Lemon Cream Cheese Bread Recipe

If you’re looking to brighten up your baking repertoire with something delightfully fresh and creamy, then this Lemon Cream Cheese Bread is an absolute must-try. Imagine a tender, moist loaf bursting with zesty lemon flavor, perfectly balanced by the smooth richness of cream cheese baked right into the batter. This isn’t just any lemon bread; the luscious cream cheese creates a velvety texture that will have you reaching for seconds—perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even a sweet treat any time of day. Trust me, once you make this Lemon Cream Cheese Bread, it’s going to be your new favorite baked delight.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic behind this Lemon Cream Cheese Bread lies in a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients that work beautifully together. Each component plays a vital role, from the tang of lemon zest to the creamy depth of cream cheese, creating that perfectly balanced flavor and irresistibly soft crumb.

• Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, softened): Adds richness and helps create a tender crumb in the bread.
• Granulated sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the bread just enough to complement the tart lemon notes.
• Cream cheese (4 ounces, softened): Gives the bread its signature creamy texture and subtle tang.
• Large eggs (2): Provide structure and moisture, keeping the bread light and fluffy.
• Lemon juice (2 tablespoons): Infuses fresh citrus flavor that brightens up the entire loaf.
• Lemon zest (1 tablespoon): Offers concentrated lemon oils that bring an aromatic punch.
• All-purpose flour (1 1/2 cups): The backbone of the bread, giving it structure and body.
• Baking powder (1 teaspoon): Helps the bread rise nicely and become airy.
• Baking soda (1/2 teaspoon): Works with the buttermilk to ensure a tender crumb and a slight lift.
• Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• Buttermilk (1/2 cup): Adds moisture and a slight tanginess, keeping the bread soft.

How to Make Lemon Cream Cheese Bread

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). This ensures it’s nice and hot when your batter is ready to go in. Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking, making removal smooth and easy after baking.

Step 2: Cream Butter, Sugar, and Cream Cheese

In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter, sugar, and cream cheese until the mixture becomes light, fluffy, and pale. This process takes about 2 to 3 minutes. It’s key for incorporating air so your bread rises perfectly and gains that wonderful tender texture.

Step 3: Add the Eggs

Next, crack in the eggs one at a time, beating thoroughly after each addition. This step helps build structure gradually and ensures everything is perfectly mixed without curdling.

Step 4: Mix in Lemon Juice and Zest

Now, stir in the fresh lemon juice and zest to infuse the batter with that unmistakable bright citrus flavor. This is where your Lemon Cream Cheese Bread truly starts coming to life with zesty aroma and taste.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients Separately

In a different bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mixing these ingredients separately helps distribute the leavening agents evenly throughout the flour for consistent rising.

Step 6: Alternate Dry Ingredients and Buttermilk

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture in three installments, alternating with the buttermilk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Blend just until combined—overmixing will make your bread tough, and we want moist, tender crumb.

Step 7: Bake Your Bread

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top evenly. Slide it into your preheated oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, signaling perfectly baked bread.

Step 8: Cool Before Slicing

Once baked, let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes to firm up a bit, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This step prevents the bread from becoming soggy and helps the flavors to settle beautifully before slicing.

How to Serve Lemon Cream Cheese Bread

Garnishes

Serving this Lemon Cream Cheese Bread with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of simple lemon glaze elevates its bright flavors and adds a lovely decorative touch. Fresh lemon slices or a few sprigs of mint can also brighten the presentation for guests.

Side Dishes

Pair this bread with a steaming cup of tea or coffee for a cozy breakfast. It’s also fantastic alongside fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent afternoon snack or dessert.

Creative Ways to Present

Try slicing the bread and toasting it lightly for a warm, crisp texture contrast. You could spread a smear of honey or your favorite fruit preserves on top, making it perfect for brunch spreads or sweet snack platters.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap leftover Lemon Cream Cheese Bread tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Keeping it sealed prevents drying out and helps maintain its moist, tender crumb.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, you can freeze the uncut loaf wrapped securely in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. This bread freezes beautifully for up to three months and thaws quickly at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy it again.

Reheating

For the best experience, gently warm slices in a toaster oven or microwave for a few seconds. This refreshes the soft texture and enhances that creamy lemon flavor, making it taste freshly baked all over again.

FAQs

Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?

You can substitute regular milk mixed with a teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar to mimic buttermilk’s acidity. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using. This helps activate the baking soda properly for the best rise.

Is it necessary to use cream cheese in this recipe?

The cream cheese is what makes this Lemon Cream Cheese Bread uniquely tender and rich with a subtle tang. Omitting it will change the texture and flavor, so it’s highly recommended not to skip it.

Can I make this bread gluten-free?

Yes! Use a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour blend designed for baking. The key is ensuring that the blend contains xanthan gum or other binders to support structure.

How long will the bread stay fresh?

Stored properly in an airtight container, this bread stays fresh at room temperature for about 3 to 4 days. Refrigeration can extend shelf life but may dry it out if not sealed tightly.

Can I add nuts or berries to the batter?

Absolutely! Tossing in some chopped walnuts, pecans, or fresh blueberries adds extra texture and flavor, making your Lemon Cream Cheese Bread even more special.

Final Thoughts

This Lemon Cream Cheese Bread is such a joy to bake and share. Its bright citrus notes combined with the creamy richness create a mouthwatering experience that’s truly unforgettable. I hope you give this recipe a try soon and find it as charming and delicious as I do. Happy baking!

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