Pumpkin Spice Cream Cheese Bread Recipe

Oh my gosh, have you ever tried pumpkin spice cream cheese bread? It’s the coziest thing ever! I love how the spicy smell fills the kitchen.

When you slice into it, the cream cheese layer is like a sweet surprise. It’s soft and creamy, and the pumpkin spice just makes it perfect. I swear, it’s like fall in every bite.

I always think, “I need to make this more!” It’s so easy, and it makes me happy. It’s perfect for sharing with friends or just for me with my coffee.

You should totally try it too! Let’s grab our ingredients and get started. It’s going to be so yummy!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ultimate Fall Flavor: Infused with cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, and cloves, this bread is the epitome of fall in every bite.
• Cream Cheese Surprise: A sweet cream cheese filling that adds a delicious tangy richness to every slice.
• Moist and Tender: The combination of pumpkin puree and vegetable oil ensures this bread is incredibly moist and stays fresh for days.
• Easy to Make: No complicated steps here, just simple ingredients that come together effortlessly.
• Perfect for Sharing: Bake a loaf for yourself, or give it away as a thoughtful homemade gift to friends and family.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a batch ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week for breakfast, dessert, or a satisfying snack.

Required Kitchen Tools

Before diving into the recipe, here’s a quick list of kitchen tools you’ll need to make your Pumpkin Spice Cream Cheese Bread. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable!

• Loaf Pan: A standard 9×5-inch loaf pan is ideal for this recipe.
• Mixing Bowls: You’ll need at least two—one for the dry ingredients and one for the wet ingredients.
• Hand Mixer or Stand Mixer: This is helpful for easily mixing the wet ingredients, but a whisk and elbow grease work fine too!
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements ensure the best result, so don’t skip these!
• Spatula: For folding the batter and cream cheese mixture into the pan.

Ingredients

You probably already have most of these ingredients in your pantry, and with just a few additions, you’ll be on your way to creating a delicious loaf of pumpkin spice heaven. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Cheese Batter:

• Cream Cheese (room temperature): The star of the show for that sweet, tangy swirl in the middle of the bread.
• Large Egg (room temperature, lightly beaten): Helps bind the cheese mixture together.
• Powdered Sugar: For sweetness and smoothness in the cheese batter.
• Pure Vanilla Extract: Adds depth to the flavor of the cream cheese batter.

For the Pumpkin Spice Batter:

• Brown Sugar (lightly packed): Adds a rich sweetness that pairs perfectly with pumpkin.
• Large Eggs: These help make the bread light and airy.
• Pumpkin Puree: You’ll need pure pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling), which gives the bread its flavor and moisture.
• Vegetable Oil: Ensures the bread stays moist and tender.
• Pure Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
• All-Purpose Flour: The base of the batter, providing structure.
• Baking Powder: Helps the bread rise.
• Baking Soda: Works with the acid in the pumpkin puree to give the bread a light texture.
• Salt: Just a pinch to balance out the sweetness.
• Cinnamon: A must-have for that perfect pumpkin spice flavor.
• Pumpkin Pie Spice: Adds that quintessential spice blend, with hints of nutmeg, allspice, and ginger.
• Ground Cloves: For an extra depth of spice and warmth.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making Pumpkin Spice Cream Cheese Bread is super simple, especially when you follow these steps. I’ll guide you through each part so that you can bake with confidence!

1. Preheat Your Oven and Prepare the Loaf Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or spray it with non-stick cooking spray, and lightly dust it with flour to ensure your bread doesn’t stick.

2. Make the Cream Cheese Filling

In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the room-temperature cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat everything together until smooth and creamy. Add the lightly beaten egg and mix until fully incorporated. Set aside the cream cheese mixture.

3. Prepare the Pumpkin Spice Batter

In another mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, ground cloves, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Make sure everything is evenly combined.

In a separate large bowl, combine the brown sugar, eggs, pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Use a hand mixer or whisk to beat everything together until smooth. Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, mixing until fully incorporated. The batter will be thick and smooth.

4. Layer the Batter and Cream Cheese Filling

Pour half of the pumpkin spice batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it out evenly with a spatula. Next, spoon the cream cheese mixture on top of the batter. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to gently spread the cream cheese filling into an even layer. Finally, top with the remaining pumpkin spice batter, spreading it over the cream cheese layer.

5. Swirl the Cream Cheese Filling (Optional)

For a beautiful marbled effect, use a butter knife or skewer to gently swirl the cream cheese filling through the pumpkin spice batter. Don’t overdo it—just a few gentle swirls will give you that perfect marbled look.

