SPREAD LOVE

Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Swirl

Fall is in the air and there’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Swirl wafting through the house. This delightful loaf not only captures the essence of autumn but also combines the rich flavors of pumpkin with a sweet cream cheese ribbon for an irresistible treat that’s perfect for cozy gatherings or a quiet afternoon snack. Get ready to brighten your day and impress your loved ones with this delicious recipe!

Why Make This Recipe

Delicious Flavor: The combination of warm spices and creamy swirls brings comfort and joy in every slice.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday get-together, a potluck, or simply a cozy night in, this bread fits right in.
Easy to Make: Simple step-by-step instructions make this an approachable recipe, even for the novice baker!

How to Make Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Swirl

Creating this Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Swirl from scratch is a delightful experience. Here’s your easy method for making this winter favorite:

Ingredients

1 cup pumpkin puree
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1 cup sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar
2 large eggs
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
1/4 tsp ground cloves
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup sugar
1 egg

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan to prepare for baking.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, sugar, brown sugar, and eggs. Mix until smooth and well blended.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves until evenly distributed.
Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing to achieve the best texture.
In another bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, 1/4 cup sugar, and an egg until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Pour half of the pumpkin batter into your prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly.
Spoon the cream cheese mixture over the pumpkin batter, then top with the remaining pumpkin batter.
With a knife, gently swirl the cream cheese into the pumpkin batter for a marbled effect.
Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the bread to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving – this may be the hardest part!

Storage Tips for Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Swirl

To keep your freshly baked Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Swirl delicious for longer, follow these storage tips:

Room Temperature: Store for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Refrigerator: Will last up to 1 week, still in an airtight container.
Freezer: For longer storage, slice and wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Store in the freezer for up to 3 months.

How to Serve Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Swirl

This delectable pumpkin bread can be enjoyed in multiple ways:

Warm Slices: Serve it warm, right out of the oven, with a pat of butter on top.
With Coffee or Tea: Pair with your favorite hot beverage for a cozy afternoon.
Garnished Delightfully: Top with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of maple glaze for an elevated presentation.

Tips to Make Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Swirl

Use Fresh Spices: For the richest flavor, opt for freshly ground spices instead of pre-ground.
Don’t Overmix: To keep the bread light and fluffy, mix until just combined; gusty hands may create a dense loaf!
Cream Cheese Variations: Experiment with flavored cream cheese, like vanilla or maple, for unique twists.

Variations

Nutty Texture: Consider adding chopped walnuts or pecans to the pumpkin batter for added crunch. This gives a delightful contrast to the creamy swirl.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking mix for a gluten-free version that still maintains its delicious character.

FAQs

Q: Can I use canned pumpkin puree?
A: Yes, canned pumpkin puree works beautifully for this recipe and saves time.

Q: How do I keep my bread moist?
A: Ensure you don’t overbake the bread; a toothpick should come out with a few moist crumbs, not clean.

Q: Can I make mini loaves instead?
A: Absolutely! Divide the batter into mini loaf pans and adjust the baking time to approximately 30-40 minutes.

Whether shared with friends, enjoyed during family gatherings, or savored alone with your favorite hot beverage, this Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Swirl is sure to evoke smiles and warmth all season long. Happy baking!