There’s something magical about the smell of blueberry bread baking in the oven. It reminds me of summer mornings spent at my grandma’s house, where warm, fruity loaves were a constant fixture on the kitchen counter. This Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread recipe is my ode to those cherished memories, and I can’t wait to share it with you!
From start to finish, you’re looking at about an hour of prep and bake time for a treat that’s absolutely worth it. Get ready for a delicious adventure with this delightful Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread!
Table of Contents
Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 350°F and grease two 9×5-inch loaf pans. Set aside.
- Toss blueberries with 2 tablespoons of flour. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter, cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla with an electric mixer until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- In a separate bowl, stir together the remaining 2 cups flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually mix into the wet ingredients until thoroughly incorporated.
- Gently fold in blueberries and pour batter into prepared loaf pans. Bake until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, 45-55 minutes.
- Let cool on wire rack 10 minutes before running a knife along the edges and inverting out onto wire rack to cool completely.
- Slice, serve, and enjoy!
Notes
Don’t Over-Mix: Over-mixing develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tough bread. Mix until just combined.
Swirl the Cream Cheese: For a marbled effect, reserve a bit of the cream cheese mixture, swirl it into the batter, and then bake.
Add a Streusel Topping: For extra sweetness and crunch, sprinkle a streusel topping over the batter before baking.
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Why You’ll Love This Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread
This isn’t just any blueberry bread; it’s special. Here’s why:
- Incredibly Moist Texture: The cream cheese adds a richness that keeps the bread tender and soft for days.
- Perfect Balance: The sweetness of the blueberries and sugar is perfectly balanced by the tanginess of the cream cheese, creating a flavor explosion.
- Bursting with Blueberries: Every slice is packed with juicy blueberries, ensuring each bite is full of fruity goodness.
- Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward and simple, even for beginner bakers.
Ingredients for the Best Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread
Here’s what you’ll need to create this masterpiece:
- 2 cups plus 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour, divided
- 2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 eggs
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Flour: All-purpose flour provides the structure for the bread. The extra 2 tablespoons are used to coat the blueberries, preventing them from sinking to the bottom.
Blueberries: Fresh or frozen blueberries work equally well. Make sure to toss them with flour to prevent them from sinking!
Unsalted Butter: I prefer unsalted butter because it allows me to control the amount of salt in the recipe. Salted butter can vary in salt content, which can affect the final flavor. Make sure your butter is softened for easy creaming.
Cream Cheese: This is the secret ingredient that makes the bread incredibly moist and adds a delicious tang. Ensure it’s softened to avoid lumps in the batter.
Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps to create a tender crumb.
Vanilla Extract: Enhances the other flavors in the bread, adding a touch of warmth. Use high-quality vanilla for the best results.
Eggs: Provide structure, richness, and moisture.
Baking Powder: Leavening agent that helps the bread rise.
Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the other flavors.
Here are some substitution suggestions:
| Ingredient | Substitution | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cream Cheese | Greek Yogurt | Adds tanginess and moisture but may result in a slightly less rich texture. |
Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread
Follow these steps for a foolproof loaf every time:
- Preheat oven to 350°F and grease two 9×5-inch loaf pans. Set aside. This ensures the oven is evenly heated, and the pans are ready to receive the batter.
- Toss blueberries with the 2 tablespoons of flour. Set aside. This helps the blueberries stay suspended in the batter and prevents them from sinking to the bottom.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter, cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla with an electric mixer until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Creaming the butter, cream cheese, and sugar together creates a light and airy base. Adding the eggs one at a time ensures they are fully incorporated. You can find more details on the importance of proper creaming techniques in baking here.
- In a separate bowl, stir together the remaining 2 cups flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually mix into the wet ingredients until thoroughly incorporated. This prevents over-mixing, which can lead to a tough bread.
- Gently fold in blueberries and pour batter into prepared loaf pans. Bake until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, 45-55 minutes. Be gentle when folding in the blueberries to avoid crushing them. A clean toothpick indicates the bread is fully baked.
- Let cool on wire rack 10 minutes before running a knife along the edges and inverting out onto wire rack to cool completely. Cooling slightly in the pan helps the bread retain its shape.
- Slice, serve, and enjoy! The best part!
