If you’re looking for a treat that wraps up the cozy flavors of fall with a luscious twist, this Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bread Recipe is an absolute must-try. Combining moist, warmly spiced pumpkin bread with a creamy, velvety cheese swirl, it’s like autumn in every bite. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering or a comforting weekend breakfast, this recipe brings together simple ingredients that create something truly special and indulgent.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a top view of various baking ingredients arranged on a white marbled surface. There are three white eggs in the center surrounded by small white bowls and measuring cups containing light brown sugar, white flour, milk, white cream cheese, pumpkin puree, cinnamon powder, vanilla extract, baking powder, and salt. The brown sugar sits in a white measuring cup on the top right, while the pumpkin puree is in a clear glass container on the right side. The flour fills a large white bowl at the bottom left, and the cream cheese is in a clear glass bowl just below the center. The ingredients are neatly spaced around the eggs, creating a balanced and clean layout. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient in this Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bread Recipe is carefully chosen to balance flavor, texture, and color. From warm spices to creamy cheese, each element plays a vital role in making this bread irresistibly delicious and visually stunning.

2 large eggs: These provide structure and richness to the bread.
½ cup melted coconut oil (or olive oil): Adds moisture and a subtle depth of flavor.
1 cup pumpkin purée: The star of the show, bringing natural sweetness and a vibrant orange tone.
1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances all the warm spices and adds aromatic complexity.
1 ½ cups whole wheat flour (or Paleo flour): Provides wholesome texture and acts as the bread’s base.
1 tsp pumpkin pie spice: A cozy mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove that defines the classic pumpkin flavor.
1 tsp cinnamon: Adds warmth and a touch of sweetness.
½ tsp sea salt: Balances the sweetness and intensifies flavors.
¾ cup coconut sugar (or brown sugar): Sweetens naturally, with a caramel-like richness.
1 tsp baking soda: Helps the bread rise and keeps it light.
4 ounces softened cream cheese: For the creamy, dreamy filling that contrasts beautifully with the spiced bread.
¼ cup sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese layer perfectly.
1 large egg yolk: Gives the cream cheese filling a silky texture.

How to Make Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bread Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan

Start by setting your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and lining a bread pan with parchment paper. This ensures your bread bakes evenly and releases effortlessly once it’s done.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, melted coconut oil, pumpkin purée, and vanilla extract until fully combined. This mix forms the moist, flavorful base of your bread, infusing it with pumpkin goodness and aromatic vanilla.

Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients

Sift in the whole wheat flour, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, sea salt, coconut sugar, and baking soda. Mixing them in gently ensures an even distribution of spice and sweetness throughout the batter, which ultimately gives the bread its signature fall flavor.

Step 4: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling

In a separate bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sugar, and egg yolk. Use an electric or stand mixer to beat until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy. This luscious filling will create beautiful swirls and a decadent texture within the bread.

Step 5: Assemble the Layers

Pour three-quarters of the pumpkin bread batter into your lined bread pan, smoothing it out to create an even base. Then, carefully spread the cream cheese filling on top, evening it out to cover the pumpkin layer completely. Finally, dollop and smooth the remaining pumpkin bread batter over the filling to seal in the creamy center.

Step 6: Bake Until Perfect

Bake your assembled loaf for 40 to 50 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean—expect a little cream cheese to cling since of that decadent filling. Once baked, allow it to cool slightly before removing it from the pan.

How to Serve Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bread Recipe

The image shows three thick slices of pumpkin bread with a creamy white layer in the middle, placed on light brown parchment paper over a white marbled surface. Each slice has two layers of moist, orange-brown pumpkin bread with a smooth, slightly shiny cream cheese filling layer running through the center. The texture of the bread looks soft and spongy, while the cream cheese layer is smooth and dense. The background features a white white-marble pattern with soft natural light illuminating the bread and highlighting its texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Sprinkle a dusting of powdered sugar or a light glaze made from maple syrup and cinnamon to enhance both the look and flavor. You can also add chopped toasted pecans on top for extra crunch and nuttiness that complements the soft, creamy bread.

Side Dishes

This bread is a perfect partner for your morning cup of coffee or a steaming mug of chai tea. For brunch, serve it alongside fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream to create a beautiful, balanced plate that’s both comforting and vibrant.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice and toast individual pieces, then spread with a little butter or honey for a quick snack. Alternatively, turn leftover slices into French toast batter for an indulgent breakfast twist that pairs perfectly with cinnamon and syrup.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap your Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bread Recipe tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh at room temperature for up to three days or in the fridge for about a week, keeping that tender texture and creamy filling intact.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy this bread later, freeze it by wrapping tightly in foil and placing it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature before serving.

Reheating

Warm slices gently in a toaster oven or microwave for a few seconds to revive that fresh-baked softness and make the cream cheese filling delightfully melty. Avoid overheating to keep it from drying out.

FAQs

Can I substitute the cream cheese in the filling?

You can use mascarpone or ricotta cheese as a substitute, but keep in mind the texture and flavor will differ slightly. Cream cheese gives the most traditional, tangy richness that pairs beautifully with pumpkin.

Is it possible to make this bread gluten-free?

Yes! Swap the whole wheat flour for a certified gluten-free flour blend or use Paleo flour as noted in the recipe. Just be sure to check that the baking soda and other ingredients are gluten-free.

Can I use canned pumpkin purée?

Absolutely! Canned pumpkin purée works perfectly and is convenient year-round. Just choose the plain pumpkin purée, not pumpkin pie filling, which has added sugars and spices.

How long will the bread stay fresh?

Stored at room temperature, the bread stays fresh for about three days. Refrigerating can extend its life to around a week. For longer storage, freezing is your best bet.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?

Definitely! Chopped walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips make wonderful additions that add texture and extra flavor. Fold them into the batter before assembling the layers.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so comforting about homemade bread with a creamy surprise inside, and this Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bread Recipe nails it every time. It’s an easy, satisfying way to bring seasonal flavors into your kitchen, and I hope you enjoy baking and sharing it as much as I do. Give it a go, and get ready to fall in love with every bonfire-worthy bite!