Decadent Lemon Cream Cheese Bread Recipe: Perfectly Moist and Tangy

Why You’ll Love Decadent Lemon Cream Cheese Bread Recipe

If you’re a fan of citrusy, moist treats with a touch of richness, this Decadent Lemon Cream Cheese Bread Recipe will quickly become a favorite. The tangy lemon flavor paired with the creamy cream cheese creates a delightful combination that is both refreshing and indulgent. This bread is perfect for any occasion—whether you’re looking for a sweet breakfast treat, an afternoon snack, or a dessert to impress guests. Plus, it’s easy to make and will fill your home with a delicious aroma as it bakes.

Ingredients

• 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 3 large eggs

• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice

• 2 teaspoons lemon zest

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 cup milk

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.

2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened cream cheese, butter, and sugar until smooth and fluffy.

3. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the lemon juice and zest.

4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.

6. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly.

7. Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

8. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 10-12 slices

• Prep time: 15 minutes

• Bake time: 60-70 minutes

• Total time: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes

Variations

• Add-ins: Try folding in fresh blueberries, poppy seeds, or chopped nuts for an extra burst of flavor and texture.

• Glaze: For an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle a simple lemon glaze (powdered sugar and lemon juice) over the cooled bread.

• Gluten-Free: Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this bread gluten-free.

• Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cream cheese and butter alternatives to make this recipe dairy-free.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, wrap it in plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for up to 1 week.

• Freezing: This bread freezes well! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. To thaw, leave it at room temperature for a few hours or heat it in the microwave for a few seconds.

• Reheating: To reheat, place slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds, or warm it in the oven at 300°F for 10-15 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of cheese instead of cream cheese?

Yes, you can try using ricotta cheese or mascarpone for a slightly different texture, though cream cheese is recommended for the classic tangy flavor.

2. How can I make this recipe less sweet?

You can reduce the amount of sugar to your liking, but be mindful that it may alter the texture of the bread.

3. Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?

Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, but you can use bottled lemon juice in a pinch. Just make sure it’s 100% lemon juice with no added preservatives.

4. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can easily double the recipe to make two loaves. Just ensure that you bake them separately to ensure they cook evenly.

5. How do I know when the bread is done baking?

The bread is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few crumbs. If it’s still wet, continue baking for a few more minutes and check again.

6. Can I add frosting to the bread?

While the bread itself is rich and flavorful, you can add a cream cheese frosting or a lemon glaze for extra sweetness and a decorative touch.

7. Can I substitute the butter with oil?

You can substitute the butter with an equal amount of vegetable or canola oil, but the texture may be slightly different.

8. Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, this recipe is suitable for vegetarians, as it contains no meat or animal by-products other than eggs and dairy.

9. Can I make this bread in mini loaf pans?

Yes, you can bake this bread in mini loaf pans. Just adjust the baking time, as mini loaves will cook faster, typically in about 30-40 minutes.

10. What is the best way to slice this bread?

To get clean slices, use a serrated knife when cutting the bread once it has cooled completely.

Conclusion

This decadent lemon cream cheese bread is a delightful treat that combines the richness of cream cheese with the bright tang of lemon. Whether you’re looking for a sweet breakfast, a snack, or a dessert, this moist and flavorful bread is sure to impress. It’s easy to make, versatile with optional variations, and perfect for sharing with friends and family.