Essential Equipment
Here’s what you’ll need to bake this bread:
- Two 9×5-inch Loaf Pans: These are the ideal size for this recipe. If you only have one, you can bake the loaves separately.
- Electric Mixer (Stand or Handheld): Makes creaming the butter, cream cheese, and sugar much easier. A whisk can be used, but it requires more effort.
- Mixing Bowls: For combining wet and dry ingredients separately.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are essential for baking success.
- Wire Rack: For cooling the bread evenly.
Tips for the ULTIMATE Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread
Here are a few of my personal tips for taking this bread to the next level:
- Use High-Quality Vanilla Extract: The better the vanilla, the richer the flavor.
- Don’t Over-Mix: Over-mixing develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tough bread. Mix until just combined.
- Swirl the Cream Cheese: For a marbled effect, reserve a bit of the cream cheese mixture, swirl it into the batter, and then bake.
- Add a Streusel Topping: For extra sweetness and crunch, sprinkle a streusel topping over the batter before baking.
Variations to Try
Want to mix things up? Here are a few delicious variations:
| Variation | Ingredient Addition | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Lemon Blueberry | 2 tablespoons lemon zest | Adds a bright, citrusy flavor that complements the blueberries perfectly. |
| Nutty Blueberry | 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans | Adds a crunchy texture and nutty flavor. |
How to Store Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread
To keep your bread fresh, follow these tips:
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Freezer: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil, and freeze for up to 2 months.
How to Freeze, Thaw, and Reheat Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread
For long-term storage, freezing is your best bet. Wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap, pressing out any air, then wrap in foil for extra protection against freezer burn.
To thaw, transfer the frozen bread to the refrigerator overnight or let it sit at room temperature for a few hours. To reheat, wrap a slice in foil and warm in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes, or microwave for a quick warm-up.
Troubleshooting: Common Problems and Solutions
- Why is my bread dry? Over-baking or using too much flour can cause dryness. Make sure to measure your flour accurately and check the bread for doneness a few minutes early.
- Why did my blueberries sink? This usually happens when the blueberries are too wet or the batter is too thin. Toss the blueberries with flour before adding them to the batter, and don’t over-mix the batter.
- Why did my bread sink in the middle? This can be caused by under-baking or using too much liquid. Make sure the bread is fully baked by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, it’s done.
Can I Make Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread as Muffins?
Absolutely! To make muffins, simply fill muffin cups about 2/3 full and bake at 375°F for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
FAQs about Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread
What is the best way to measure flour for this recipe?
I recommend using the “spoon and level” method. Spoon the flour into your measuring cup, then level off the top with a knife. This prevents packing the flour, which can lead to dry bread. Weighing your flour (250g per 2 cups) is even more accurate.
Can I use frozen blueberries without thawing them first? If so, how does this change the process?
Yes, you can use frozen blueberries without thawing them. Just toss them with the flour as directed. They may slightly increase the baking time, so keep an eye on the bread and test for doneness with a toothpick.
How do I prevent the cream cheese from clumping in the batter?
Make sure your cream cheese is fully softened before you start. Cut it into small pieces and let it sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes.
What is the best way to get a golden brown crust on the bread?
Brushing the top of the bread with melted butter or a simple sugar syrup during the last few minutes of baking can help achieve a golden brown crust.
Can I add a glaze to the bread? What type of glaze works best?
Absolutely! A simple powdered sugar glaze made with milk or lemon juice works beautifully. Whisk together powdered sugar with a small amount of liquid until you reach your desired consistency, then drizzle over the cooled bread.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free or dairy-free? What substitutions are needed?
Yes, you can! Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend and dairy-free cream cheese and butter substitutes. Keep in mind that the texture and flavor may vary slightly.
How to adjust the sweetness of the bread.
If you prefer a less sweet bread, reduce the sugar by 1/4 cup. For a sweeter bread, add an additional 2 tablespoons of sugar or drizzle with honey after baking.
Conclusion
I truly hope you enjoy this Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread as much as I do. It’s a simple recipe, but the results are extraordinary. Now, it’s your turn! Give this recipe a try, and don’t forget to leave a comment below to let me know how it turned out. Did you add any fun variations? Do you have any questions? I’d love to hear from you! And if you loved this recipe, please give it a rating! Happy baking!
