Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread

This Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread is the ultimate treat for fall! Its moist texture and rich flavor make it perfect for any occasion, from cozy family gatherings to festive holiday celebrations. With a luscious cream cheese filling that adds a delightful surprise in every slice, this recipe will quickly become a favorite among friends and family.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and cream cheese creates a deliciously rich taste that will have everyone asking for the recipe.
• Perfectly Moist Texture: This bread stays incredibly moist thanks to the pumpkin puree and sour cream, ensuring each bite is soft and tender.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it plain, or elevate your experience with honey butter or cinnamon-sugar butter for an extra touch of sweetness.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can whip up this delightful pumpkin bread without any fuss.
• Great for Sharing: A loaf serves about ten people, making it ideal for potlucks or gifting to friends during the fall season.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×5-inch loaf pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Spatula
• Hand mixer (optional)

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×5-inch loaf pan: The right size ensures even baking, allowing your bread to rise beautifully.
• Mixing bowls: Having multiple bowls helps keep ingredients organized while preparing both the batter and filling.
• Spatula: Ideal for folding ingredients gently without overmixing, which is crucial for maintaining moisture in your bread.

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Ingredients

• 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

How to Make Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×5-inch loaf pan by spraying it with floured cooking spray or greasing and flouring it.

Step 2: Make the Bread Batter

1. In a large bowl, combine the first ten ingredients—egg through ground nutmeg—and whisk until well blended.
2. Gently fold in the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and optional salt using a spatula or spoon. Mix until just combined; avoid overmixing.

Step 3: Prepare the Pan

Turn about two-thirds of the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Smooth the top lightly with a spatula, making sure it reaches all corners.

Step 4: Make the Cream Cheese Filling

1. In another bowl, mix together all filling ingredients until smooth. You can use a whisk or hand mixer for ease.
2. Pour this cream cheese mixture evenly over the layer of pumpkin batter in the pan.

Step 5: Add Remaining Batter

Top the cream cheese filling with the remaining pumpkin batter. Smooth it lightly on top without disturbing the cream cheese layer.

Step 6: Bake

Bake for about 48 minutes. The top should be golden brown and domed. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

Step 7: Cool Down

Let the bread cool in its pan for about 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Enjoy your Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread as a delightful treat any time of day!

How to Serve Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread

Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread is a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. Whether you serve it at brunch or as a dessert, there are many ways to elevate this delicious bread.

Pair with Coffee

• A warm cup of coffee complements the sweet flavors of pumpkin bread beautifully. Choose a medium roast for a balanced taste.

Add Fresh Fruit

• Slices of fresh fruit like apples or pears provide a refreshing contrast. Their crisp texture pairs nicely with the soft, creamy filling.

Spread with Butter

• Serve slices with a pat of butter or flavored spreads like honey butter. This adds richness and enhances the overall flavor.

Enjoy with Whipped Cream

• Top your slice with freshly whipped cream for a decadent touch. It’s especially delightful when served as dessert.

Serve Warm

• For the best experience, serve your pumpkin bread warm from the oven or reheated slightly in the microwave. This brings out the cream cheese filling’s rich flavor.

How to Perfect Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread

To ensure your Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread turns out perfectly every time, follow these simple tips:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients, especially the pumpkin puree and baking powder, are fresh for optimal flavor and rising.

• Don’t Overmix: Gently fold the batter until just combined. Overmixing can lead to dense bread instead of light and fluffy.

• Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to verify that your oven temperature is accurate. An incorrect temperature can affect baking time and texture.

• Cool Properly: Allow the bread to cool in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack. This prevents it from becoming soggy.

Best Side Dishes for Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread

Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that enhance its flavors. Here are some excellent options:

1. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances sweetness.
2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a delightful contrast in textures.
3. Cheese Platter: Offer a selection of mild cheeses that complement the sweetness without overpowering it.
4. Nut Mix: A blend of nuts provides a crunchy texture that pairs well with soft bread.
5. Chai Tea: This spiced tea enhances the warm flavors of pumpkin and cinnamon in the bread.
6. Maple Syrup Drizzle: A light drizzle of maple syrup over each slice adds extra sweetness without being overwhelming.
7. Savory Soup: Serve alongside a bowl of butternut squash soup for a comforting autumn meal.
8. Cinnamon Roll Bites: These small treats echo similar flavors, creating a delicious spread worthy of any gathering.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread, it’s easy to overlook certain details. Here are some common mistakes and how to prevent them:

• Using cold ingredients: Ensure all ingredients, especially the cream cheese and eggs, are at room temperature for a smoother batter.
• Overmixing the batter: Mix just until combined to keep the bread light and fluffy. Overmixing can make it dense.
• Skipping the toothpick test: Because of the cream cheese filling, testing for doneness might be tricky. Instead, rely on visual cues like a domed top and golden color.
• Not greasing the pan properly: Make sure your loaf pan is well-greased and floured to prevent sticking. This will ensure a perfect release.
• Ignoring cooling time: Allow the bread to cool in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack. This step helps maintain its shape.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover pumpkin bread in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap for easy access.

Freezing Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread

• Freeze slices or whole loaves wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil for up to 3 months.
• Label with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and reheat wrapped in foil for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 15-20 seconds; check frequently to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat, covering with a lid, and warm each slice for about 2-3 minutes per side.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread:

Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree?

You can use pumpkin pie filling, but reduce other sugars in the recipe since it’s already sweetened and spiced.

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

Look for a golden-brown top that has domed slightly. A toothpick should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

What can I substitute for sour cream?

Greek yogurt works great as a substitute for sour cream, providing similar texture and tanginess.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Chopped nuts or chocolate chips can add extra flavor and texture. Just fold them into the batter before baking.

How should I serve Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread?

This bread is delicious on its own or served with spreads like honey butter or cinnamon-sugar butter for added sweetness.

Final Thoughts

Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread is not only a delightful treat but also versatile enough for breakfast or dessert. The creamy filling enhances the rich pumpkin flavor, making each bite irresistible. Feel free to customize this recipe by adding nuts or spices to suit your taste!