Name: Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: PT-483146H57M59S
Total time: 1 h 25 min
Ingredients: 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup milk (or buttermilk); 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries (tossed in 1 tablespoon flour); 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

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Is there anything better than the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through your kitchen? Let me introduce you to a recipe that’s bound to steal your heart: Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread. This delightful treat combines the tangy creaminess of cheesecake with the soft, buttery texture of classic quick bread—all crowned with juicy bursts of blueberries in every bite.

I discovered this recipe during one of my “what’s-in-the-fridge” baking adventures. I wanted something comforting yet elevated—a treat that would impress guests but also feel like a personal indulgence. What came out of my oven was nothing short of magic! Whether you’re hosting a brunch or just need a sweet pick-me-up, this Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread is your go-to.

Let’s dive into how you can whip up this deliciousness right in your own kitchen. Trust me, it’s easier than you think!

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

The key to a successful bake is starting with the right ingredients. For this recipe, you’ll need pantry staples like all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, sugar, and butter. Fresh blueberries are ideal for their burst of flavor, but frozen ones work just as well—just toss them in a bit of flour to prevent sinking. And let’s not forget the star of the show: cream cheese. Make sure it’s softened for a velvety-smooth filling.

Here’s What You’ll Need for the Bread:

1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
¾ cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup milk (or buttermilk for a tangy twist)
1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries (tossed in 1 tablespoon flour)

For the Cream Cheese Filling:

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

Step 2: Preheat the Oven and Prep Your Pan

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even baking and that gorgeous golden crust. Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper. Trust me, this little step makes removing the loaf a breeze—no more struggling to pry it out while risking tears in your masterpiece.

Step 3: Mixing the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This step is crucial for evenly distributed leavening, ensuring your bread rises beautifully.

Step 4: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened butter and sugar until it’s light and fluffy—think soft clouds! This step creates air pockets, giving your bread a tender texture. Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Now your batter is rich and fragrant, setting the stage for the rest of the magic.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add your dry ingredients to the creamed mixture, alternating with milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients—it helps keep the batter cohesive and prevents overmixing. Once combined, gently fold in the floured blueberries. Be careful here; overmixing can squish those precious berries, and we want them to stay intact for those delightful little pops of flavor.

Continuation of the Recipe and Tips

Step 6: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling

Now comes the exciting part—creating that creamy, dreamy layer of goodness that takes this bread to the next level. In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and velvety. A handheld or stand mixer works perfectly for this step. Once ready, set it aside while we assemble the bread.

Step 7: Assemble Your Masterpiece

Here’s where all the components come together into one delicious loaf.

Start by pouring half of the bread batter into your prepared loaf pan. Spread it out evenly, making sure it reaches all the edges.
Next, carefully dollop the cream cheese filling over the batter, spreading it gently with a spatula to form an even layer. Pro tip: Don’t rush this step! Spreading the cream cheese too aggressively can mix it into the batter, and we want those distinct layers to shine.
Finally, top it off with the remaining batter. Spread it gently again, ensuring it completely covers the cream cheese layer. It might feel like a little puzzle, but the end result is worth it!

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Place the assembled loaf in the preheated oven and bake for 55–65 minutes. The aroma will be irresistible, but try not to open the oven door too often—it can disrupt the baking process and cause the loaf to sink.

You’ll know your bread is ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean (don’t confuse melted cream cheese with uncooked batter!). If the top starts browning too quickly, loosely tent the loaf with aluminum foil during the last 15 minutes of baking.

Step 9: Cool Completely (If You Can Wait!)

Once your bread is baked to perfection, let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This rest time helps it firm up slightly, making it easier to handle. Then, use the parchment paper to lift the loaf out and transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Pro tip: Resist the temptation to slice it right away! Letting it cool ensures the cream cheese filling sets properly, giving you those beautiful layers when you cut into it.

Helpful Tips and Variations

1. Customize Your Blueberries:
While blueberries are the star here, you can switch things up by using raspberries, blackberries, or even chopped strawberries. Just be sure to toss them in a bit of flour to keep them from sinking to the bottom of the batter.

2. Make It Extra Sweet:
For a finishing touch, consider drizzling a glaze over the cooled loaf. A simple mix of powdered sugar, milk, and a splash of vanilla extract makes for a sweet, bakery-style topping.

3. Freeze for Later:
This bread freezes beautifully, making it a great make-ahead option. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a resealable freezer bag. Thaw at room temperature or microwave for a quick treat.

4. Make It Mini:
If you’re planning to gift this bread or want smaller portions, divide the batter into mini loaf pans. Adjust the baking time to around 25–35 minutes, checking frequently toward the end.

5. Add Some Crunch:
For added texture, sprinkle a streusel topping or slivered almonds over the top of the batter before baking. The contrast between the crunchy topping and the soft bread is divine!

FAQ Section

Here are some common questions to ensure your Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread turns out perfect every time:

Q1: Can I use frozen blueberries instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen blueberries work just as well. Just toss them in a tablespoon of flour before folding them into the batter. This helps prevent them from sinking to the bottom of the loaf. Don’t thaw them first—using them frozen keeps the batter from turning blue.

Q2: What’s the best way to soften cream cheese?
The quickest way to soften cream cheese is to cut it into cubes and let it sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes. If you’re in a hurry, you can microwave it for about 10 seconds on low power.

Q3: How do I prevent the bread from sinking in the middle?
To avoid sinking, make sure not to overmix the batter (especially after adding the blueberries) and bake the bread until fully done. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean, though some cream cheese on the toothpick is fine as long as there’s no wet batter.

Q4: Can I substitute the cream cheese filling with something else?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can skip the cream cheese filling and instead swirl in a few tablespoons of Greek yogurt or jam for a different flavor profile.

Q5: How should I store this bread?
Store the bread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4–5 days. Bring slices to room temperature or lightly warm them in the microwave before serving. For longer storage, freeze slices wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in a resealable freezer bag for up to three months.

Q6: Why does my cream cheese filling seem runny?
This might happen if the cream cheese wasn’t softened enough before mixing. To fix it next time, ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature and mix until completely smooth before adding the other ingredients.

Q7: Can I make this bread gluten-free?
Yes! Use a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour substitute that’s designed for baking. Check the label to make sure it includes xanthan gum for structure, which mimics gluten’s effects.

Conclusion

And there you have it—the ultimate Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread recipe! This delightful loaf is the perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and buttery flavors, with a texture that’s soft, moist, and just a little decadent. Whether you’re making it for brunch, dessert, or a midday snack, it’s sure to be a hit with everyone who tries it.

What I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is. Want to try it with different berries? Go for it! Want to add a crunchy streusel topping or drizzle it with icing? Absolutely. This bread is as customizable as it is delicious, making it a recipe you’ll return to again and again.

I’d love to hear how your bread turned out—did you stick with the classic blueberry version or try a fun variation? Share your results and any tips in the comments below. And don’t forget to snap a photo and tag me on social media—I can’t wait to see your creations!