Lemon Cream Cheese Bread

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Bright, buttery, and bursting with citrusy charm, this Lemon Cream Cheese Bread is your new go-to for a sunny pick-me-up any time of year. Whether you’re baking for spring brunch, summer potlucks, or just need a sweet treat with your afternoon tea, this loaf brings the perfect balance of tangy lemon and velvety cream cheese.

The texture is moist and tender, thanks to the rich base of cream cheese baked right into the batter. Then, there’s that dreamy cream cheese swirl on top that melts beautifully into the golden crust, leaving ribbons of tangy sweetness in every bite. If you love lemon desserts with a twist of creamy decadence, this loaf is pure heaven.

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Can I Use Bottled Lemon Juice Instead of Fresh?

Fresh lemon juice and zest are key to the vibrant flavor in this bread. Bottled lemon juice lacks the brightness and aromatic oils found in fresh lemons. If you’re in a pinch, bottled can work—but fresh will give you that real lemony zing that makes this loaf irresistible.

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Ingredients for the Lemon Cream Cheese Bread

Cream Cheese: Adds richness and a smooth, creamy texture that keeps the bread soft and dense in the best way.

Butter: Helps create a tender crumb and adds buttery flavor that pairs perfectly with lemon.

Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the batter and balances the tart lemon flavor.

Eggs: Bind everything together and add structure while keeping the loaf moist.

All-Purpose Flour: The base of the bread, providing structure and fluff.

Baking Powder: Gives the bread its light rise without making it too airy.

Salt: A little pinch enhances the overall flavor and balances the sweetness.

Lemon Zest and Juice: Brings out the bright, citrusy notes that make this loaf shine.

Vanilla Extract: Adds a warm undertone that complements both the lemon and cream cheese.

Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: Keeps the loaf incredibly moist while adding a subtle tang.

Powdered Sugar (optional for glaze): For a drizzle of sweetness on top if you want to get extra fancy.

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How To Make the Lemon Cream Cheese Bread

Step 1: Prepare the Pan and Preheat

Grease and line a standard loaf pan with parchment paper. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures an even bake and easy removal later.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Cream Cheese

In a large bowl, beat softened butter and cream cheese together until smooth and fluffy. This step is crucial for achieving a velvety texture in the final bread.

Step 3: Add Sugar and Eggs

Gradually add in the granulated sugar and continue beating until the mixture is light and creamy. Then, add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

Step 4: Mix in Flavor Boosters

Stir in the vanilla extract, fresh lemon juice, and zest. This is where the magic happens—the citrusy aroma will hit you instantly.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Slowly add the dry mix into the wet ingredients, being careful not to overmix.

Step 6: Add the Sour Cream

Fold in the sour cream or Greek yogurt to give the batter an extra moist and tender texture.

Step 7: Create the Swirl

Pour half the batter into the pan, dollop some cream cheese on top, and swirl lightly with a knife. Repeat with the remaining batter and top it off with more cream cheese swirls.

Step 8: Bake to Golden Perfection

Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be golden and slightly crackly.

Step 9: Cool and Glaze (Optional)

Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Once fully cooled, drizzle with a simple lemon glaze if desired.

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How to Serve and Store Lemon Cream Cheese Bread

This bread is dreamy when served slightly warm or at room temperature. Pair it with a cup of hot tea or iced coffee for a midday treat. It also works wonderfully as a brunch centerpiece or a thoughtful homemade gift.

To store, wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap or place in an airtight container. It keeps well at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for up to 1 week. You can also freeze individual slices for a grab-and-go treat later.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this bread ahead of time?

Yes! In fact, the flavors deepen overnight. Just store it tightly wrapped and serve the next day.

Can I freeze Lemon Cream Cheese Bread?

Absolutely. Let it cool completely, then wrap slices in plastic and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.

What’s the best way to reheat a slice?

A quick 15-20 seconds in the microwave does the trick. It’ll soften the crumb and warm up the cream cheese just enough.

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?

Yes, both work beautifully. Greek yogurt gives it a slightly tangier edge, while sour cream is a bit creamier.

How do I know when it’s fully baked?

Insert a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s ready.

Can I add mix-ins?

Definitely! Try folding in blueberries or white chocolate chips for a fruity or sweet twist.

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Want More Dessert Bread Ideas?

If you love this Lemon Cream Cheese Bread, don’t miss these cozy and creative loaf recipes:

• Triple Chocolate Banana Bread for a rich, fudgy twist.
• Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding if you want fruity indulgence in every bite.
• Pineapple Upside Down Cake Fudge for a tropical and fun dessert alternative.
• Cranberry Brie Pull Apart Bread for a savory-meets-sweet experience.
• Blueberry Cheesecake Heaven Rolls for soft, gooey, berry-filled joy.

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Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add blueberries or extra zest? Maybe you made it with a lemon glaze?

I love seeing your twists on these recipes. Ask questions, share tips, or just pop in to say you baked it—let’s bake better together!

For more drool-worthy dessert ideas, follow me on Pinterest at Life with Nina.

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