Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Swirl: Your Ultimate Fall Comfort Food
Fall baking season is officially here, and there’s no better way to celebrate the flavors of autumn than with a slice of Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Swirl. Imagine biting into a warm, spiced slice of pumpkin bread—soft, moist, and topped with a rich, velvety cream cheese swirl. It’s the kind of treat that feels like a warm hug on a chilly autumn day, and it’s perfect for breakfast, a mid-day snack, or even dessert.
This recipe is a must-try for pumpkin spice lovers and anyone who enjoys the cozy, comforting tastes of fall. Let’s break down how to make this irresistible fall favorite!
Ingredients You’ll Need for Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Swirl
Here’s what you’ll need to make this deliciously moist and flavorful pumpkin bread:
For the Pumpkin Bread:
- 1 and 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 and 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- 1 and 1/2 cups canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil (or melted coconut oil)
- 1/4 cup milk or buttermilk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Cream Cheese Swirl:
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
How to Make Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Swirl
Follow these simple steps to create a show-stopping loaf of pumpkin bread that’s perfect for fall.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare Your Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving a bit of overhang on the sides for easy removal.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. This spice blend gives the bread its warm, pumpkin spice flavor.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a separate large bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, oil, milk, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth and well combined.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the bread dense.
Step 5: Make the Cream Cheese Swirl
In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. This luscious layer will create a beautiful swirl on top of the pumpkin bread.
Step 6: Layer and Swirl
Pour half of the pumpkin bread batter into the prepared loaf pan. Spoon the cream cheese mixture over the batter, then spread the remaining pumpkin batter on top. Use a knife or a skewer to swirl the cream cheese layer gently, creating a marbled effect.
Step 7: Bake and Cool
Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean (a few moist crumbs are fine). Let the bread cool in the pan for about 15 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Tips for the Best Pumpkin Bread
- Use Pure Pumpkin Puree: Make sure to use 100% pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugar and spices.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: For a smooth cream cheese swirl, ensure that your cream cheese is softened and your egg is at room temperature.
- Swirling Technique: Don’t over-swirl the cream cheese mixture. A few gentle swirls will create a beautiful marbled effect.
Serving and Storing Your Pumpkin Bread
This pumpkin bread is delicious warm or at room temperature. Serve it with a dollop of whipped cream, a drizzle of maple syrup, or enjoy it plain with a cup of hot coffee or tea. To store, wrap the bread in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Want to make it ahead? This bread also freezes well! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Bread Recipe
- Rich Fall Flavors: The combination of pumpkin puree and warm spices creates a classic autumn flavor that’s irresistible.
- Moist and Tender: The bread stays incredibly moist, thanks to the pumpkin and the cream cheese swirl.
- Versatile: Enjoy it for breakfast, as an afternoon snack, or even as a holiday dessert. It’s a crowd-pleaser for any occasion!
Perfect for Fall Gatherings and Gifting
Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Swirl is the perfect treat to bring to fall gatherings, potlucks, or holiday dinners. Wrap up a loaf in a festive ribbon, and it makes a thoughtful homemade gift for friends and family. It’s the kind of comfort food that brings people together and celebrates the season in the most delicious way.
Conclusion
This Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Swirl is everything you want in a fall treat: cozy, flavorful, and simple to make. With its soft, moist texture and decadent cream cheese layer, it’s sure to become a seasonal favorite. So fire up your oven, get your pumpkin spice ready, and treat yourself to a slice (or two) of autumn heaven. Happy fall baking! 🎃🍞