Cream Cheese Filled Pumpkin Bread Recipe

Pumpkin bread is a beloved fall classic, but when you add a rich cream cheese filling, it transforms into a truly irresistible treat. This Cream Cheese Filled Pumpkin Bread combines the warm, spiced flavors of pumpkin with a sweet, tangy cream cheese layer, making it perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an indulgent snack. Whether you’re serving it to guests or enjoying it with a cup of coffee, this pumpkin bread is sure to impress. Read on to learn how to make this deliciously moist and flavorful bread, complete with tips and variations to make it your own!

this Recipe

What is Cream Cheese Filled Pumpkin Bread?

Cream Cheese Filled Pumpkin Bread is a moist, spiced pumpkin loaf with a sweet and creamy layer of cream cheese baked right in the middle. The bread itself is flavored with pumpkin puree and warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, while the cream cheese filling adds a rich, tangy contrast. The result is a perfectly balanced, decadent treat that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious. This bread is perfect for fall gatherings, holiday brunches, or as a cozy afternoon treat.

Ingredients List for Cream Cheese Filled Pumpkin Bread

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious and decadent cream cheese filled pumpkin bread:

For the Pumpkin Bread:

• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour: The base of the bread, providing structure.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the bread rise and become light and fluffy.
• ½ teaspoon baking powder: Adds a bit more lift to the bread.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
• 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon: The primary spice that brings warmth to the bread.
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg: Complements the pumpkin with a hint of spice.
• ¼ teaspoon ground ginger: Adds a subtle zing.
• ¼ teaspoon ground cloves: For an extra layer of warm spice.
• 1 cup granulated sugar (or a mix of granulated and brown sugar): Sweetens the bread and adds moisture.
• 1 cup pumpkin puree: Adds moisture, flavor, and a beautiful color.
• 2 large eggs: Provide structure and help bind the ingredients together.
• ½ cup vegetable oil (or melted butter): Keeps the bread moist and rich.
• ¼ cup milk (dairy or non-dairy): Adds moisture and helps the bread rise.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor.

For the Cream Cheese Filling:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened: The star of the filling, providing a rich, creamy texture.
• ¼ cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese filling.
• 1 large egg: Helps the filling set and adds richness.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds flavor to the filling.

Substitutions and Variations

This cream cheese filled pumpkin bread is versatile, and you can easily customize it to suit your taste or dietary needs. Here are some ideas:

• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour.
• Vegan: Replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg), use vegan cream cheese, and substitute the milk with a plant-based milk.
• Lower Sugar: Reduce the sugar or use a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit.
• Pumpkin Spice Variation: Add more spices like cardamom or allspice for a different flavor profile.
• Add-ins: Stir in some chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or dried cranberries to the pumpkin batter for added texture and flavor.
• Cinnamon Swirl: Mix a tablespoon of cinnamon into the cream cheese filling for a delightful cinnamon swirl effect.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these steps to create a moist, flavorful pumpkin bread with a creamy, rich filling:

Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling:

1. Mix the Filling: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Set aside.

Prepare the Pumpkin Bread:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves.
3. Mix the Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the sugar, pumpkin puree, eggs, oil, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in dense bread.

Assemble the Bread:

1. Layer the Batter: Pour half of the pumpkin batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it out evenly.
2. Add the Cream Cheese Filling: Carefully spoon the cream cheese mixture over the pumpkin batter, spreading it into an even layer.
3. Top with Remaining Batter: Pour the remaining pumpkin batter over the cream cheese layer, spreading it out to cover the filling completely.

Bake the Bread:

1. Bake: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center (avoiding the cream cheese layer) comes out clean. The top should be golden brown, and the bread should feel firm to the touch.
2. Cool: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
3. Serve: Slice the pumpkin bread and enjoy it warm or at room temperature. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea.