6. Bake the Bread

Place the loaf pan into the preheated oven and bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the bread comes out clean (with just a few moist crumbs attached). The top of the bread should be golden brown, and you may also see a slight cracking on the top.

7. Cool and Slice

Once the bread is baked, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Afterward, transfer the bread to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. This ensures that the bread retains its moist texture.

Variations for Pumpkin Spice Cream Cheese Bread

This Pumpkin Spice Cream Cheese Bread is already pretty perfect, but if you want to get creative, here are a few variations you can try:

• Add Nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans can be folded into the pumpkin batter for a crunchy, nutty contrast.
• Swirl in Chocolate Chips: If you’re a fan of chocolate, add a handful of mini chocolate chips to the pumpkin batter for a rich and decadent twist.
• Make it Vegan: Use dairy-free cream cheese and a flax egg in place of the regular egg to make the bread vegan-friendly.
• Pumpkin Spice Glaze: Drizzle a sweet glaze on top of the bread made from powdered sugar and a bit of milk or cream for an extra touch of sweetness.

How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Cream Cheese Bread

Now that you’ve made your mouthwatering Pumpkin Spice Cream Cheese Bread, it’s time to think about how to serve it! Whether you’re enjoying it on your own or sharing it with family and friends, this bread is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with many different accompaniments.

1. As a Standalone Snack

This pumpkin spice bread is divine all on its own, with no extra fuss needed. A warm slice straight out of the oven (or after it’s been cooled to room temperature) is a perfect snack to enjoy with your morning coffee or as a comforting treat throughout the day. The tangy cream cheese swirl and the aromatic spices make each bite a cozy experience.

2. With a Hot Beverage

Pair this delicious bread with your favorite fall drinks for the ultimate seasonal experience:

• Coffee: Whether it’s a classic cup of black coffee or a frothy pumpkin spice latte, the deep flavor of the bread pairs wonderfully with your caffeine of choice.
• Tea: A warm cup of chai tea or cinnamon-infused herbal tea complements the spices in the bread, creating a soothing pairing.
• Apple Cider: If you’re looking for a non-caffeinated beverage, a cup of warm apple cider or a spiced hot chocolate would be the perfect pairing for a cozy, comforting snack.

3. For Dessert

If you’re serving this bread for dessert, you can elevate it with a few extra touches:

• Top with Whipped Cream: For a slightly indulgent treat, top a slice with freshly whipped cream or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
• Drizzle with Caramel Sauce: A light drizzle of caramel over the top of each slice can add a sweet contrast to the warm pumpkin and spice flavors.
• Dust with Powdered Sugar: For a simple but elegant touch, dust the top of the bread with powdered sugar right before serving.

4. For Breakfast or Brunch

Pumpkin Spice Cream Cheese Bread is a fantastic addition to any fall brunch or breakfast spread. Serve slices with:

• Fresh Fruit: A side of fresh berries or sliced apples adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the bread.
• Yogurt: Top with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of honey to balance the sweetness and add a creamy texture.
• Eggs: If you’re having a more savory breakfast, consider pairing a slice of this bread with scrambled eggs or a breakfast sandwich.

Storing Pumpkin Spice Cream Cheese Bread

If you happen to have any leftover Pumpkin Spice Cream Cheese Bread (which is a big “if”), there are several ways to store it to keep it fresh for days!

Storing at Room Temperature

If you plan to enjoy the bread within 2-3 days, you can store it at room temperature:

1. Wrap it tightly: Use plastic wrap or aluminum foil to wrap the bread, ensuring it’s airtight to prevent drying out.
2. Place it in an airtight container: After wrapping, store the bread in a sealed container or a resealable plastic bag to help preserve its freshness.
3. Keep it in a cool, dry place: Make sure the bread is stored in a cool, dry spot away from direct sunlight or heat sources.

Storing in the Refrigerator

For longer shelf life, especially if you plan on keeping the bread for up to a week, store it in the refrigerator:

1. Wrap the bread tightly: Use plastic wrap or foil and then place it in an airtight container to avoid the bread absorbing any odors from the fridge.
2. Refrigerate: The cream cheese filling may require refrigeration, so it’s best to store the entire loaf in the fridge.

Freezing Pumpkin Spice Cream Cheese Bread

If you’ve made a large batch of Pumpkin Spice Cream Cheese Bread and want to keep it for an extended period, freezing is the way to go:

1. Slice the bread: It’s best to slice the bread before freezing, as this will make it easier to take out individual portions as needed.
2. Wrap tightly: Wrap each slice or the entire loaf tightly in plastic wrap or foil. For extra protection, place the wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag.
3. Freeze for up to 3 months: The bread will stay fresh in the freezer for up to 3 months, so you can enjoy it even when fall feels far behind.

