Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread offers a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and fruity flavors. The blueberries bring bursts of natural sweetness, while the cream cheese filling adds a smooth, indulgent texture. It’s an easy-to-make bread that’s perfect for all occasions – whether it’s an afternoon snack, a breakfast treat, or a charming addition to a brunch spread. The slight tang from the cream cheese pairs beautifully with the light and fluffy texture of the bread, making each bite a joy.

Ingredients

For the Bread:

• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup milk (or buttermilk)
• 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries (tossed in 1 tablespoon flour to prevent sinking)

For the Cream Cheese Filling:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
3. Make the Bread Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, and then add the vanilla extract. Gradually add the flour mixture, alternating with the milk (or buttermilk), mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. Gently fold in the blueberries, ensuring they are evenly distributed in the batter.
4. Assemble the Bread: Pour half of the bread batter into the prepared loaf pan. Spread the cream cheese filling over the batter, then top with the remaining bread batter, spreading it out evenly to cover the cream cheese layer.
5. Bake: Bake for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the bread comes out clean (make sure it’s not poking through the cream cheese filling). If the bread begins to brown too quickly on top, cover it loosely with aluminum foil.
6. Cool and Serve: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve once fully cooled.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe makes 8-10 slices.
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 55-65 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes to 1 hour 20 minutes

Variations

• Berry Blend: Substitute blueberries with raspberries, blackberries, or a combination of berries for a unique twist.
• Zesty Twist: Add the zest of one lemon or orange to the batter for an extra layer of flavor.
• Nuts: Fold in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture and flavor.
• Glaze: Drizzle a simple powdered sugar glaze over the top for an extra sweet touch.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer it colder, store it in the fridge for up to a week.
• Reheating: Reheat individual slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or toast them in a toaster oven for a few minutes for a warm, fresh taste.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen blueberries?

Yes, you can use frozen blueberries. Just toss them in flour as directed to prevent them from sinking to the bottom during baking.

2. Can I use non-dairy milk?

Yes, you can use almond milk, soy milk, or any non-dairy milk of your choice as a substitute for regular milk or buttermilk.

3. Can I make this bread ahead of time?

Yes, this bread can be made a day or two ahead and stored at room temperature. It often tastes even better the next day when the flavors have had time to meld together.

4. Can I freeze this bread?

Yes, you can freeze the bread. Allow it to cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or reheat slices as needed.

5. What can I use instead of buttermilk?

If you don’t have buttermilk, you can use regular milk and add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar per 1 cup of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.

6. Can I make this bread without the cream cheese filling?

Yes, if you prefer a simpler bread, you can omit the cream cheese filling and just make the blueberry bread. It will still be delicious!

7. How can I make this recipe healthier?

To make this bread a bit healthier, you can reduce the amount of sugar, swap half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour, or use a healthier oil instead of butter.

8. Can I use a different sweetener?

Yes, you can substitute granulated sugar with coconut sugar, honey, or maple syrup, but note that the texture of the bread may change slightly.

9. How do I know when the bread is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the bread. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the bread is done. If it’s wet, bake for a few more minutes.

10. Can I add spices to the bread?

Yes, adding cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a dash of ginger can enhance the flavor profile of the bread, giving it a spiced twist.

Conclusion

Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread is a deliciously rich and satisfying treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With its moist, fluffy texture, sweet blueberries, and creamy center, it’s a recipe that everyone will love. Easy to make and full of flavor, this bread is sure to become a favorite in your baking rotation. Enjoy it fresh from the oven or as a delightful snack anytime!

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