Name: Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bread
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 48 min
Total time: 78 min
Ingredients: 1 large egg (Provides structure and moisture for a tender crumb.); 1 cup pumpkin puree (Offers moisture, flavor, and a vibrant color.); ½ cup light brown sugar (Adds sweetness and moisture; can be substituted with granulated sugar.); ¼ cup granulated sugar (Balances flavors with an extra touch of sweetness.); ¼ cup liquid-state coconut oil (Keeps the bread moist; can be swapped with canola or vegetable oil.); ¼ cup sour cream (Contributes to a tender texture; Greek yogurt is a substitute.); 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (Enhances the overall flavor of the bread.); 2 teaspoons cinnamon (Infuses warm spice into each bite.); 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice (Adds warmth to the dish.); ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg (Elevates the autumn flavor profile.); 1 cup all-purpose flour (Provides necessary structure for the bread.); ½ teaspoon baking powder (Helps achieve a fluffy texture.); ½ teaspoon baking soda (Works with acids in the recipe.); Pinch salt (Enhances overall flavors.); 1 large egg (Adds richness and supports the filling's structure.); 4 ounces softened brick-style cream cheese (Creates the creamy filling; avoid tub varieties.); ¼ cup granulated sugar (Sweetens the filling beautifully.); 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour (Helps to set the filling.)

As autumn unfurls its golden leaves and the air becomes crisp, there’s nothing quite like indulging in the cozy embrace of freshly baked pumpkin bread. Today, I’m excited to share my all-time favorite recipe: Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread—a delightful treat that blends the moistness of traditional pumpkin bread with the creamy goodness of a rich cream cheese filling. What makes this recipe a must-try is its quick prep time and the way it effortlessly charms loved ones, making it the perfect companion for chilly afternoons. The warm, spiced aroma wafting from the oven will have everyone gathered in the kitchen, eagerly anticipating a slice. Are you ready to elevate your autumn baking game? Let’s dive into this scrumptious journey together!

Why is Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bread a Must-try?

Comforting and Indulgent: The harmony of moist pumpkin bread with a rich cream cheese filling creates a comforting treat that feels like home.

Quick and Easy Preparation: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have this delicious bread ready in no time—perfect for busy days.

Fall Flavors in Every Bite: Each slice bursts with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, encapsulating the essence of autumn in your kitchen.

Crowd-Pleasing Delight: This bread is sure to impress family and friends, making it an ideal choice for gatherings, brunches, or cozy evenings.

Versatile Enjoyment: Serve it as is, or elevate your experience with a smear of honey butter or try variations like adding chocolate chips for extra indulgence. For more delicious ideas, check out my Pumpkin Chocolate Chip recipe that combines seasonal flavors with delightful chocolate bliss!

Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bread Ingredients

• Get ready for a delightful autumn treat!

For the Bread

1 large egg – Provides structure and moisture for a tender crumb.
1 cup pumpkin puree – Offers moisture, flavor, and a vibrant color to your pumpkin cream cheese bread.
½ cup light brown sugar (packed) – Adds sweetness and moisture; can be substituted with granulated sugar if desired.
¼ cup granulated sugar – Balances flavors with an extra touch of sweetness.
¼ cup liquid-state coconut oil – Keeps the bread moist; can be swapped with canola or vegetable oil as needed.
¼ cup sour cream – Contributes to a tender texture; Greek yogurt makes a great substitute too!
2 teaspoons vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor of the bread.
2 teaspoons cinnamon – Infuses warm spice into each bite, perfect for autumn.
1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice – Adds a lovely depth and warmth to the dish.
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg – Elevates the autumnal flavor profile; feel free to omit if needed.
1 cup all-purpose flour – Provides the necessary structure for the bread to rise.
½ teaspoon baking powder – Helps achieve a fluffy texture.
½ teaspoon baking soda – Works with the acids in the recipe for a lovely lift.
Pinch salt (optional) – Enhances the overall flavors; adjustable to your tastes.