How to Make Cream Cheese Filled Pumpkin Bread: A Step-by-Step Guide

Here’s a more detailed breakdown of each step to ensure your cream cheese filled pumpkin bread turns out perfectly:

1. Preparing the Cream Cheese Filling: Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing to ensure a smooth filling. If it’s too cold, the filling may be lumpy.
2. Mixing the Pumpkin Batter: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, stir just until the flour is incorporated. Overmixing can lead to tough, dense bread.
3. Assembling the Bread: When layering the batter and cream cheese, try to spread each layer evenly to ensure a nice, even swirl of cream cheese in the finished loaf.
4. Baking Time: Check the bread around the 50-minute mark to avoid overbaking. The bread is done when the top is golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make sure your cream cheese filled pumpkin bread turns out delicious every time, avoid these common mistakes:

• Overmixing the Batter: Overmixing can cause the bread to be dense. Stir just until the ingredients are combined.
• Not Softening the Cream Cheese: Cold cream cheese won’t mix smoothly and could result in lumpy filling.
• Overfilling the Pan: Don’t fill the loaf pan too full, as the batter needs room to rise without overflowing.
• Not Letting the Bread Cool: Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing to ensure the cream cheese filling sets properly.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Cream cheese filled pumpkin bread is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some tips for serving and presenting it:

• Serve Warm: This bread is best enjoyed slightly warm, when the cream cheese center is soft and creamy.
• Pair with Beverages: Serve the bread with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or a spiced latte for a cozy fall treat.
• Garnish with Cinnamon Sugar: For a festive touch, sprinkle the top of the bread with a mixture of cinnamon and sugar before baking.
• Add a Drizzle: For an extra decadent touch, drizzle the cooled bread with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk.

How to Serve Cream Cheese Filled Pumpkin Bread

Cream cheese filled pumpkin bread can be enjoyed in various ways, depending on your preference:

• For Breakfast or Brunch: Serve the bread as part of a fall-themed breakfast or brunch spread.
• As a Snack: This bread makes a perfect mid-morning or afternoon snack, especially with a warm beverage.
• For a Holiday Treat: Serve this bread at holiday gatherings, potlucks, or parties for a seasonal treat that everyone will love.

Presentation Ideas for Cream Cheese Filled Pumpkin Bread

Elevate the presentation of your cream cheese filled pumpkin bread with these ideas:

• Rustic Plating: Serve the bread on a wooden board with a dusting of powdered sugar for a cozy, rustic look.
• On a Cake Stand: Arrange the sliced bread on a cake stand for an elegant presentation at a brunch or party.
• Decorative Topping: Sprinkle the bread with chopped nuts, a cinnamon sugar mix, or even a light dusting of powdered sugar for added visual appeal.

Cream Cheese Filled Pumpkin Bread Recipe Tips

To make the best cream cheese filled pumpkin bread every time, keep these tips in mind:

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Bring the cream cheese, eggs, and milk to room temperature before mixing for a smoother batter and filling.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the bread as it bakes to avoid overbaking, which can make it dry. The top should be set and slightly golden.
• Customize the Flavor: Feel free to adjust the spices or add mix-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit to suit your taste.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this bread ahead of time?

A: Yes! This bread can be made a day in advance and stored in an airtight container. It stays moist and delicious for up to 3 days.

Q: How do I store leftover bread?

A: Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.

Q: Can I freeze cream cheese filled pumpkin bread?

A: Yes, you can freeze this bread. Once completely cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator or at room temperature before serving.

Q: Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

A: Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin puree. Make sure it’s well-drained to avoid adding too much moisture to the batter.

Q: Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to the batter?

A: Absolutely! Fold in about ½ cup of chopped nuts or chocolate chips into the pumpkin batter for added texture and flavor.

Conclusion

Cream cheese filled pumpkin bread is a delicious and decadent way to enjoy the flavors of fall. With its moist, spiced pumpkin batter and creamy, tangy filling, this bread is the perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying it for breakfast, as a snack, or serving it at a holiday gathering, this bread is sure to be a hit. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and enjoy baking (and eating!) this delightful cream cheese filled pumpkin bread!

Print