Lemon Cream Cheese Bread

Indulge in the delightful combination of tangy lemon and creamy cream cheese with this irresistible Lemon Cream Cheese Bread recipe. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet treat any time of day, this moist and flavorful bread is sure to brighten your day. With a tender crumb and a luscious cream cheese swirl, each slice is bursting with citrusy goodness and a hint of sweetness.

Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving a cozy homemade treat, this Lemon Cream Cheese Bread is sure to impress. Follow along to learn how to create this delicious baked delight that will have everyone coming back for more.

How to make Lemon Cream Cheese Bread

Ingredients

1 cup sugar

3 eggs

8 oz sour cream

½ cup canola oil

Zest of 2 lemons

Juice of 1 lemon

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 ½ cups flour

2 ½ teaspoons baking powder

1 teaspoon salt

1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened

⅓ cup powdered sugar

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F and grease a standard loaf pan.

In a large bowl, add sugar, eggs, sour cream, lemon zest, juice, vanilla, and oil. Mix until smooth and well combined.

In another bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, and salt.

Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet until fully combined, then set aside.

For the cream cheese swirl: In a small bowl, mix together the cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth.

Add half of the batter to the prepared pan and spoon about half the cream cheese mixture on top, then swirl together with a knife.

Top with the rest of the batter and spoon the remaining cream cheese mixture. Carefully swirl together to create a marbled look.

Bake bread for 65-70 minutes, covering with foil for the last 20-30 minutes to prevent the top from browning.

Allow the bread to fully cool before slicing to allow the cream cheese to set.

Notes:

Zest and Juice: The zest and juice of fresh lemons infuse this bread with vibrant citrus flavor. Make sure to zest the lemons before juicing them for maximum flavor.

Sour Cream Moisture: Sour cream adds moisture and richness to the bread, resulting in a tender crumb. Use full-fat sour cream for the best texture.

Cream Cheese Swirl: The cream cheese swirl adds a decadent touch to the bread. Take care not to overmix when swirling to achieve a beautiful marbled effect.

Baking Time: Oven temperatures may vary, so keep an eye on the bread as it bakes. Covering the bread with foil during the last part of baking prevents the top from becoming too dark while ensuring the center cooks through.

Cooling Process: Allow the bread to cool completely in the pan before slicing. This helps the cream cheese swirl set and ensures clean slices.

Storage: Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness. You can also freeze slices individually for longer storage.

Variations: Customize the recipe by adding chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, to the batter for added texture and flavor. You can also sprinkle a mixture of sugar and cinnamon on top before baking for a sweet crunch.

Serving Suggestions: Enjoy slices of Lemon Cream Cheese Bread on their own as a delightful snack or dessert. Serve with a cup of tea or coffee for a comforting treat, or pair with fresh berries and whipped cream for an elegant dessert option.

Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the batter in advance and refrigerate it overnight. When ready to bake, simply pour the batter into the prepared pan and follow the remaining steps for a convenient make-ahead option.

Sharing and Gifting: This Lemon Cream Cheese Bread makes a wonderful homemade gift for friends and family. Wrap slices individually in parchment paper or foil for a thoughtful treat that’s perfect for sharing.

Nutrition Information:

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use other types of citrus instead of lemons?

Yes, you can substitute lemons with other citrus fruits like oranges or limes for a different flavor profile.

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?

Yes, Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute for sour cream in this recipe for a slightly tangier flavor.

Is it necessary to sift the dry ingredients?

Sifting the flour, baking powder, and salt helps to aerate the dry ingredients and ensure they are evenly distributed in the batter, resulting in a lighter texture.

Can I use a different type of oil instead of canola oil?

Yes, you can use vegetable oil or melted butter as a substitute for canola oil if preferred.

Can I make this recipe without cream cheese?

While the cream cheese adds a creamy texture and tangy flavor to the bread, you can omit it if desired.

However, it will alter the final texture and taste of the bread.

How long does the Lemon Cream Cheese Bread last?

Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, the bread can last for up to 3-4 days.

Refrigerating it can extend its shelf life for up to a week.

Can I freeze Lemon Cream Cheese Bread?

Yes, you can freeze the bread for longer storage.

Wrap slices individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.

Thaw slices in the refrigerator overnight before consuming.

Can I use a different type of pan instead of a loaf pan?

Yes, you can use a different type of pan such as a bundt pan or muffin tin, but adjust the baking time accordingly.

Can I add nuts or other mix-ins to the batter?

Yes, chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans can be added to the batter for added texture and flavor.

Can I adjust the sweetness of the bread?

Yes, you can adjust the sweetness by reducing or increasing the amount of sugar and powdered sugar according to your preference.