Lemon Cream Cheese Bread

Step 4: Add Eggs and Flavorings

Beat in the eggs one at a time, then mix in the vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice. The batter should smell fragrant and refreshing.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with buttermilk, beginning and ending with flour. Mix until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender.

Step 6: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling

In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese, sugar, egg, and vanilla until smooth and creamy. This filling will add a rich, tangy surprise inside the bread.

Step 7: Assemble the Bread

• Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
• Spoon the cream cheese filling evenly over the batter.
• Pour the remaining batter on top and gently swirl with a knife to create a marbled effect.

Step 8: Bake

Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Baking times may vary depending on your oven.

Step 9: Cool

Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents it from becoming soggy.

Step 10: Optional Lemon Glaze

For an extra burst of lemon flavor:

• Mix powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth.
• Drizzle over the cooled bread.
• Let the glaze set for 10 minutes before slicing.

Tips for the Perfect Lemon Cream Cheese Bread

1. Softened ingredients: Make sure butter and cream cheese are at room temperature for smooth mixing.
2. Zesting lemons: Only zest the yellow part of the lemon to avoid bitterness.
3. Swirling: Don’t over-swirl the cream cheese; delicate marbling gives a beautiful effect.
4. Storage: Keep the bread in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Final Thoughts

This Lemon Cream Cheese Bread is a perfect balance of tart, sweet, and creamy textures. It’s visually stunning, easy to slice, and melts in your mouth with each bite. Whether you’re making it for a special brunch or just a cozy afternoon treat, this bread will surely impress family and friends.

If you want, I can also create a simplified 1-page version with an infographic-style step guide for quick reference while baking. It would look visually like a recipe card. Do you want me to do that?