pan. Use your spatula again to smooth out any bumps; it should look pretty even across the top.

Next, carefully dollop on the remaining pumpkin batter over the filling layer. Remember to be gentle so you don’t disturb that lovely cream cheese!

Step 6: Bake Your Bread

Pop your loaf into the preheated oven and bake for about 48 minutes—or until it’s golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Keep an eye on it because cream cheese doesn’t set like regular cake batter!

Step 7: Cool Down

Once baked, allow your bread to cool in its pan for about 15 minutes before transferring it onto a wire rack. Letting it cool completely before slicing helps maintain its shape.

This Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread is perfect for breakfast or dessert—and trust me, everyone will be asking for your secret recipe! Enjoy every slice!

Pro Tips for Making Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread

Baking can be a delightful adventure, and with a few simple tips, you can ensure your pumpkin bread turns out perfectly every time!

• Use fresh ingredients – Fresh pumpkin puree and baking powder lead to better flavor and texture. If using canned pumpkin, make sure it’s 100% pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling.

• Don’t overmix the batter – Overmixing can lead to dense bread. Mix just until combined for a light and fluffy texture.

• Test for doneness wisely – Since the cream cheese filling makes testing tricky, look for a domed, golden top. A toothpick should come out with a few moist crumbs but no wet batter.

• Cool before slicing – Allowing the bread to cool in the pan helps it set properly, making slicing easier without crumbling.

• Store properly – To keep your pumpkin bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate for up to a week.

How to Serve Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread

This Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread is not just delicious; it’s also versatile! Whether you’re serving it as a breakfast treat or an afternoon snack, these ideas will help present it beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts – Sprinkle some toasted walnuts or pecans on top for added crunch and flavor.
• Powdered sugar dusting – A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a sweet touch and looks lovely against the golden-brown bread.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad – A colorful mix of seasonal fruits like apples, pears, and berries offers a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the bread.
• Greek yogurt with honey – This creamy side complements the sweetness of the pumpkin bread while adding protein and tanginess.
• Herbal tea or spiced chai – A warm beverage pairs perfectly with this cozy bread, enhancing its autumnal flavors and creating a comforting experience.
• Maple syrup drizzle – For an extra indulgent touch, serve slices drizzled with maple syrup for a sweet finish that enhances the overall taste.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread will not only taste amazing but also look inviting on any table! Enjoy every slice!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week.

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.
• For longer freshness, place it in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

• Slice the bread into individual pieces for easy thawing.
• Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
• To prevent freezer burn, ensure as much air as possible is removed from the bag before sealing.

Reheating

• Remove slices from the freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
• For quick reheating, microwave a slice for about 15-20 seconds or until warm.
• Alternatively, reheat in a toaster oven at 350F for about 5-10 minutes, or until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delightful recipe!

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

Using pumpkin pie filling is not recommended because it contains added spices and sugars that can alter the flavor and texture of your bread. Stick with plain pumpkin puree for the best results!

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

Since cream cheese doesn’t solidify completely, check your bread by looking for a domed top that’s golden brown and set. A toothpick inserted should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter.

Can I substitute other oils for coconut oil in this recipe?

Yes! You can replace coconut oil with canola or vegetable oil without affecting the flavor or texture of the bread.

What can I serve with my Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread?

This delicious bread pairs wonderfully with honey butter, cinnamon-sugar butter, or vanilla browned butter glaze for extra indulgence!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited to bake this Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread as I am! Its rich flavors and creamy filling make it a special treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy sharing it with friends and family or savoring it all on your own—either way, you’re in for a delightful experience. Happy baking!