Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread Recipe

Pumpkin lovers rejoice! The Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread Recipe combines the warm, comforting flavors of pumpkin spice with a luscious cream cheese center, creating a soft, moist, and irresistible loaf perfect for fall mornings, cozy afternoons, or festive gatherings. This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a bakery-worthy bread that melts in your mouth, offering a sweet surprise in every bite. Whether you’re making it for breakfast, dessert, or gifting, this pumpkin bread with cream cheese filling is guaranteed to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread

  • Soft & Moist Texture: Perfectly tender pumpkin bread with a creamy swirl that elevates each bite.

  • Rich Flavor: Pumpkin spice, cinnamon, and vanilla create a warm, comforting aroma.

  • Quick & Easy: Minimal prep time with simple ingredients you likely have at home.

  • Versatile: Enjoy for breakfast, dessert, or even as a sweet snack with coffee or tea.

  • Perfect for Fall: Ideal for Halloween, Thanksgiving, or any cozy autumn day.

  • Budget-Friendly: Affordable ingredients, yet results taste like a gourmet bakery loaf.

  • Customizable: Easy to adapt with nuts, chocolate chips, or gluten-free flour.

  • Impress Guests: Elegant appearance with cream cheese center makes it look professional.

Ingredients for Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread Recipe

Pumpkin Bread Batter

  • 1 cup pumpkin purée (fresh or canned)

  • 2 large eggs

  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil

  • 1 cup granulated sugar

  • 1/4 cup light brown sugar

  • 1/4 cup milk

  • 1 tbsp vanilla extract

  • 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour

  • 1 tsp baking powder

  • 1/2 tsp baking soda

  • 1 tbsp pumpkin pie spice

  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

  • 1/4 tsp salt

Cream Cheese Filling

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened

  • 1 large egg

  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar

  • 3 tbsp all-purpose flour

Ingredient Tips:

  • Pumpkin purée: For richer flavor, roast fresh pumpkin before puréeing.

  • Cream cheese: Full-fat cream cheese ensures a creamy, velvety filling.

  • Spices: Adjust cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger to taste for a more robust aroma.

  • Sugar: Light brown sugar adds moisture and subtle caramel notes.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan thoroughly or line with parchment paper to prevent sticking. A well-greased pan ensures easy removal and keeps the loaf intact.

2. Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together pumpkin purée, eggs, vegetable oil, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and fully combined. The mixture should be uniform and slightly thick.

3. Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, sift or whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, and salt. Properly combining dry ingredients ensures even rising and balanced flavor.

4. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the pumpkin mixture. Stir gently just until incorporated. Avoid overmixing to prevent dense bread; the batter should be smooth but slightly thick.

5. Prepare Cream Cheese Filling

Beat softened cream cheese, egg, sugar, and 3 tablespoons flour until creamy and lump-free. A smooth filling ensures an even, luscious swirl in the pumpkin bread.

6. Layer the Batter and Filling

Pour half of the pumpkin batter into the prepared pan. Spread evenly. Carefully layer the cream cheese filling on top, smoothing it out. Finish with remaining pumpkin batter, leveling the surface gently.

7. Bake the Bread

Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean (a few moist crumbs are okay). Baking times may vary depending on oven type and altitude.

8. Cool and Serve

Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Cooling fully helps the cream cheese center set and makes slicing easier.

Pro Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese

How to Ensure a Perfect Cream Cheese Swirl

  • Beat the cream cheese filling until completely smooth to avoid lumps.

  • Layer carefully, avoid mixing with pumpkin batter for a clean swirl.

Can I Use Frozen Pumpkin Purée?

Yes! Thaw fully and drain excess moisture for consistent texture.

How to Make It Extra Moist

  • Add 1–2 tablespoons of sour cream or Greek yogurt.

  • Use oil instead of butter for softer texture.

Best Ways to Serve Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread

  • Warm slices with a pat of butter or cream cheese spread.

  • Serve with a hot cup of coffee, chai latte, or spiced tea.

  • Pair with other fall desserts like apple crisp or caramel sauce drizzle.

  • Ideal for brunch, potlucks, or festive gatherings.

Nutrition (per serving, approx. 1 slice)

  • Calories: 320 kcal

  • Protein: 5 g

  • Carbs: 45 g

  • Fat: 15 g

  • Saturated Fat: 6 g

  • Fiber: 2 g

  • Sugar: 25 g

Storage & Leftovers

  • Room Temperature: Keep in airtight container for up to 2 days.

  • Refrigerator: Store wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 1 week.

  • Freezer: Slice and freeze for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in fridge.

  • Reheating: Microwave slices for 15–20 seconds or warm in oven for 5 minutes.

FAQs About Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread

How do I prevent the cream cheese from cracking?

  • Avoid overbaking.

  • Use room temperature cream cheese.

  • Mix gently and layer carefully.

Can I make this gluten-free?

  • Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

  • Ensure leavening agents are gluten-free.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?

  • Yes, fold in 1/2 cup of walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips into batter.

  • Toast nuts beforehand for enhanced flavor.

How long will the bread stay fresh?

  • Best eaten within 2–3 days for peak flavor.

  • Freezing preserves freshness for 3 months.

Can I make mini loaves or muffins?

  • Yes! Adjust baking time to 25–30 minutes for muffins or 40–50 minutes for mini loaves.

Variations for Stuffed Pumpkin Bread

  • Vegan: Use flax eggs, coconut milk, and dairy-free cream cheese.

  • Chocolate Swirl: Add cocoa powder to half the batter for marbled chocolate-pumpkin bread.

  • Spiced Orange: Add orange zest and replace milk with orange juice for a citrus twist.

  • Maple Pecan: Top cream cheese filling with maple syrup and chopped pecans before baking.

  • Mini Loaves: Bake in 4×8-inch pans or muffin tins for portable treats.

Conclusion

The Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread Recipe is more than a loaf—it’s a comforting experience, a celebration of fall flavors, and a delightful surprise in every slice. Soft pumpkin bread paired with creamy, tangy filling creates a perfect balance of textures and flavors. Whether baking for family, friends, or yourself, this recipe guarantees smiles and cozy moments.

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