LEMON CREAM CHEESE BREAD

by
FacebookXPinterest

Lemon Cream Cheese Bread: A Tangy & Sweet Loaf for Any Occasion

It is possible that the loaf cake is the baking world’s hidden hero. They’re perfect for any time of day and have a wonderfully simple presentation. Is it breakfast cake? Yes, please! Dense and flavorful, this Lemon Cream Cheese Bread has a swirl of creamy cheese in the center and is topped with zesty lemon goodness. It lives up to the hype, I promise!

Ingredients & Their Role

For the Bread:

  • 1/4 cup sugar – Adds sweetness and balances the tanginess of the lemon.
  • 3 eggs – Provides structure and moisture to the bread.
  • 1/8 cup sour cream – Enhances moisture and gives a slight tang.
  • 1/2 cup canola oil – Keeps the bread soft and tender.
  • Juice from two lemons – Delivers a fresh, citrusy flavor.
  • Zest from two lemons – Intensifies the lemony aroma.
  • 1/8 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds depth to the flavor.
  • 1/2 cup flour – The base ingredient for structure.
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons baking powder – Helps the bread rise.
  • 1 teaspoon salt – Balances flavors and enhances taste.

For the Cream Cheese Swirl:

  • One 8-ounce container of softened cream cheese – Creates a rich, creamy swirl.
  • 3/4 cup powdered sugar – Sweetens the cream cheese and keeps it smooth.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a standard loaf pan.
  2. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine sugar, eggs, sour cream, oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
  3. Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, and salt.
  4. Combine: Slowly incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, stirring until fully combined.
  5. Prepare the Cream Cheese Swirl: In a small bowl, mix together cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth.
  6. Layer & Swirl:
    • Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
    • Spoon half of the cream cheese mixture over the batter.
    • Use a knife to gently swirl the cream cheese into the batter.
    • Pour the remaining batter on top and repeat the swirling process with the remaining cream cheese mixture.
  7. Bake: Bake for 65-70 minutes. Cover with foil for the final 20-30 minutes to prevent excessive browning.
  8. Cool & Serve: Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing, so the cream cheese can set properly.

Pro Tips for the Best Lemon Cream Cheese Bread

Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the most vibrant flavor.  Don’t overmix the batter—this keeps the bread tender.  Cover with foil toward the end to prevent over-browning while ensuring even baking.  Let it cool fully before slicing to achieve clean, perfect cuts.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy breakfast or afternoon treat.  Drizzle with honey or a simple lemon glaze for extra sweetness.  Top with fresh berries and whipped cream for an elegant dessert.

Final Thoughts

This Lemon Cream Cheese Bread is the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and creamy flavors. With a moist texture, rich cream cheese swirl, and bright lemon zest, it’s an absolute delight. Whether for breakfast, dessert, or a midday snack, this loaf cake is sure to impress.

Bake a loaf today and savor every slice!