Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread is a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of blueberries with the rich creaminess of cream cheese. This bread is perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert. The soft texture and burst of flavors make it irresistible. In this article, we’ll explore why you should make this delicious recipe, how to prepare it step-by-step, and some pro tips for success.
Why Make This Recipe
Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread stands out for several reasons. First, it features fresh blueberries, which are not only delicious but also packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. The cream cheese adds a unique tanginess that pairs wonderfully with the natural sweetness of the blueberries. Additionally, this bread is easy to make and requires basic ingredients you probably already have on hand.
Furthermore, it’s incredibly versatile. You can enjoy it plain, with a dollop of butter, or even toasted. It’s also perfect for sharing with friends and family during gatherings or as a thoughtful homemade gift.
Now, let’s dive into how to make this scrumptious Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread!
How to Make Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread
Follow these simple steps to create your own Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread that will brighten up your day.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup butter, softened
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup milk
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened cream cheese, butter, and sugar until smooth.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add the vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk until fully combined.
- Gently fold in the fresh blueberries.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Pro Tips for Success Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread
- Make sure your cream cheese and butter are at room temperature for easy mixing.
- Gently fold the blueberries in to prevent them from breaking apart and turning your batter purple.
- Test for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the bread. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs attached, your bread is done.
- For an extra touch, sprinkle some coarse sugar on top before baking for a delightful crunch.
- Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing to maintain its moisture and flavor.
Flavor Variations Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread
- Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to brighten the flavor and complement the blueberries.
- Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier twist.
- Incorporate chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans for an interesting texture and added nutrients.
- Try using frozen blueberries if fresh ones aren’t available. Just toss them in a little flour before adding them to the batter to prevent them from sinking.
- Enhance the creaminess by mixing in a swirl of chocolate or peanut butter with the batter before adding the blueberries.
Serving Suggestions Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread
Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread is versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Consider serving it:
- Fresh out of the oven with a pat of butter.
- Sliced and toasted with a smear of cream cheese or flavored butter.
- As a base for a scrumptious breakfast sandwich with scrambled eggs and spinach.
- Paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a sweet dessert.
- With a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon pick-me-up.
Storage and Freezing Instructions Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread
To store your Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread, first allow it to cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the bread. Wrap it tightly and place it in an airtight container. It will last for up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bring it to room temperature before serving.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|————-|———-|
| Calories | 210 |
| Protein | 4g |
| Carbohydrates| 30g |
| Fat | 9g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 180mg |
FAQ About Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread
Can I use frozen blueberries?
Yes, you can use frozen blueberries in this recipe. Just be sure to toss them in a little bit of flour before adding them to the batter. This prevents them from sinking to the bottom of the loaf while baking.
How can I tell if my bread is done baking?
You can check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, the bread is ready. If there’s wet batter on the toothpick, bake it for a few more minutes and check again.
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
If you’re looking for a dairy-free alternative, consider using a vegan cream cheese or silken tofu blended until smooth. For a lighter option, plain yogurt can also work, but it may change the flavor slightly.
How do I prevent my bread from getting too dry?
To keep your Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread moist, be careful not to overmix the batter once you add the dry ingredients. Also, measuring your flour correctly is crucial; too much flour can lead to a dry loaf. Lastly, avoid overbaking by keeping a close eye on the time in the oven.
Can I add other fruits to this recipe?
Absolutely! While blueberries are the star of this recipe, you can substitute or add other fruits like raspberries, strawberries, or chopped apples. Just keep in mind that the moisture content may vary, so adjustments may be needed.
Is this recipe suitable for breakfast?
Yes! Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread makes for a delicious breakfast. It’s slightly sweet and filling, perfect for pairing with coffee or tea as you start your day.
H2: Final Thoughts
Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread is a delightful recipe that is sure to impress family and friends. Its blend of sweet blueberries and creamy texture makes it an excellent choice for various occasions. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or toasted for a cozy breakfast, this banana bread will quickly become a favorite. Follow the simple recipe and tips, and you’ll have a delicious treat to enjoy and share. Happy baking!
Print
Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread
- Total Time: 75 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful treat combining the sweetness of blueberries with the rich creaminess of cream cheese, perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert.
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup butter, softened
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup milk
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened cream cheese, butter, and sugar until smooth.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add the vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk until fully combined.
- Gently fold in the fresh blueberries.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
Make sure your cream cheese and butter are at room temperature for easy mixing. Gently fold the blueberries in to prevent them from breaking apart.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
