If you’re looking for a moist, tangy, and utterly decadent quick bread that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, this Lemon Cream Cheese Swirl Bread is the answer. Every bite is a balance of zesty lemon flavor, rich cream cheese, and a perfectly tender crumb. This recipe takes the classic lemon loaf and elevates it with a luscious sweet cream cheese swirl, adding a delightful cheesecake-like texture to every slice.
Whether you enjoy it warm with a cup of coffee or as a show-stopping addition to your next gathering, this homemade lemon cream cheese bread will quickly become a household favorite. Let’s dive into how to make this irresistible treat!
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔️ Bright & Refreshing Flavor – Fresh lemon zest and juice bring a vibrant citrusy punch.
✔️ Rich & Creamy Swirl – A sweet cream cheese layer gives a deliciously smooth texture.
✔️ Perfectly Moist & Tender – The addition of sour cream and oil ensures every slice is incredibly soft.
✔️ Easy to Make – No special techniques required, just simple ingredients and a few mixing steps.
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Ingredients & Their Roles
For the Lemon Bread:
1 cup sugar – Adds sweetness and enhances the natural tartness of the lemon.
3 eggs – Provide structure and richness, making the bread light yet moist.
8 oz sour cream – The key to keeping the loaf incredibly tender while adding a slight tang.
½ cup canola oil – Keeps the bread moist without making it greasy.
Zest of 2 lemons – Packs in bold citrus aroma and flavor.
Juice of 1 lemon – Enhances the fresh lemon taste while balancing the sweetness.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds warmth and depth of flavor.
1 ½ cups flour – The base that gives the bread its structure.
2 ½ teaspoons baking powder – Ensures a light, airy texture by helping the bread rise.
1 teaspoon salt – Enhances flavors and balances sweetness.
For the Cream Cheese Swirl:
1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened – Creates a rich, creamy swirl for an indulgent texture.
⅓ cup powdered sugar – Adds sweetness and helps the cream cheese mix smoothly.
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Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Oven & Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a standard loaf pan with butter or nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, eggs, sour cream, oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, and salt. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix, as this can make the bread dense.
Step 4: Make the Cream Cheese Swirl
In a small bowl, beat softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Assemble the Loaf
1. Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
2. Spoon half of the cream cheese mixture on top. Use a knife to gently swirl it into the batter.
3. Add the remaining batter, followed by the rest of the cream cheese mixture. Swirl again to create a beautiful marbled effect.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 65-70 minutes, covering with foil for the last 20-30 minutes to prevent excessive browning. The bread is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean (aside from the cream cheese).
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