Thawing Pumpkin Spice Cream Cheese Bread

To enjoy frozen Pumpkin Spice Cream Cheese Bread:

1. Thaw at room temperature: Let the bread sit at room temperature for 2-3 hours.
2. Reheat slices: You can reheat individual slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or wrap the entire loaf in foil and warm it in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes to get it soft and fresh again.

Nutrition Information

While I can’t guarantee this bread will be low in calories (because let’s face it, it’s a treat), here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutrition per serving (one slice, based on 12 slices per loaf). These values are based on typical ingredients and may vary slightly depending on specific brands used.

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	250
Total Fat	14g
Saturated Fat	6g
Trans Fat	0g
Cholesterol	40mg
Sodium	200mg
Total Carbohydrates	31g
Dietary Fiber	1g
Sugars	19g
Protein	3g
Vitamin A	35% DV
Vitamin C	2% DV
Calcium	2% DV
Iron	4% DV

Pumpkin Spice Cream Cheese Bread FAQs

As you prepare to bake your Pumpkin Spice Cream Cheese Bread, you might have some questions. Don’t worry—I’ve got you covered! Here are some frequently asked questions to help you troubleshoot, personalize, and make this recipe even better.

Can I Use Fresh Pumpkin Instead of Canned Puree?

Yes, you can! If you’re feeling extra seasonal and want to use fresh pumpkin, you can cook and puree it yourself. To do so:

1. Cut the pumpkin in half, scoop out the seeds, and roast the halves in the oven at 375°F for about 45 minutes until soft.
2. Scoop out the flesh and blend it until smooth. You’ll need about 1 ½ cups of pumpkin puree for this recipe. Using fresh pumpkin can yield a slightly different texture, but it will still taste delicious!

Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?

Absolutely! To make this Pumpkin Spice Cream Cheese Bread gluten-free, simply swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend. I recommend using a 1:1 gluten-free flour substitute that contains xanthan gum for the best results. Additionally, be sure to check that your baking powder and other ingredients are gluten-free.

Can I Make This Bread Without the Cream Cheese Swirl?

While the cream cheese filling is what makes this bread extra special, you can absolutely make this recipe without it if you prefer a simpler loaf. Just increase the amount of pumpkin spice batter to fill the loaf pan. The bread will still be moist and flavorful!

How Can I Add More Spice to the Bread?

If you love a strong spice kick, feel free to adjust the spices in the recipe. You can:

• Increase the cinnamon by ½ teaspoon for a more prominent cinnamon flavor.
• Add extra pumpkin pie spice or ground ginger for an additional layer of warmth.
• Add ground nutmeg for a rich, slightly nutty taste.

How Do I Know When the Bread Is Fully Baked?

The best way to tell if your Pumpkin Spice Cream Cheese Bread is done is by inserting a toothpick or cake tester into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean with only a few moist crumbs attached, the bread is ready. If the toothpick comes out with wet batter, bake the bread for an additional 5-10 minutes and check again.

Can I Freeze the Cream Cheese Bread?

Yes, freezing this bread is a great way to make it last longer. To freeze it:

1. Cool completely before wrapping.
2. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container.
3. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw at room temperature or reheat in the oven.

Can I Add Mix-Ins Like Nuts or Chocolate Chips?

Definitely! If you enjoy adding texture to your bread, you can fold in some mix-ins like:

• Chopped pecans or walnuts for a crunchy contrast.
• Mini chocolate chips for a sweet surprise in every bite.
• Dried cranberries or raisins for a touch of tartness.

If you decide to add mix-ins, about ½ cup to 1 cup of your desired ingredients should be enough.

Conclusion

There’s nothing quite like the warmth and comfort of a freshly baked loaf of Pumpkin Spice Cream Cheese Bread. With its moist, spiced pumpkin base and creamy, tangy cream cheese filling, this bread perfectly captures the essence of fall. Whether you’re enjoying it for breakfast, as a snack, or as a dessert, it’s bound to become a favorite in your baking rotation.

The best part is, this recipe is incredibly versatile—add your favorite mix-ins, adjust the spices to your liking, or even swap out ingredients to suit dietary preferences. You can also make it ahead, store it, and even freeze it for later enjoyment. Its rich flavors and soft texture are perfect for cozy mornings, family gatherings, or as a thoughtful homemade gift.

So, whether you’re baking it to share or keeping it all to yourself (I won’t judge!), this Pumpkin Spice Cream Cheese Bread is sure to bring the comfort of autumn right into your kitchen. I hope you give this recipe a try, and if you do, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Happy baking, and may your kitchen be filled with the delicious smells of fall!