Lemon Cream Cheese Bread 🍋: A Luscious Loaf of Bright Citrus and Velvety Sweetness

Lemon Cream Cheese Bread is one of those bakery-style treats that feels indulgent yet comforting — perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon tea break. With a moist, tangy crumb and a hidden ribbon of sweetened cream cheese running through the center, this loaf delivers the perfect balance of citrusy brightness and creamy richness in every bite.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying this for the first time, this detailed guide will walk you through exactly how to make Lemon Cream Cheese Bread step by step, with helpful tips and variations to make it your own.

🌟 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bright, Fresh Lemon Flavor
• Rich and Creamy Center from sweetened cream cheese
• Moist, Tender Texture with a cake-like crumb
• Easy to Make with common ingredients
• Perfect for Gifting or Entertaining

🍋 Ingredients

For the Lemon Bread Batter:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
• 1/4 cup whole milk
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
• 1 tbsp lemon zest
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Cream Cheese Filling:

• 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg yolk
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Optional Glaze (for finishing):

• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1–2 tbsp lemon juice

🍰 Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowls
• Hand or stand mixer
• Whisk
• Loaf pan (9×5-inch)
• Parchment paper (optional but recommended)
• Cooling rack

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Method

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Grease your loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Filling

In a medium bowl, beat together:

• 8 oz cream cheese
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1 egg yolk
• 1/2 tsp vanilla

Mix until smooth and creamy. Set aside — this will be layered into the center of your bread.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together:

• 1 1/2 cups flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp salt

Set aside.

Step 4: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat:

• 1/2 cup softened butter
• 1 cup granulated sugar

Mix until light and fluffy — about 2–3 minutes.

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