Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bread combines everything you love about fall baking – rich pumpkin flavor, cozy spices, and a decadent cream cheese filling. The moist, soft texture of the pumpkin bread pairs perfectly with the creamy, slightly tangy cream cheese swirl. The best part? This bread is easy to make, yet it feels like a special treat, making it perfect for holidays, gatherings, or any time you’re craving something sweet. The combination of spiced pumpkin and sweet cream cheese is irresistible!

Ingredients

For the Pumpkin Bread:

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1 cup canned pumpkin puree
3/4 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cream Cheese Swirl:

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

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Prepare the Pumpkin Bread Batter: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt.
Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate large bowl, whisk together the oil, pumpkin puree, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Prepare the Cream Cheese Swirl: In a small bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
Assemble the Bread: Pour half of the pumpkin batter into the prepared loaf pan. Spread half of the cream cheese mixture over the pumpkin batter. Repeat the layers with the remaining pumpkin batter and cream cheese mixture.
Swirl the Cream Cheese: Using a knife or skewer, gently swirl the cream cheese mixture into the pumpkin batter to create a marbled effect.
Bake the Bread: Bake for 55-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the bread comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. If the bread starts to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with foil during the last 15 minutes of baking.
Cool the Bread: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 10-12 slices
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 55-60 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

Add Nuts: For added texture, fold in chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds into the pumpkin batter before baking.
Add Chocolate Chips: You can add a handful of dairy-free chocolate chips to the pumpkin batter for a sweet chocolate twist.
Vegan Version: For a vegan version, use a plant-based egg substitute (such as flax egg) and replace the cream cheese with a vegan cream cheese alternative.
Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices to your taste. You can add a pinch of cloves or allspice for a more robust flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. If you want to keep it fresh longer, store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Freezing: This bread freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or microwave a slice for a few seconds to warm it up.
Reheating: If the bread becomes too firm, you can gently reheat it in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin?

Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin puree. Just be sure to cook and blend the pumpkin until smooth before using it in the recipe. Ensure it’s not too watery.

Can I make this recipe without cream cheese?

You can make this bread without the cream cheese swirl if you prefer. It will still be a delicious pumpkin bread, but without the creamy filling.

Can I add more spices to the bread?

Yes, you can add more cinnamon, nutmeg, or even cloves to increase the spice flavor. Just be sure to adjust the quantities according to your taste.

How do I know when the bread is done?

The bread is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. If it comes out wet, give it more time in the oven, but be sure not to overbake.

Can I freeze this bread?

Yes, you can freeze Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bread. Once cooled, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Can I use another type of sugar?

You can substitute granulated sugar with brown sugar for a slightly deeper flavor, or use coconut sugar for a more natural alternative.

Can I make this bread gluten-free?

Yes, you can use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour. Make sure it’s a 1:1 ratio blend and includes xanthan gum or guar gum for the best texture.

Can I make mini loaves instead of one large loaf?

Yes, you can use mini loaf pans. Just reduce the baking time to 25-30 minutes and check for doneness with a toothpick.

What can I serve with Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bread?

Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bread is delicious on its own, but you can serve it with a dollop of whipped cream, a drizzle of caramel sauce, or a cup of hot coffee for an extra treat.

Can I use a different type of milk for this recipe?

Yes, you can use any non-dairy milk like almond milk, coconut milk, or soy milk in place of regular milk.

Conclusion

Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bread is the perfect fall treat that combines the flavors of rich pumpkin and creamy cream cheese in a wonderfully spiced loaf. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving something comforting, this bread is easy to make, and it fills your kitchen with the most delicious aroma. With its soft texture, flavorful spices, and creamy filling, it’s a sweet and savory indulgence that everyone will love. Enjoy it fresh out of the oven or save it for later—it’s a delightful treat either way!

Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bread