Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread Recipe

There’s something magical about the combination of sweet blueberries and creamy, tangy cream cheese nestled in a soft, moist loaf of bread. This Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread is not only visually stunning but also incredibly delicious. Whether you’re enjoying it with your morning coffee or serving it as an afternoon treat, this bread is sure to be a hit.

Ingredients List

For the Bread Batter:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup milk
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries (tossed in 1 tablespoon flour to prevent sinking)

For the Cream Cheese Filling:

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

Tools You’ll Need:

• Mixing bowls
• Hand or stand mixer
• Whisk and spatula
• 9×5-inch loaf pan
• Parchment paper or nonstick spray

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture

1. In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Set aside.

Step 2: Mix the Bread Batter

1. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined.
5. Gently fold in the blueberries.

Step 3: Layer the Batter and Filling

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a loaf pan by lining it with parchment paper or greasing it well.
2. Pour half of the bread batter into the pan, spreading it evenly.
3. Spoon the cream cheese mixture over the batter and spread it gently to create an even layer.
4. Add the remaining bread batter on top and smooth it out.

Step 4: Bake the Bread

1. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
2. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Baking Tips for Success

• Toss the Blueberries in Flour: This prevents them from sinking to the bottom of the bread.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing can result in dense bread. Stir just until the ingredients are combined.
• Check for Doneness: Insert a toothpick or skewer into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, it’s ready.

Fun Variations to Try

Adding a Streusel Topping

• Combine flour, sugar, butter, and cinnamon to create a crumbly topping for extra texture.

Using Different Berries

• Swap blueberries for raspberries, blackberries, or a mix of your favorite berries.

How to Serve Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread

• Enjoy it warm with a pat of butter.
• Pair it with a hot cup of tea or coffee.
• Serve slices with a dollop of whipped cream for dessert.

Storing and Freezing

Keeping it Fresh for Days

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to a week.

Freezing Instructions

• Wrap the fully cooled bread in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Conclusion

This Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that’s perfect for any time of day. With its rich cream cheese layer and juicy blueberries, it’s bound to become a favorite in your household. Try it today, and you’ll see why this recipe is such a crowd-pleaser!

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen blueberries?
Yes! Just make sure to toss them in flour before adding to the batter to prevent them from sinking.

2. How do I prevent the blueberries from sinking?
Coat the blueberries in a bit of flour before folding them into the batter.

3. Can I make this bread gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

4. How do I know when the bread is fully baked?
Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, it’s ready.

5. Can I skip the cream cheese filling?
Absolutely! You can make this bread without the cream cheese for a simpler blueberry loaf.