Easy Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bread in 8 Ingredients

When the leaves begin to turn and the air grows crisp, there’s nothing quite as comforting as the aroma of freshly baked Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bread wafting through your kitchen. With its moist texture and rich pumpkin flavor, this delightful recipe is an excellent choice for breakfast, afternoon snacks, or cozy gatherings. Best of all, it requires just 8 ingredients, making it simple enough for any home baker to whip up. Ready to get started? Let’s dive in!

Ingredients & Kitchen Tools

Ingredients
– 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/3 cup vegetable oil
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda

Kitchen Tools
– Mixing bowls
– Electric mixer (or whisk)
– Loaf pan
– Measuring cups and spoons
– Spatula

Prep & Cook Time

– Prep Time: 15 minutes
– Cook Time: 60 minutes
– Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a standard loaf pan.

2. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the canned pumpkin puree, softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vegetable oil. Beat with an electric mixer (or whisk by hand) until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and baking soda. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

4. Pour into Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.

5. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

6. Cool: Once baked, allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

7. Enjoy: Serve warm or at room temperature. This bread also makes delicious pumpkin cream cheese muffins if you prefer a portable snack!

Nutritional Benefits or Advantages

This pumpkin bread is not only delicious but offers health benefits as well. Pumpkin puree is a great source of vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants. Plus, cream cheese adds a creamy, flavorful element that balances out the sweetness without overpowering it.

Tips, Variations, or Substitutions

– Spices: Feel free to add spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger to enhance the flavor profile.
– Nuts and Chocolate: Incorporate some chopped walnuts or chocolate chips for added texture and flavor.
– Dairy-Free Option: Substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative, such as cashew cream, to make it dairy-free.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

– Overmixing: It’s crucial to mix until just combined to prevent a dense texture.
– Using Fresh Pumpkin: If you opt for fresh pumpkin, ensure it’s cooked and pureed properly before measuring.
– Not Checking Doneness: Every oven can vary slightly; always use a toothpick to check for doneness.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store any leftover pumpkin bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for up to a week. For longer storage, wrap it well and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply place slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or warm in a toaster oven.

Conclusion

This Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bread is the perfect way to celebrate the fall season with its warm flavors and comforting texture. Whether enjoyed with your morning coffee or as an afternoon treat, it’s sure to become a family favorite. So gather your ingredients, and give this easy recipe a try today!

FAQs

Can I use homemade pumpkin puree?
Yes, but make sure it’s thick and well-drained to avoid excess moisture in the bread.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

What if I want to make muffins instead?
You can easily adapt this recipe by pouring the batter into a muffin tin; reduce the baking time to around 20-25 minutes.

How do I know if my bread is done baking?
Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, the bread is ready.