Lemon Cream Cheese Bread Loaf

Lemon Cream Cheese Bread Loaf

Introduction

If you love the bright, citrusy flavor of lemons combined with the rich, velvety texture of cream cheese, then this Lemon Cream Cheese Bread Loaf is the perfect treat for you! This soft, moist loaf is bursting with fresh lemon zest and juice, layered with a luscious cream cheese filling, and topped with a sweet lemon glaze. Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack, this loaf is a delightful balance of tangy and sweet flavors.

Ingredients

For the Bread:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¼ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
• ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• ½ cup milk

For the Cream Cheese Filling:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 egg
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Lemon Glaze:

• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 1-2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling

1. In a small bowl, beat together cream cheese, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Set aside.

Step 2: Make the Lemon Bread Batter

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large mixing bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in vanilla extract, sour cream, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk, and mix until just combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Loaf

1. Pour half of the lemon batter into the greased loaf pan.
2. Spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the batter.
3. Pour the remaining lemon batter on top, spreading it gently to cover the filling.

Step 4: Bake the Loaf

1. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
2. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 5: Prepare the Lemon Glaze

1. In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth.
2. Drizzle over the cooled loaf before slicing.

Conclusion

This Lemon Cream Cheese Bread Loaf is a heavenly combination of citrus brightness and creamy richness. The tender lemon-infused bread, paired with the smooth cream cheese layer and sweet glaze, creates a bakery-style treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Serve it with coffee or tea, and enjoy every bite of this zesty, indulgent delight! 🍋🍞✨