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Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Swirl

A delightful pumpkin bread featuring a luscious cream cheese swirl and warm spices, perfect for celebrating autumn.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Breakfast, Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American, Baked Goods
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Dry Ingredients
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour Provides the structure and base for the bread.
  • 1 tbsp baking powder Acts as a leavening agent to achieve a light texture.
  • 1 tsp baking soda Helps the bread rise while balancing the acidity of the pumpkin.
  • 2 tsp ground cinnamon Adds warm, aromatic sweetness characteristic of fall.
  • 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg Contributes an earthy, nutty flavor that enhances the spice blend.
  • 1/2 tsp ground ginger Offers a subtle warmth that complements the sweetness of the pumpkin.
  • 1/4 tsp ground cloves Adds depth and complexity, bringing a hint of sweetness and warmth.
Wet Ingredients
  • 1 cup pumpkin puree Provides moisture and rich flavor; the star ingredient.
  • 1 cup brown sugar Infuses sweetness with a hint of caramel notes.
  • 1/2 cup sour cream Keeps the bread moist and adds a slight tang to balance the sweetness.
  • 3 large eggs Binds the ingredients together and enhances the bread's richness.
  • 1/2 cup canola oil Introduces moisture without altering the flavor profile.
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract Adds a fragrant sweetness that rounds out the flavors.
Cream Cheese Swirl
  • 8 oz cream cheese Creates the luscious, creamy swirl that elevates the bread.
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar Sweetens the cream cheese filling, balancing its tanginess.
  • 1 large egg yolk Adds richness and helps bind the cream cheese mixture.
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (for cream cheese swirl) Thickens the filling for a smooth texture.
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract (for cream cheese swirl) Enhances the flavor of the cream cheese filling.
Glaze
  • 1 cup confectioners’ sugar Used for the glaze, adds sweetness for a final touch.
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon (for glaze) Adds a warm flavor to complement the glaze.
  • 1-2 tbsp milk (for glaze) Adjusts the consistency for easy drizzling.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare an 8 x 4 loaf pan by lining it with parchment paper and spraying it with baking spray.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and spices until evenly combined.
  3. In a medium bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, sour cream, eggs, canola oil, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  4. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined, taking care not to overmix.
Cream Cheese Filling
  1. In another bowl, whisk together the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, egg yolk, all-purpose flour, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
Assembly
  1. Pour half of the pumpkin batter into the prepared loaf pan, then create a small well in the center and add the cream cheese mixture, leaving a 1/4-inch border around the edge.
  2. Top with the remaining pumpkin batter, smoothing it out evenly over the cream cheese layer.
Baking
  1. Place in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 60 to 65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  2. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before carefully using the parchment paper to remove it and place it on a cooling rack to cool completely.
Glazing
  1. In a small bowl, whisk together the confectioners’ sugar, ground cinnamon, and enough milk to achieve a thick drizzling consistency.
  2. Once the bread is completely cooled, drizzle the cinnamon glaze over the top, slice, and enjoy your delicious creation!

Notes

To ensure optimal results, avoid using cold ingredients and do not overmix the batter. Feel free to swap pumpkin puree for applesauce or add nuts for texture. Store tightly wrapped at room temperature or freeze slices for longer freshness.