Name: Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 1 cup butter (softened/unsalted); 8 oz cream cheese (softened); ¾ cup sugar; 2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 4 eggs; 2 cups flour (all purpose); 1 ½ teaspoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon salt; 2 cups blueberries (fresh, tossed in 1 tablespoon flour)

Introduction to Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread

Homemade bread brings a warmth and personal touch that fast food simply can’t replicate. Imagine waking up to the delightful aroma of freshly baked blueberry cream cheese bread wafting through your kitchen. It’s not just a treat for your taste buds; it's a feast for the senses. When you make your own bread, you control the ingredients, ensuring freshness and quality. Plus, there's something undeniably satisfying about creating something from scratch—it's both an act of self-care and a creative outlet.

Why settle for pre-packaged options with nebulous ingredients when you can whip up a loaf filled with juicy, fresh blueberries and creamy goodness? A quick glance at this blueberry cream cheese bread recipe reveals how simple it is to blend basic ingredients into something truly special. According to the Whole Grains Council, homemade bread often contains fewer additives and preservatives, making it a healthier choice.

Each slice is soft and moist, perfect for breakfast, a snack, or dessert. Plus, you can easily customize it! Thinking of adding nuts or a spice twist? Go for it. Embracing the world of baking isn't just about feeding your belly; it’s about nourishing your soul. So, why not get started? Your kitchen awaits!

Ingredients for Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread

Essential ingredients for a delicious loaf

When it comes to making blueberry cream cheese bread, you'll want to gather some key ingredients that work together to create that delightful blend of flavors. Here’s what you need:

1 cup butter (softened and unsalted): This is crucial for that rich, moist texture.
8 oz cream cheese (softened): Adds a creamy richness you'll love.
¾ cup sugar: This balances the tartness of the blueberries perfectly.
2 teaspoon vanilla extract: For that lovely warm aroma.
4 eggs: Essential for binding and adding moisture.
2 cups all-purpose flour: The base for your dough.
1 ½ teaspoon baking powder: Helps your bread rise beautifully.
½ teaspoon salt: Enhances flavor.
2 cups fresh blueberries (tossed in 1 tablespoon flour): These juicy gems are the star of the show!

For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or lemon zest for a refreshing twist.

Optional add-ins for enhanced flavor

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can elevate your blueberry cream cheese bread with some optional ingredients. How about adding:

Chopped nuts: Walnuts or pecans for some crunch.
Dried fruits: A handful of raisins or cranberries can add a nice chew.
Chocolate chips: For a dreamy, indulgent bite.

These little add-ins can transform your loaf and make it even more delightful! Always remember, cooking is about enjoyment, so feel free to experiment!

Preparing Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread

Creating the perfect blueberry cream cheese bread is a rewarding experience, especially with its delightful blend of creamy richness and fruity freshness. Let’s walk through the steps, ensuring you have a seamless baking adventure!

Gather Your Equipment

Before diving into the mixing bowl, let's make sure you have everything you need on hand:

Mixing bowls (a large one and a medium one)
A muffin tray (if you want mini portions)
Muffin liners (great for quick serving)
Mini loaf pans or a large loaf pan
An electric hand mixer

Having your tools ready will make the process smoother, allowing you to focus more on baking and less on searching!

Preheat Your Oven and Prepare the Pans

Start by preheating your oven to a cozy 350°F (175°C). This is a crucial step, as a well-preheated oven helps achieve that lovely, even bake. While your oven heats up, take a moment to grease your loaf pans (9x5 works perfectly). You can use butter or a spray, ensuring an easy release once your blueberry cream cheese bread is baked.

Cream Together the Butter and Cream Cheese

In your large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of softened unsalted butter with 8 ounces of softened cream cheese. Using your electric hand mixer, beat them together until the mixture is fluffy and well combined. This step is vital! The right creaminess enhances the texture of the bread, giving it that desired moistness.

Add Sugar, Vanilla, and Eggs

Once your butter and cream cheese are perfectly creamed, it’s time to sweeten the deal. Gradually add in ¾ cup of sugar, followed by 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, and 4 large eggs. Mix until everything is seamlessly blended. The vanilla will not only add sweetness but also a delightful aroma that fills your kitchen!

Incorporate Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 ½ teaspoons of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Gradually add this flour mixture to your wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until combined. It’s okay if the batter is thick; this consistency is just what we’re after for that perfect bread!

Fold in Those Juicy Blueberries

Now comes the fun part! Gently fold in 2 cups of fresh blueberries that have been tossed in 1 tablespoon of flour. This coating helps the blueberries stay suspended in the batter and prevents them from sinking to the bottom while baking. Each bite will be bursting with blueberry goodness!

Pour Batter into Pans and Bake

Finally, pour your thick batter into the prepared pans, distributing it evenly. Place them in your preheated oven and bake for about 50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. As the bread bakes, you’ll begin to smell an irresistible aroma – it’s a lovely prelude to the deliciousness about to come!

With these steps, you’re well on your way to enjoying homemade blueberry cream cheese bread, perfect for breakfast or as a delightful snack anytime. Happy baking!

