Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread

If you’re looking for a cozy, delicious treat that screams fall, then let me introduce you to my favorite Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread! This delightful recipe combines the warmth of spices and the rich flavor of pumpkin with a creamy filling that feels like a hug in every slice. Whether you’re hosting friends for a casual gathering or simply need something sweet to enjoy on a busy weeknight, this bread will make you feel right at home.

What makes this recipe so special is its incredible balance of flavors and textures. The pumpkin bread is moist and tender, while the cream cheese filling adds a luscious twist that will have everyone asking for seconds. Plus, it’s easy to whip up! Let’s dive into why you’ll love making this Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can have this delicious bread baking in your oven in no time.
• Family-friendly appeal: Kids and adults alike will love the soft texture and sweet cream cheese center.
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack, this bread fits right in.
• Make-ahead friendly: You can bake it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week—if it lasts that long!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is part of the fun! For this Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread, you’ll use simple and wholesome ingredients that are likely already in your pantry. Here’s what you need:

• 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
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Add nuts: Fold in some chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and flavor.
• Swap in chocolate: If you’re a chocolate lover, add some chocolate chips to the batter for a delightful twist.
• Switch up the spices: Try using different spices like ginger or cloves to personalize your flavor profile.
• Make muffins instead: Use muffin tins instead of a loaf pan for individual servings—perfect for sharing!

How to Make Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. This is an important step! A hot oven ensures that your pumpkin bread rises beautifully as it bakes.

Step 2: Prepare Your Pan

Spray one 9×5-inch loaf pan with floured cooking spray or grease and flour it. This will help your bread release easily once it’s baked.

Step 3: Make the Bread Batter

In a large bowl, combine your first ten ingredients—from the egg through to ground nutmeg. Whisk them together until well mixed. This combination creates a flavorful base for your pumpkin bread.

Step 4: Add Dry Ingredients

Gently fold in the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and optional salt. Be careful not to overmix; you want everything combined but don’t worry about lumps!

Step 5: Pour into Pan

Turn about two-thirds of the batter into your prepared pan. Smooth out the top lightly with a spatula so it bakes evenly.

Step 6: Make the Cream Cheese Filling

In another bowl, whisk together all filling ingredients until smooth. This mixture is what makes our pumpkin bread extra special!

Step 7: Layer It Up

Pour the cream cheese filling evenly over the batter in your pan. Smooth it out gently so it covers evenly without disturbing the batter below.

Step 8: Top It Off

Now take your remaining pumpkin batter and carefully pour it on top of the cream cheese layer. Smooth it out lightly; we want those layers to stay intact!

Step 9: Bake It!

Place your loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 48 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you want golden tops and set centers—no raw batter should stick to a toothpick when inserted!

Step 10: Cool Down

Once baked, let your bread cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This cooling step helps with slicing later on.

Step 11: Serve!

Once cooled completely, slice into thick pieces and serve! Optionally, pair with honey butter or cinnamon-sugar butter for an extra touch of yum.

Enjoy making this Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread—it’s sure to become a cherished favorite among friends and family!

Pro Tips for Making Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread

Making this pumpkin bread is a delightful experience, and following a few key tips will ensure it turns out perfectly every time!

• Use Fresh Pumpkin Puree: Fresh puree can enhance the flavor profile of your bread, making it taste richer and more vibrant than canned options. If you have the time, try roasting a pumpkin and pureeing it for an incredible difference!

• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mixing too much can lead to dense bread. Just combine the ingredients until you see no dry flour; a few lumps are perfectly fine! This helps keep your pumpkin bread light and fluffy.

• Chill Your Cream Cheese: For easier mixing, ensure your cream cheese is softened but not melted. This ensures a smooth filling that evenly spreads throughout the bread without sinking to the bottom.

• Check for Doneness Carefully: Since the cream cheese filling remains somewhat soft, rely on visual cues like a domed, golden top rather than just the toothpick test. A few moist crumbs are okay—trust your instincts!

• Cool Completely Before Slicing: Letting the bread cool completely before slicing allows it to set up nicely, resulting in cleaner slices that showcase that lovely cream cheese layer.

How to Serve Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread

This delicious Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread is perfect for gatherings or cozy mornings at home. You can present it beautifully and elevate its flavors with some thoughtful additions!

Garnishes

• Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans on top of each slice for added crunch and flavor contrast.
• Whipped Cream: A dollop of dairy-free whipped cream on the side adds a rich texture that complements the pumpkin flavors beautifully.
• Cinnamon Dusting: Lightly dusting with cinnamon before serving adds a touch of warmth and enhances the aromatic spices in the bread.

Side Dishes

• Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad made with seasonal fruits like pears and apples balances out the sweetness of the pumpkin bread while adding a refreshing touch.
• Yogurt Parfait: Layering yogurt with granola and berries creates a delightful contrast in textures that pairs wonderfully with this sweet bread.
• Hot Beverage: Serve alongside a warm cup of spiced chai tea or apple cider for an inviting fall experience that complements every bite!
• Savory Scones: Pairing this sweet treat with savory scones offers a delightful mix of flavors, making for an interesting brunch spread.

Now that you’re equipped with tips and serving suggestions, it’s time to bake this scrumptious Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread! Enjoy every slice as you share this cozy dish with friends and family!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread is perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip up a batch in advance and enjoy its delightful flavors throughout the week. Here’s how to store and preserve your delicious creation.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover pumpkin bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, place it in the refrigerator where it will last about a week.
• Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap or foil before placing them in a container for easy grab-and-go servings.

Freezing

• Allow the pumpkin bread to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap the whole loaf or individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen pumpkin bread overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• For individual slices, microwave for 15-20 seconds until warm, or toast lightly in a toaster oven.
• If reheating the whole loaf, cover it with foil and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delicious recipe!

Can I use other spices instead of pumpkin pie spice?

Yes! You can create your own blend using cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and allspice as alternatives if you want to customize the flavor.

What makes this Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread so special?

The combination of moist pumpkin bread with a creamy filling creates a delightful contrast that elevates this recipe beyond traditional pumpkin bread. It’s like having dessert for breakfast!

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

Since the cream cheese filling can remain soft, check that the top is golden brown and domed. A toothpick inserted into the bread should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter.

Can I substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream?

Absolutely! Greek yogurt works wonderfully as a substitute and adds extra protein while keeping the bread moist.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you give this Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread a try! It’s such a comforting treat that brings joy with every slice. Whether enjoyed warm from the oven or as part of your breakfast spread, it’s bound to become a favorite. Happy baking!