Lemon Cream Cheese Bread: A Delightful Citrus Treat

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Introduction

Baking is an art that combines precision and creativity, and one of the most rewarding experiences is pulling a freshly baked loaf of Lemon Cream Cheese Bread out of the oven. This recipe perfectly balances the bright, tangy flavors of lemon with the rich, creamy texture of cream cheese, creating a moist and tender bread that is ideal for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack.

The combination of citrus and cream cheese is a classic pairing that never fails to impress. The zest and juice of fresh lemons infuse the bread with a vibrant flavor, while the cream cheese swirl adds a luscious, slightly tangy contrast. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a beginner, this recipe is straightforward and yields delicious results every time.

In this article, we will walk through the ingredients and step-by-step instructions for making this delightful Lemon Cream Cheese Bread, along with tips to ensure perfect results.

Ingredients

Before beginning, gather the following ingredients:

  • 1 cup sugar
  • 3 eggs
  • 8 oz sour cream
  • ½ cup canola oil
  • Zest of 2 lemons
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 ½ cups flour
  • 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
  • ⅓ cup powdered sugar

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Filling

In a small bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Set aside.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sugar, eggs, sour cream, canola oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender.

Step 5: Layer the Batter and Cream Cheese

Pour half of the lemon batter into the prepared loaf pan. Spoon the cream cheese mixture evenly over the batter, then top with the remaining lemon batter. Use a knife to gently swirl the cream cheese into the batter for a marbled effect.

Step 6: Bake

Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean (avoiding the cream cheese swirl).

Step 7: 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 at room temperature for the best texture.

Tips for Success

  • Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the eggs, sour cream, and cream cheese are at room temperature for a smoother batter.
  • Fresh Lemons: Use freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest for the best flavor.
  • Avoid Overmixing: Stir the batter just until combined to prevent a dense texture.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Conclusion

Lemon Cream Cheese Bread is a delightful treat that brings together the bright, zesty flavors of lemon and the creamy richness of cream cheese. Its moist, tender crumb and sweet-tangy swirl make it a perfect choice for any occasion, from a weekend brunch to an after-dinner dessert.

This recipe is simple enough for beginners yet yields impressive results that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether enjoyed with a cup of tea in the morning or as a sweet ending to a meal, this bread is sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.

Try this recipe today and experience the irresistible combination of citrus and cream cheese in every bite!

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