Variations on Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread

Experimenting with blueberry cream cheese bread can lead to delightful new flavors. Here are two tasty variations to inspire your baking adventures:

Lemon Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread

Add a zesty twist by incorporating fresh lemon juice and zest into the batter. This brightens the flavor profile, creating a refreshing blend with the sweet blueberries. Just 2 tablespoons of lemon juice and the zest of one lemon can make a world of difference.

Nut-Studded Blueberry Bread

For a crunchier texture, mix in chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans. Adding about ½ cup of nuts will provide a hearty contrast to the creamy texture of the bread, enhancing its appeal while adding some healthy fats.

Feel free to swap in your favorite nuts or citrus variety for endless customization! Happy baking!

Baking Notes for Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread

Tips for Achieving the Perfect Texture

To ensure your blueberry cream cheese bread has that delightful, moist texture, be careful not to overmix the batter. Once you combine the wet and dry ingredients, gently fold in the blueberries – this prevents them from breaking apart and releasing excess liquid. Also, make sure your ingredients are at room temperature, as this helps with even mixing and better rise.

Storage Tips for Your Homemade Bread

To keep your blueberry cream cheese bread fresh, let it cool completely before storing. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil, or place it in an airtight container. It can be stored at room temperature for about three days or refrigerated for up to a week. For longer storage, consider slicing and freezing individual pieces, ensuring they are protected from freezer burn. Simply thaw them at room temperature or pop them in the toaster for a quick treat!

Serving suggestions for Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread

Best enjoyed with coffee or tea

The blueberry cream cheese bread shines brightest alongside your favorite morning beverage. Pair a warm slice with a freshly brewed cup of coffee or a soothing herbal tea. The creamy texture and fruity flavor complement the rich notes of coffee or the lightness of tea beautifully. Consider trying a bold espresso for a delightful contrast or a chamomile tea for a calming afternoon break.

Creative ways to serve it as a dessert

Looking to impress? Transform your blueberry cream cheese bread into an effortless dessert. Try serving it warm with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of lemon zest for a bright twist. Alternatively, top slices with vanilla ice cream and drizzle with a homemade blueberry sauce for a decadent finish. You can also use it to create a delightful bread pudding—just layer the bread with custard and bake until golden. Your guests will be talking about it long after the meal!

For more delightful serving ideas, check out Epicurious which features fantastic dessert transformations.

Time Details for Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread

Preparation Time
The prep for this delicious blueberry cream cheese bread takes about 10 minutes. This quick approach makes it easy to whip up the batter before you tackle your other morning tasks!

Baking Time
After your batter is ready, pop it in the oven for approximately 50 minutes. The enticing aroma of baked blueberries will fill your kitchen as it cooks!

Total Time
In just about an hour, you’ll be able to enjoy a slice (or two) of this scrumptious bread. Perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack, it’s a delightful treat any time of day!

Explore more helpful tips for baking here. What’s your favorite way to enjoy freshly baked bread? Perhaps spread some cream cheese or butter on top?

Nutritional Information for Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread

Calories Per Slice

Enjoying a slice of blueberry cream cheese bread? You're looking at approximately 363 calories per slice. Not too bad for a delightful treat that doubles as breakfast or a snack!

Key Nutrients and Allergens

This bread is not just delicious but also packs some essential nutrients:

Carbohydrates: 33g - a good source of energy to fuel your day.
Protein: 6g - helps to keep you satisfied.
Fat: 24g, with Saturated Fat at 14g - balance is key, so enjoy in moderation.
Vitamin A: 819 IU - contributing to eye health, and overall immunity.

Allergens to be aware of include gluten (from flour), dairy (from cream cheese and butter), and eggs.

For a deeper dive into the nutritional benefits of blueberries, you might find this Healthline article informative. They highlight how blueberries are low in calories yet high in nutrients! If you find yourself considering healthy swaps, also take a peek at Nutritional yeast or whole wheat flour, which can paves the way for a fiber-rich version of this blueberry cream cheese bread.

FAQs about Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread

Can I use frozen blueberries?

Absolutely! While fresh blueberries offer a delightful burst of flavor, frozen blueberries can be a great alternative, especially if fresh ones aren’t available. Just remember to toss them in a bit of flour before folding them into your batter; this helps prevent them from sinking and creates that beautiful, marbled effect in your blueberry cream cheese bread. Additionally, you don’t need to thaw them beforehand; just add them straight to the mix!

How do I know when the bread is done?

To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s time to take it out of the oven. Keep in mind that every oven can vary, so start checking around the 45-minute mark to be safe. Perfectly baked blueberry cream cheese bread should have a golden-brown crust!

What can I substitute for cream cheese?

If you’re looking for alternatives, consider using Greek yogurt for a lighter option or mascarpone cheese for a rich creaminess. Sour cream can also work well for a tangy twist. Just remember that any substitute may slightly alter the flavor, but they will still yield a delicious loaf! If you’re interested in more baking substitutions, check out this guide for inspiration.

Conclusion on Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread

Embrace homemade with this delicious recipe

In closing, don’t hesitate to whip up this blueberry cream cheese bread. It's a scrumptious, moist treat bursting with fresh blueberries, perfect for breakfast or a delightful snack. Enjoy the satisfaction of baking at home while impressing friends and family with this simple yet heartwarming recipe. Happy baking!