For the Cream Cheese Filling

1 large egg – Adds richness and supports the filling’s structure.
4 ounces softened brick-style cream cheese – Creates the creamy filling; avoid tub varieties to prevent a runny texture.
¼ cup granulated sugar – Sweetens up the filling beautifully.
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour – Helps to set the filling, ensuring a perfect cream cheese layer.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bread

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×5-inch loaf pan with cooking spray or butter to ensure easy removal of your pumpkin cream cheese bread later. Set the pan aside, and gather your ingredients so everything is within reach.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, light brown sugar, granulated sugar, melted coconut oil, sour cream, egg, vanilla extract, cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, and nutmeg until the mixture is smooth and well-combined. This will create a rich and flavorful base for your bread, exuding that comforting autumn aroma.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
Gently fold in the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and a pinch of salt into the wet mixture. Stir until just combined, being careful not to overmix—some lumps are perfectly normal! This step is crucial to ensure your pumpkin cream cheese bread remains fluffy and moist.

Step 4: Layer the Batter
Pour two-thirds of the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing it out evenly with the back of a spoon or spatula. This layer forms the foundation for your creamy filling, creating a delightful contrast with the rich cream cheese layer that will follow.

Step 5: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling
In a separate bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, egg, granulated sugar, and flour until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This filling adds a decadent richness to your pumpkin bread, ensuring each bite is a delightful surprise.

Step 6: Assemble the Filling
Spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the batter in the loaf pan, making sure it reaches the edges. This careful layering will create the luscious center of your pumpkin cream cheese bread, which balances beautifully with the spiced outer crust.

Step 7: Final Batter Layer
Spoon the remaining batter over the cream cheese filling, taking care to smooth it out gently. Avoid disturbing the filling beneath while ensuring the top is evenly covered. This final layer creates a lovely seal, so the filling stays nestled within the pumpkin bread as it bakes.

Step 8: Bake the Bread
Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 48 minutes. The top should look golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, signaling that your pumpkin cream cheese bread is done.

Step 9: Cool the Bread
Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This step helps the bread set and makes it easier to slice later. Enjoy the sweet, spiced aroma filling your kitchen!

Step 10: Serve and Enjoy
Once cool, slice the pumpkin cream cheese bread and serve it as is or with a smear of flavored butter for an extra indulgent treat. This delightful autumn bread is perfect for gatherings or cozy evenings and will surely become a family favorite!

How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bread

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week to maintain freshness and moisture, enjoying slices of this delightedly sweet bread at your leisure.

Fridge: If you prefer a cooler treat, keep it in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Be sure to wrap it well to prevent drying out.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze slices of pumpkin cream cheese bread in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 6 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying!

Reheating: To enjoy warm, microwave individual slices for about 15-20 seconds or warm in the oven at 350°F for 5 minutes. Your cozy autumn flavor will return!

Tips for the Best Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bread

Proper Ingredient Measurement: Always use a kitchen scale or dry measuring cups to ensure accurate measurements. This prevents a runny cream cheese filling or dense bread.
Cooling Time Is Key: Allow the pumpkin cream cheese bread to cool completely before slicing. This helps the flavors meld and sets the cream cheese filling for easier serving.
Avoid Overmixing: When combining the flour mixture with wet ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough bread; a few lumps are perfectly fine!
Use Brick-style Cream Cheese: For the filling, stick with brick-style cream cheese rather than tub varieties. The latter contains too much moisture and can result in a soggy filling.
Watch Baking Time: Ovens vary, so start checking for doneness a few minutes before the suggested baking time. Your pumpkin cream cheese bread is ready when a toothpick comes out clean or with a couple of moist crumbs.

Make Ahead Options

These Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread are perfect for busy home cooks! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the wet and dry ingredients separately and storing them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Additionally, the cream cheese filling can be mixed ahead and refrigerated for the same timeframe. Simply bring both the batter and filling to room temperature before assembling and baking. This way, you’ll still get that delightful, fresh-baked taste without the rush! When you’re ready to bake, layer the ingredients as directed and pop it in the oven for a comforting treat that’s just as delicious as if you made it fresh that day.

Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bread Variations

Feel free to add your personal touch to this delightful pumpkin cream cheese bread, making it even more special for your family and friends!

Nuts & Seeds: Add a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch. They provide a nutty flavor that complements the spices beautifully.
Chocolate Delight: Stir in some chocolate chips, preferably dark or semi-sweet, for a sweet, indulgent twist that pairs well with the creamy filling.
Fruit Fusion: Incorporate dried cranberries or raisins to introduce a burst of sweetness and chewy texture, creating a lovely contrast with the soft bread.
Spice It Up: Experiment with different spices like ginger or allspice to intensify the autumn flavors. You could even add a pinch of cayenne for a surprising kick!
Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free cream cheese and a plant-based yogurt alternative to create a vegan version without sacrificing flavor.
Swirled Goodness: Instead of a layer, swirl the cream cheese filling throughout the batter for a beautiful marbled effect that also enhances the sweetness in every bite.
Fruity Filling: Swap out the cream cheese for a fruit spread, like raspberry or apricot, for a fresh and fruity alternative that brings a different dimension to your pumpkin bread.
Serve with Style: Pair your slices with honey butter or cream cheese frosting for an extra touch of indulgence. And if you’re looking for more delightful recipes to enjoy, check out these heavenly Strawberry Cheesecake Stuffed treats or my comforting Baked Potato Soup!

Each of these variations will add an exciting twist to your favorite autumn treat, making it a recipe you return to season after season!

What to Serve with Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread

As you prepare to indulge in a slice of this luscious pumpkin bread, let’s explore delightful accompaniments that will elevate your cozy autumn experience.

Honey Butter: A smooth, sweet topping that complements the spiced bread, adding warmth to every bite.
Cinnamon-Sugar Butter: Enhances the flavors of the bread with a sweet and spiced flair, making it a delightful treat for brunch.
Apple Cider: The crisp, refreshing notes of apple cider balance the richness of the cream cheese filling, creating a lovely pairing.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream drizzled over warm pumpkin bread turns it into an irresistible dessert.
Chai Tea: This spiced tea echoes the warm spices in the bread, making for a soothing and aromatic pairing.
Cream Cheese Frosting: For an extra indulgent touch, a light spread of cream cheese frosting on top offers sweetness that complements the filling.

Imagine leisurely afternoons enjoying warm slices of pumpkin bread paired with these delightful accompaniments, creating memories with loved ones as the scent of autumn fills the air.

Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bread Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best pumpkin for this bread?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and moisture, use canned pumpkin puree or homemade pumpkin puree from sugar pumpkins. Look for deep orange flesh without any dark spots all over; this indicates ripeness and freshness.

What’s the best way to store leftover pumpkin cream cheese bread?
To keep your bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you prefer it chilled, wrap it tightly and keep it in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.

Can I freeze pumpkin cream cheese bread?
Yes, you can! Freeze slices by wrapping them individually in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. This will keep your bread fresh for up to 6 months. To enjoy, just thaw overnight in the fridge and optionally warm in the microwave.

Why did my cream cheese filling turn runny?
Very! To avoid a runny filling, be sure to use brick-style cream cheese instead of the tub varieties, which contain too much moisture. Ensure it’s softened but not overly whipped—just mix until smooth without air incorporation.

Can I use gluten-free flour for this recipe?
While this recipe primarily focuses on all-purpose flour, you can try a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend if required. Just make sure the blend includes xanthan gum to maintain the bread’s structure.

Is this recipe safe for my pet or those with dairy allergies?
Unfortunately, this pumpkin cream cheese bread contains both cream cheese and egg, which are not safe for pets. Additionally, those with dairy allergies should look for dairy-free cream cheese alternatives and substitute the egg for a flax egg or chia seed egg for a suitable option.