Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread

Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread is the perfect balance of moist, tender bread and creamy, sweet filling. This recipe takes the classic blueberry bread to a new level by incorporating a luscious cream cheese filling that melts perfectly into the bread, creating a deliciously rich and flavorful treat. Whether you’re enjoying it for breakfast, a snack, or a dessert, this bread will be a showstopper at your next gathering or a comforting treat for yourself.

The combination of fresh or frozen blueberries, fluffy batter, and smooth cream cheese filling is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. This bread is easy to make and perfect for all occasions, whether it’s a lazy weekend breakfast or a special celebration. With its soft crumb and the burst of blueberries in every bite, you’ll find yourself coming back for more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Delicious Cream Cheese Filling

The cream cheese filling adds a rich, creamy texture that perfectly complements the sweet and slightly tart blueberries, making each bite an indulgent experience.

2. Simple Ingredients

This recipe uses simple, easy-to-find ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen, making it an accessible option for any baker.

3. Moist and Fluffy Bread

The combination of butter, milk (or buttermilk), and eggs ensures a moist and fluffy texture that’s not too dense, creating the perfect base for the blueberries and cream cheese filling.

4. Perfect for Any Occasion

This bread is versatile enough to be served for breakfast, as a mid-afternoon snack, or even as a dessert at your next gathering. It’s a treat that works for any time of day.

5. Customizable

Feel free to swap in other berries like raspberries or blackberries, or add a bit of lemon zest to the batter for an extra burst of freshness.

this RECIPE

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)

For the Cream Cheese Filling:

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

Variations

• Add Lemon: For a fresh, zesty flavor, add lemon zest to the bread batter or drizzle a lemon glaze over the top of the finished loaf.
• Use Other Berries: Swap the blueberries for raspberries, blackberries, or a mix of your favorite berries for a different twist on this recipe.
• Make It Vegan: Use dairy-free butter, a flax egg (or another egg substitute), and non-dairy milk (such as almond or oat milk) to make this bread vegan-friendly.
• Nuts: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a bit of crunch and extra flavor.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This will take about 2-3 minutes.

Step 3: Add the Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 4: Add the Dry Ingredients and Milk

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk (or buttermilk). Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.

Step 5: Prepare the Blueberries

Toss the fresh or frozen blueberries with 1 tablespoon of flour. This helps prevent them from sinking to the bottom of the bread during baking. Gently fold the blueberries into the batter.

Step 6: Make the Cream Cheese Filling

In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.

Step 7: Assemble the Bread

Pour half of the bread batter into a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan. Spread half of the cream cheese filling over the batter, then pour the remaining bread batter on top. Swirl the cream cheese filling through the batter with a knife or skewer for a marbled effect.

Step 8: Bake the Bread

Bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the bread comes out clean. If the top starts to brown too quickly, cover the bread with aluminum foil and continue baking.

Step 9: Cool and Serve

Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve once fully cooled.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Prevent Blueberries from Sinking: Toss the blueberries in flour before adding them to the batter to help them stay suspended throughout the bread.
• Don’t Overmix: Be careful not to overmix the batter after adding the dry ingredients. This helps the bread stay light and fluffy.
• Check for Doneness: Since oven temperatures can vary, make sure to check the bread with a toothpick inserted into the center to ensure it’s fully cooked.
• Let the Bread Cool: Let the bread cool completely before slicing. This helps the bread set and ensures clean, neat slices.

How to Serve

• With Butter: Serve slices of the bread with a pat of butter for a cozy breakfast or snack.
• With Fresh Fruit: Pair this bread with fresh berries or a fruit compote for a refreshing contrast.
• As a Dessert: Top with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to 1 week.

Freezing

You can freeze the bread for up to 2-3 months. Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and foil, or place it in a freezer-safe bag to prevent freezer burn. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating

To reheat, place individual slices in the microwave for 20-30 seconds, or toast them for a few minutes to enjoy them warm.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen blueberries instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen blueberries. Just be sure to toss them in flour to prevent them from sinking to the bottom.

2. Can I make this recipe without the cream cheese filling?

While the cream cheese filling is a key part of this recipe, you can omit it if you prefer a simpler blueberry bread. The bread will still be delicious on its own!

3. Can I use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Unfortunately, almond flour doesn’t work as a direct substitute for all-purpose flour in this recipe. You would need to experiment with other gluten-free flour options if you need a gluten-free version.

4. How do I prevent the blueberries from sinking?

Tossing the blueberries in flour before adding them to the batter helps them stay suspended throughout the bread as it bakes.

5. Can I add other fruits to this bread?

Yes! Feel free to add other fruits, like raspberries, blackberries, or strawberries, but keep in mind that the texture and flavor may change slightly.

6. Is there a dairy-free option for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese and use plant-based butter and milk to make the recipe dairy-free.

7. Can I make this recipe into muffins?

Yes, you can convert this recipe into muffins by spooning the batter into a muffin tin and baking at 350°F (175°C) for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

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

To test for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the bread. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, the bread is done.

9. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this bread ahead of time. It stores well at room temperature for a few days, or you can refrigerate or freeze it for longer storage.

10. Can I add nuts to this bread?

Yes, you can add chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, to the batter for added texture and flavor.

Conclusion

Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread is a delicious, indulgent treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With its tender, moist crumb and the rich, creamy cream cheese filling, this bread is sure to become a new favorite in your baking repertoire. Whether enjoyed for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, it’s a comforting and satisfying treat that will delight anyone who tries it. Give it a try and enjoy the delightful combination of blueberries and cream cheese in every bite!

Print