If you have a soft spot for luscious, fruity treats wrapped in tender, buttery crumb, then this Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread Recipe will quickly become your new obsession. Imagine biting into a moist, tender bread bursting with sweet, juicy blueberries, perfectly complemented by a smooth, tangy cream cheese swirl that takes every bite to the next level of deliciousness. Whether it’s a cozy breakfast, a teatime delight, or a weekend brunch star, this recipe strikes the perfect balance between simple comfort and a touch of culinary magic that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread Recipe plays a crucial role, bringing texture, flavor, and that irresistible freshness to the loaf. These basics are easy to find but together create a beautifully balanced, moist bread with vibrant blueberry bursts and creamy swirl goodness.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation providing structure and fluffiness to the bread.
- 1 tsp baking powder: Helps give the bread a light rise and tender crumb.
- 1/2 tsp baking soda: Works with the acidity of buttermilk to add lift and softness.
- 1/4 tsp salt: Enhances all the sweet and tangy flavors without overpowering them.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Provides sweetness while creating a tender crumb.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed: Adds moisture and a hint of caramel depth to the bread.
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil: Keeps the bread moist and tender for days.
- 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients and create a rich texture.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Infuses warmth and a subtle sweetness into every bite.
- 3/4 cup buttermilk: Brings acidity to tenderize the bread and activate the leavening agents.
- 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries: Bursting with juicy fruit flavor, they contrast the creamy swirl perfectly.
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened: The star of the swirl, delivering tangy creaminess throughout the loaf.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese filling just right.
- 1 large egg: Ensures the cream cheese filling is rich and holds together nicely.
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract: Adds a fragrant note to the cream cheese swirl.
How to Make Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan
Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s perfectly heated when your batter is ready. Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or simply line it with parchment paper for an easy release after baking. This helps create a perfect crust while keeping the bread moist inside.
Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Swirl
Beat together the softened cream cheese, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until the mixture is silky smooth and creamy. This luscious filling will weave decadence throughout the bread, giving every slice a luscious swirl that is impossible to resist.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This dry mix is what gives structure and rise to the Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread Recipe, so be sure to combine them well for an even texture.
Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, vanilla extract, and buttermilk. The mix should be smooth and glossy, ready to bring moisture and tenderness to the bread.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry until just combined to avoid overmixing, which can make your bread tough. The batter should be moist and slightly lumpy—not perfectly smooth.
Step 6: Fold in Blueberries
Carefully fold in the blueberries to distribute them evenly throughout the batter. If you’re using frozen blueberries, do not thaw them beforehand, as this helps keep the batter from turning purple and watery.
Step 7: Layer Batter and Cream Cheese Filling
Pour half of the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly on top, then pour the remaining batter over it, smoothing the surface gently. This layering creates that stunning cream cheese swirl effect when baked.
Step 8: Bake
Bake the bread for 55 to 65 minutes until golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. If you notice the top is browning too quickly, cover it loosely with foil during the last 10 to 15 minutes. This helps maintain a perfect golden crust without burning.
Step 9: Cool and Serve
Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before removing it to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is key for clean slicing and to allow the flavors and textures to fully settle in.
How to Serve Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread Recipe
Garnishes
A simple dusting of powdered sugar brightens the look and adds a delicate sweetness. Fresh blueberries or a sprig of mint on the side bring a pop of color that makes this bread as beautiful as it is delicious.
Side Dishes
This bread pairs wonderfully with a cup of warm tea or coffee, a dollop of whipped cream, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to turn it into a decadent dessert. Fruit salads or light yogurt parfaits complement the fruity cream cheese profile too.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve thick slices toasted with a smear of butter for breakfast, or cut into bite-sized squares for a crowd-pleasing brunch platter. You can also turn leftovers into a fabulous bread pudding or French toast for a delicious twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap the Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread Recipe tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to keep it fresh for up to 3 days at room temperature. This preserves both the moisture of the bread and the creaminess of the swirl.
Freezing
This loaf freezes beautifully—wrap it well in plastic wrap and then in foil, or place in a large freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. For best results, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating
To enjoy the bread warm, slice and toast it lightly, or warm in a 300°F oven for 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it can make the cream cheese swirl too soft and the texture less enjoyable.
FAQs
Can I substitute frozen blueberries for fresh?
Absolutely! Using frozen blueberries works perfectly in this recipe. Just be sure not to thaw them before folding into the batter to prevent color bleeding and a watery texture.
Can I use a different type of cheese for the swirl?
Cream cheese is best for its smooth texture and tangy flavor, but mascarpone can be a substitute if you prefer a milder taste. Just note that it’s slightly softer and sweeter.
Is this bread suitable for freezing?
Yes! The Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread Recipe freezes very well. Make sure to wrap it properly so it maintains its moisture and freshness when thawed.
How long does this bread stay fresh?
Stored at room temperature in an airtight container, the bread stays fresh for about 3 days. Refrigeration can extend this to about a week but might dry it out slightly.
Can I make mini loaves or muffins from this recipe?
You sure can! Use the same batter to fill muffin tins or mini loaf pans, adjusting the baking time to about 20-30 minutes for muffins and 35-45 minutes for mini loaves.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a dessert or breakfast that feels like a warm hug, you owe it to yourself to make this Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread Recipe. It’s simple, stunning, and utterly scrumptious—the kind of recipe that stays with you and becomes a beloved staple. Give it a try, and watch it quickly become one of your family’s all-time favorites!
Print
Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings 1x
Description
A delightful Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread combining moist, tender batter studded with fresh blueberries and a rich, creamy swirl of sweetened cream cheese baked to perfection. This quick bread is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet snack, offering a harmonious balance of fruity and creamy flavors with a soft crumb.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
Sugars and Fats
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
Wet Ingredients
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup buttermilk
Fruit
- 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries (if frozen, do not thaw)
Cream Cheese Swirl
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×5-inch loaf pan by greasing and flouring it, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Prepare Cream Cheese Swirl: In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 1 large egg, and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, and 1/4 teaspoon salt until evenly combined.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1/2 cup packed brown sugar, 1/3 cup vegetable oil, 2 large eggs, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 3/4 cup buttermilk until smooth.
- Mix Batter: Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and gently mix just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender.
- Add Blueberries: Carefully fold in 1 cup of fresh or frozen blueberries, making sure they are evenly distributed without breaking them up.
- Layer Batter and Cream Cheese Swirl: Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly. Dollop the cream cheese mixture over the batter and gently spread it out. Top with the remaining batter, spreading it to cover the cream cheese layer.
- Bake: Place the loaf pan in the oven and bake for 55 to 65 minutes. If the top is browning too quickly, tent it loosely with aluminum foil for the last 10 to 15 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- Cool: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then transfer the loaf to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Use fresh or frozen blueberries without thawing the frozen ones to prevent the batter from turning blue and watery.
- Do not overmix the batter to keep the bread light and fluffy.
- If you prefer a stronger cream cheese swirl, you can increase the cream cheese filling ingredients proportionally.
- This bread can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to a week.
- For easier slicing, chill the bread before cutting.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55-65 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
