If you’re looking for a delightful treat that perfectly balances bright citrus flavor with rich creaminess, the Moist & Tangy Lemon Cream Cheese Bread Recipe is your new go-to! This luscious bread delivers a tender crumb thanks to the cream cheese, while the fresh lemon zest and juice add an irresistible zing. Whether it’s for a cozy afternoon snack or a stunning brunch centerpiece, this bread brings sunshine to any table and is sure to become a beloved favorite you’ll bake again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What’s amazing about this recipe is how simple yet purposeful each ingredient is. They work in harmony to create a bread that’s both tender and flavorful, with the ideal moist texture and tangy lemon punch.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and a silky crumb to the bread.
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened: Key to the bread’s moist texture and subtle tang.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens without overpowering the lemon flavor.
- 2 large eggs: Provide structure and help bind ingredients together.
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest: Bursts of bright citrus oils for fresh aroma and taste.
- ¼ cup fresh lemon juice: Intensifies the lemony tang and keeps the bread lively.
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour: The base that holds everything together.
- ½ teaspoon baking powder: A gentle leavening agent for lift.
- ½ teaspoon baking soda: Works alongside the baking powder to create a perfect rise.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a warm, mellow undertone to complement the lemon.
- ½ cup powdered sugar: For the glossy, sweet glaze that crowns the bread.
- 1–2 tablespoons lemon juice: Mixed into the glaze to tie the flavors together beautifully.
How to Make Moist & Tangy Lemon Cream Cheese Bread Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan thoroughly, then dust it with flour or line it with parchment paper to ensure your bread comes out clean and perfect.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Cream Cheese
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese using an electric mixer until the mixture is dreamy smooth and fluffy. This step is essential for a velvety texture that melts in your mouth.
Step 3: Add Sugar
Next, add the granulated sugar and beat everything together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This aerates the batter, helping the bread stay tender and soft.
Step 4: Incorporate Eggs and Lemon Flavors
Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then, stir in the fresh lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. These ingredients bring that signature tang and aromatic complexity to the bread.
Step 5: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Combining them first ensures even distribution and a consistent rise.
Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet batter, mixing just until combined. Overmixing here can affect the bread’s tenderness, so a gentle hand is best.
Step 7: Pour Batter and Smooth Top
Transfer the batter to your prepared loaf pan and gently smooth the surface with a spatula to promote even baking.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean. This bread fills your kitchen with an inviting lemony fragrance that’s hard to resist.
Step 9: Cool the Bread
Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes to set its shape, then turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely. This step is crucial before applying the glaze.
Step 10: Add the Glaze
Whisk the powdered sugar with 1 to 2 tablespoons of lemon juice until smooth, then drizzle it generously over the cooled bread. This glossy glaze adds the perfect sweet and tangy finishing touch.
How to Serve Moist & Tangy Lemon Cream Cheese Bread Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh lemon slices, a sprinkle of extra lemon zest, or even a few edible flowers can elevate the presentation and amplify the zesty aroma of this bread. These simple garnishes make the loaf feel extra-special and inviting.
Side Dishes
This lemon cream cheese bread pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of tea or a creamy latte. For brunch, serve it alongside fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream to create a balanced and refreshing spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice the bread thickly and lightly toast it, then spread with mascarpone or ricotta cheese for a creamy contrast. Alternatively, cut it into cubes and serve with a lemon-infused yogurt dip for a fun finger-food idea.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain its moist texture. Keeping it sealed prevents it from drying out.
Freezing
If you want to keep the bread longer, slice it and freeze the individual pieces in a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can thaw just what you need, keeping the rest fresh and ready for another day.
Reheating
Warm slices gently in a toaster oven or microwave for a few seconds to revive that fresh-baked softness and bring those lemony notes to life again. The glaze will soften and meld beautifully with the warm crumb.
FAQs
Can I use low-fat cream cheese for this recipe?
While low-fat cream cheese might work, it could affect the richness and moisture of the bread. For best results, stick with full-fat cream cheese to get that perfect tender texture.
How important is fresh lemon zest and juice?
Very important! Fresh lemon zest and juice provide vibrant citrus oils and bright flavor that bottled juice or dried zest can’t replicate, making this bread truly tangy and fresh.
Can I make this bread gluten-free?
You can try substituting with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, but results may vary depending on the brand. You might need to add a binding agent like xanthan gum if your blend doesn’t contain it.
What if I don’t have an electric mixer?
You can whisk the ingredients by hand, but it will take longer to achieve that fluffy texture. Be patient and ensure the butter and cream cheese are very soft before starting to make mixing easier.
Can I double this recipe for a larger batch?
Yes! Just double all the ingredients and use a larger pan or bake in two pans. Baking times may vary slightly, so keep an eye on the bread starting around 45 minutes.
Final Thoughts
This Moist & Tangy Lemon Cream Cheese Bread Recipe is a shining example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special and unforgettable. Once you try it, you’ll see why it’s perfect to bake again and again. So pull out your mixing bowls and get ready to fill your kitchen with sunshine and love!
