Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bread

Name: Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bread
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1.5 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 0.5 teaspoon salt; 1 cup pumpkin puree; 0.5 cup vegetable oil; 1.5 cups sugar; 0.5 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Recipe By:

Natalia

Posted:

November 30, 2025

Updated:

November 30, 2025

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This Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bread is a delightful blend of moist pumpkin bread enriched with a creamy filling that makes it perfect for any fall occasion. Whether you’re celebrating Thanksgiving, hosting a cozy gathering, or simply indulging in a sweet treat, this recipe will not disappoint. The combination of warm spices and rich cream cheese creates an irresistible flavor that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make: With straightforward ingredients and simple steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all levels.
Delicious Flavor: The mix of pumpkin and cream cheese provides a comforting taste that embodies the essence of fall.
Versatile Treat: Enjoy it as breakfast, dessert, or a snack—it’s suitable for any time of day!
Perfect for Sharing: Makes enough for eight servings, ideal for potlucks or family gatherings.
Moist & Rich: Thanks to the pumpkin puree and cream cheese filling, every bite is wonderfully moist and rich.

Tools and Preparation

To make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools on hand is essential. Here are some important tools you will need to create this delicious Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bread.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Mixing bowls
Measuring cups
Whisk
Spatula
Loaf pan

Importance of Each Tool

Mixing bowls: These allow you to combine your dry and wet ingredients thoroughly.
Measuring cups: Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving the best texture and flavor.
Spatula: Perfect for scraping down the sides of your mixing bowl and transferring batter into the pan.

Ingredients

This flavorful Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bread combines moist, spicy pumpkin bread with rich cream cheese filling for a delicious fall treat.

For the Bread

1.5 cups all-purpose flour (sifted)
1 teaspoon baking soda
0.5 teaspoon salt
1 cup pumpkin puree (canned or fresh)
0.5 cup vegetable oil
1.5 cups sugar
0.5 teaspoon ground cinnamon

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bread

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your bread bakes evenly throughout.

Step 2: Prepare Your Loaf Pan

Grease your loaf pan with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the sifted flour, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, and sugar. Mix until smooth.

Step 5: Combine Both Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir until just combined; do not overmix.

Step 6: Bake

Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Add dollops of cream cheese filling if using (optional), then top with remaining batter. Bake in preheated oven for about 50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove from oven and let cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Slice and enjoy your delicious Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bread!

How to Serve Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bread

Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bread is a delightful treat that pairs wonderfully with various accompaniments. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, dessert, or a snack, these serving suggestions will elevate your experience.

With a Cup of Coffee

Enjoy your pumpkin bread alongside a hot cup of coffee for a cozy morning meal. The rich flavors complement each other perfectly.

Cream Cheese Frosting

Spread some extra cream cheese frosting on top for added sweetness and creaminess. This makes each slice even more indulgent.

Toasted with Butter

Lightly toast the bread and spread a pat of butter on it. The warmth enhances the spices and adds a rich flavor.

Topped with Nuts

Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans on top for added crunch. This gives the bread texture and a nutty flavor that balances well with the sweetness.

Served with Whipped Cream

For a dessert twist, serve slices with whipped cream. This adds a light and fluffy element to your pumpkin treat.

Accompanied by Fresh Fruit

Pair the bread with slices of apple or pear. The fresh fruit adds brightness and balances the richness of the pumpkin bread.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bread

Perfecting your Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bread can take your baking to the next level. Here are some helpful tips to ensure you achieve the best results.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh pumpkin puree, as this enhances flavor and moisture in your bread.
Don’t Overmix: Mix your batter just until combined to keep the texture light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to dense bread.
Check Doneness: Use a toothpick to test doneness in the center. It should come out clean or with a few crumbs, not wet batter.
Cool Completely: Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing. This helps improve its texture and makes cutting easier.
Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add nutmeg or ginger for an extra layer of flavor that complements the pumpkin beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bread

Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bread pairs well with various side dishes that enhance its flavors. Here are some tasty options to consider.

Chai Tea: The spices in chai tea echo those in pumpkin bread, making it an excellent pairing for a warm beverage experience.
Apple Cider: A glass of spiced apple cider provides sweetness and acidity, balancing out the richness of the bread.
Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruits for a refreshing contrast that complements pumpkin’s flavors well.
Cheese Platter: Add soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese on the side for savory contrast; they pair nicely with sweet baked goods.
Salad Greens: A light salad with vinaigrette can offer freshness and cut through the heaviness of the bread.
Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling chocolate sauce over slices creates an indulgent dessert option that chocolate lovers will adore.
Cranberry Sauce: A dollop of cranberry sauce brings tartness that complements the sweet notes in pumpkin bread beautifully.
Ice Cream Scoop: For dessert lovers, serve warm slices topped with vanilla ice cream; it’s an irresistible combination!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bread can be a delightful experience, but avoiding common mistakes is essential for the best results.

Incorrect Measurements: Always measure ingredients accurately. Too much flour or sugar can affect the bread’s texture and flavor.
Overmixing Batter: Mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to dense bread instead of the desired light and fluffy texture.
Skipping the Cream Cheese Filling: Don’t skip the cream cheese filling! It adds a rich flavor that complements the pumpkin perfectly.
Ignoring Oven Temperature: Preheat your oven properly. An incorrect temperature can result in uneven baking or burnt edges.
Not Letting Bread Cool: Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing. Slicing too soon can cause it to crumble.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store your Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bread in an airtight container.
It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bread

Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and then foil.
It can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing quality.

Reheating Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bread

Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the bread in foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate. Heat for 10-15 seconds until warm.
Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat. Cook each side for about 2-3 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh pumpkin puree for Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bread?

Yes, fresh pumpkin puree works great! Just ensure it’s well-drained to avoid excess moisture.

What if I don’t have cream cheese?

You can substitute with mascarpone or ricotta cheese, though it may slightly alter the flavor and texture of your Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bread.

How can I customize my Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bread?

Consider adding nuts, chocolate chips, or spices like nutmeg for extra flavor.

How do I know when my Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bread is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, your bread is ready!

Final Thoughts

This Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bread is not only delicious but also versatile. It makes for a perfect fall treat or holiday dessert. Feel free to customize it with your favorite add-ins and enjoy this moist, flavorful delight any time of year!