Moist Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bread Recipe
If you adore everything pumpkin and crave a treat that is both comforting and bursting with flavor, you’re going to fall head over heels for this Moist Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bread. Imagine tender, fluffy pumpkin bread enriched with the warm spices of cinnamon and pumpkin pie spice, all perfectly married with a luscious swirl of creamy, dreamy cream cheese filling. This bread is not just moist, it’s almost irresistibly soft and comforting—ideal for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or even dessert. Every bite delivers that cozy pumpkin goodness wrapped around a velvety cream cheese center that makes this bread truly unforgettable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and straightforward ingredients, each playing a crucial role in creating the perfect texture, flavor, and aroma. From the earthy pumpkin puree to the warm spices and rich cream cheese, every element combines to build layers of taste and moisture.
- Pumpkin puree: Provides natural moisture and the iconic pumpkin flavor that defines this bread.
- Butter: Melted and cooled to add richness and keep the crumb tender.
- Vegetable oil: Helps keep the bread moist without weighing it down.
- Vanilla extract: Adds a sweet, fragrant background note enhancing all other flavors.
- Kosher salt: Balances sweetness and enhances the spices.
- Cinnamon and pumpkin pie spice: The dynamic duo giving that classic pumpkin taste.
- Brown sugar: Adds caramel depth and contributes to moisture.
- Eggs: Bind ingredients together and add lift for fluffiness.
- Flour: The base creating structure without making the bread dense.
- Baking soda: Leavens the bread, ensuring it rises perfectly.
- Cream cheese: For the rich, creamy filling that makes the bread unforgettable.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese filling for that perfect balance.
How to Make Moist Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bread
Step 1: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling
The first step is to create the luscious cream cheese filling that will give this bread its signature swirl. Using room temperature cream cheese ensures it mixes smoothly without lumps. Whisk it together with granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and an egg until creamy and velvety. Set this delicious mixture aside while you work on the pumpkin bread batter.
Step 2: Mix the Pumpkin Bread Batter
In a large bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, melted butter, vegetable oil, eggs, brown sugar, vanilla extract, salt, cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice. Mix these wet ingredients until smooth and fragrant with the warm spices. Then, gently fold in your flour and baking soda. Be careful not to overmix here; you want a tender, moist crumb, so mix just until you see no lumps of flour.
Step 3: Layer the Batter and Filling
Line a loaf pan with parchment paper for easy removal and an even bake. Pour half of your pumpkin batter into the bottom, smoothing it out gently. Carefully spread the cream cheese filling on top, making sure it is an even layer. Finally, spoon the remaining pumpkin batter over the cream cheese and smooth it out to seal in the creamy center.
Step 4: Bake to Glorious Perfection
Place your loaf pan in a preheated 350°F (180°C) oven and bake for 40 to 50 minutes. The house will soon be filled with irresistible aromas. To check doneness, insert a toothpick near the center—it should come out clean without wet batter. Let the loaf cool thoroughly; patience here rewards you with slices that hold together beautifully without crumbling.
How to Serve Moist Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bread
Garnishes
This bread is stunning on its own, but topping with a dusting of powdered sugar or a light drizzle of maple glaze takes it to another level of indulgence. For a festive touch, sprinkle some toasted pecans or walnuts on top before serving, adding a delightful crunch against the soft bread.
Side Dishes
Pair this bread with a steaming cup of coffee, chai tea, or even a spiced latte for a perfect autumnal combo. If serving for brunch, it complements creamy spreads or fresh fruit beautifully, which contrast nicely with the bread’s rich texture and warm spices.
Creative Ways to Present
Try slicing the bread into thick pieces and lightly toasting them before adding a pat of butter for a melty treat. You can also cut into small cubes for a festive bread pudding or serve alongside whipped cream or mascarpone for a decadent dessert experience. The possibilities with this Moist Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bread are endless!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover loaf wrapped tightly in plastic or stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to maintain moisture and softness. For longer storage, refrigerate it up to a week, although bring it to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.
Freezing
This bread freezes wonderfully. Wrap the loaf or individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature for a few hours.
Reheating
To revive the bread’s freshness, warm slices gently in a toaster oven or microwave (wrapped in a damp paper towel to maintain moisture). Heating just until warm brings back that soft, pillowy texture and melts the cream cheese swirl into sheer bliss.
FAQs
Can I use canned pumpkin for this recipe?
Absolutely! Canned pumpkin puree works perfectly here and ensures consistent texture and flavor. Just make sure you use pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling, which contains extra spices and sugar.
What kind of cream cheese is best for the filling?
Full-fat cream cheese like Philadelphia gives the creamiest and richest filling. Low-fat varieties tend to be a bit runny and less flavorful, so for best results, stick with regular cream cheese at room temperature.
Can I make this bread gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking. It’s best to use one with xanthan gum included for structure. Be mindful to not overmix to keep the bread light and tender.
Do I have to use both butter and oil?
The combination of butter and vegetable oil is key here. Butter adds flavor and richness while oil keeps the bread moist and tender. Using only one might affect texture, but if you need to substitute, try all oil for a lighter result or all butter for more flavor but slightly denser texture.
How can I prevent the cream cheese from leaking out during baking?
Make sure your cream cheese filling is well mixed and thick before layering. Also, spreading it evenly and using a spatula to smooth the top creates a nice seal with the pumpkin batter above, helping it stay nestled inside the bread as it bakes.
Final Thoughts
You really can’t go wrong with a slice of this Moist Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bread. It’s such a joy to bake and even more fun to share with friends and family. Whether you’re celebrating the season or just want a cozy treat, this recipe brings warmth, richness, and a little magic to your kitchen. Trust me, once you try it, this bread will become one of your all-time favorites that you’ll want to make again and again!
