Description

The Delicious Lemon Cream Cheese Bread is a refreshing and tangy treat that combines the bright, zesty flavor of lemons with the rich, smooth texture of cream cheese. Perfect for any time of day, this bread is both comforting and indulgent, making it an excellent choice for breakfast, brunch, or even a sweet snack in the afternoon. The soft, moist crumb of the bread paired with the creamy, slightly tart cream cheese filling makes this recipe a standout. It’s a delightful way to enjoy the flavors of lemon without the heaviness of more traditional baked goods, and the balance of sweetness and acidity makes it perfect for those who love citrus desserts.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 block (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup sour cream
• For the Lemon Glaze:
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest

Preparation Method

Prepare the batter: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9x5 inch loaf pan. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, cream cheese, and sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial to achieving a moist and soft texture. Gradually beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each one is fully incorporated before adding the next. Add the lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is well combined.

Dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the sour cream. Begin with a portion of the flour mixture, then add some sour cream, and repeat until all ingredients are incorporated. This alternating method helps maintain the lightness of the batter and ensures a smooth consistency.

Bake the bread: Once the batter is ready, pour it into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Bake for 55-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top of the bread starts to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning while the inside finishes baking.

Lemon glaze: While the bread is baking, prepare the lemon glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth. The glaze should be thick but pourable, adding a sweet-tart finish to the bread.

Finish and serve: Once the bread is done, allow it to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. While the bread is still slightly warm, drizzle the lemon glaze over the top, allowing it to seep into the bread for extra moisture and flavor. Slice and serve the lemon cream cheese bread as is, or with an extra dollop of cream cheese or whipped cream for an even more indulgent treat.

Tips and Conclusion

For a twist on this recipe, try adding a handful of fresh or frozen blueberries to the batter. The burst of sweet, juicy berries pairs wonderfully with the tart lemon and creamy filling, creating a vibrant and flavorful variation. You could also sprinkle some coarse sugar on top before baking for a crunchy texture and a beautiful golden crust.

This Delicious Lemon Cream Cheese Bread is the perfect blend of tangy and sweet, with its moist crumb and luscious cream cheese filling making it an irresistible treat. The refreshing flavor of lemon shines through, while the cream cheese adds a velvety richness that elevates this bread to something truly special. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, as a snack, or for dessert, this lemon cream cheese bread is sure to be a hit. Its simple preparation and delightful taste make it a recipe worth coming back to again and again.