Why Make This Recipe

Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Swirl is a delightful treat that combines the warm flavors of pumpkin with a rich cream cheese filling. This recipe is not only easy to make but also perfect for any season, especially fall. The moist bread and the creamy swirl make it a favorite for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. You can enjoy it warm from the oven or at room temperature, making it a versatile addition to your baking repertoire.

How to Make Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Swirl

Ingredients:

1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup canned pumpkin puree
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

For the cream cheese swirl:

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

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
In another bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, sugar, oil, and eggs. Mix until well blended.
Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
For the cream cheese swirl, beat the cream cheese, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Pour half of the pumpkin batter into the prepared pan. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly on top, then cover with the remaining pumpkin batter. Swirl gently with a knife.
Bake for 55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool before slicing and serving.

How to Serve Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Swirl

Serve the pumpkin bread warm with a pat of butter or a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top. It can also be enjoyed plain or with a spread of cream cheese for extra creaminess. Pair it with coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon snack.

How to Store Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Swirl

Store any leftover pumpkin bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze it for up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw it at room temperature before serving.

Tips to Make Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Swirl

Make sure your cream cheese is softened for easier mixing.
Do not overmix the batter to keep the bread light and fluffy.
You can add nuts or chocolate chips to the pumpkin batter for added flavor and texture.
For an extra spice kick, consider adding a pinch of ginger or cloves.
If you prefer a less sweet bread, reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe.

Variation

You can substitute the canned pumpkin puree with fresh pumpkin puree for a more homemade flavor. Additionally, try using different spices like allspice or cardamom to vary the taste.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin puree. Just cook and puree the pumpkin until smooth.

2. How do I know when the bread is done baking?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the bread. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, it is done.

3. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to check that the other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Swirl Recipe