Name: Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 8 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup fresh blueberries; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup milk; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup powdered sugar

Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread is a delightful fusion of tangy cream cheese and juicy blueberries enveloped in a moist, sweet loaf. This beloved recipe captures the essence of comfort food and offers a flavorful twist on traditional quick breads.

Originating from the trend of cream cheese-filled baked goods in American home baking, this bread gained popularity in family kitchens for its rich taste and versatility.

Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread stands out due to its creamy layer that perfectly complements the tartness of fresh or frozen blueberries, making it an ideal treat for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert.

It boasts a luscious texture and balanced sweetness, with every bite delivering a burst of blueberry flavor alongside the subtle tanginess of cream cheese. Whether served warm from the oven or enjoyed at room temperature, this bread is sure to please both kids and adults.

Incorporating keywords such as homemade blueberry bread, creamy quick bread, and easy blueberry recipes, the Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread recipe is popular for those who appreciate classic ingredients with a creative twist.

Over time, it has become a staple in many households, especially during the blueberry harvest season, offering a comforting slice of nostalgia and homemade goodness. If you’re searching for a fresh, flavorful, and easy-to-make baked good, this Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread is the perfect choice.

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 cup buttermilk
1 1/4 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
6 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup granulated sugar (for cream cheese layer)

1 large egg (for cream cheese layer)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for cream cheese layer)
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (for cream cheese layer)
1 tablespoon lemon zest (optional, for added flavor)

2 tablespoons coarse sugar (optional, for topping)

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy using a hand mixer or stand mixer.
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then incorporate the vanilla extract.

Mix in the buttermilk until just combined.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
Gently fold in the blueberries, being careful not to crush them.
In a separate bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, 1/4 cup sugar, egg, vanilla extract, flour, and lemon zest (if using), mixing until smooth and creamy.

Pour half of the bread batter into the prepared loaf pan, using a spatula to smooth out the surface.
Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly on top of the first layer of batter.
Top with the remaining bread batter, spreading it gently over the cream cheese layer.
Sprinkle coarse sugar on top for an optional crunchy topping.

Bake for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Let the bread cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving.

Nutritional Information

Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread is a decadent treat offering a satisfying balance of flavor and nutrition, especially when compared to typical bakery options. One slice of this bread (assuming the loaf is cut into 10 slices) provides approximately 230-250 calories, primarily from carbohydrates and healthy fats.

Each serving contains about 5 grams of protein, thanks to the inclusion of eggs and cream cheese. The bread offers 10-12 grams of fat per serving, with saturated fats primarily from butter and cream cheese.

Carbohydrates make up the bulk of the loaf’s caloric content, contributing about 32-36 grams per serving with 15-18 grams of sugar, mostly from natural blueberries and moderate amounts of added sugar. The blueberries contribute valuable antioxidants, including vitamin C and anthocyanins, promoting cellular health.

This bread also contains small amounts of calcium and iron. While Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread is indulgent, it can fit into a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation.

For those seeking lower fat or lower sugar options, consider substituting some sugar with a natural sugar alternative or using reduced-fat cream cheese. Remember, portion control is key to enjoying this bread as part of a healthy lifestyle.

Wine and Beverage Pairings

Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread pairs beautifully with a wide range of beverages. For a morning treat, enjoy your slice with freshly brewed coffee or a creamy latte, which complements the richness of the cream cheese. Herbal teas, especially chamomile or lemon ginger, bring out the citrus notes in the bread.

If serving as a dessert, a glass of chilled Moscato d’Asti or Riesling, with their fruity undertones, enhances the blueberry flavor. For non-alcoholic options, a cool glass of iced blueberry tea or lemonade harmonizes well with the bread’s sweet profile. Milk—whether dairy or plant-based—remains a classic companion, especially for children.

Try pairing with a vanilla chai latte or cold brew coffee for a more contemporary twist.

Cooking Tips and Variations

Achieving the perfect Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread requires a few helpful tips and some creative flair. To ensure a moist, tender loaf, avoid overmixing your batter; gently combine wet and dry ingredients just until incorporated. Always use room-temperature butter, eggs, and cream cheese for easy blending and a smoother texture.

For maximum blueberry flavor, use fresh, ripe blueberries, but frozen ones work well too—toss them lightly in flour before adding to prevent them from sinking. Incorporating a tablespoon of lemon zest into the batter enhances the freshness and pairs beautifully with the blueberries.

To create variations, swap half the blueberries for raspberries, blackberries, or diced strawberries. Add a handful of chopped pecans or walnuts to the batter for a delightful crunch. For those who love a little extra sweetness, sprinkle the top with coarse sugar or a light streusel before baking.

Gluten-free flour blends can replace all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version. Leftover Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread makes excellent French toast or bread pudding, turning breakfast into an indulgent treat. For a healthier variation, swap half the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour and reduce sugar by a quarter.

With these tips and variations, you can personalize your loaf to suit any taste or dietary need.

Serving Suggestions

The presentation of Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread can transform it from a humble loaf into an elegant centerpiece. For breakfast or brunch, slice the bread thickly and serve slightly warm with a pat of butter or a spoonful of blueberry preserves.

This enhances the bread’s fruity notes and creamy center, making it a hearty morning option. For dessert, consider drizzling each slice with a simple lemon glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice, adding an extra tang and glossy finish.

Arrange slices on a platter garnished with fresh blueberries and a dusting of powdered sugar for a sophisticated look suitable for tea parties or baby showers. Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread also makes delightful snacks—tuck slices into lunchboxes for a midday treat or serve with afternoon tea.

When entertaining, pair the bread with a fruit salad, whipped cream, or even vanilla bean ice cream for a more indulgent dessert. For picnics and outdoor gatherings, wrap individual slices in parchment paper for easy, mess-free serving.

The bread can be made ahead and stored at room temperature for up to two days, or refrigerated for longer freshness, making it convenient for busy schedules and spontaneous guests alike.

Health Benefits

Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread, while an indulgent treat, offers some notable health benefits mainly due to its blueberry content. Blueberries are revered for their abundance of antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins and vitamin C, which support immune health, combat oxidative stress, and help reduce inflammation in the body.

They are also a good source of dietary fiber, aiding digestion and contributing to satiety. Cream cheese, although rich in fat, supplies calcium for bone strength and small amounts of vitamin A, which promotes healthy skin and vision.

Using buttermilk lends a slight calcium boost while being lower in fat than cream. To make this bread healthier, consider reducing added sugar, opting for reduced-fat cream cheese, and replacing part of the flour with whole wheat flour for extra fiber and micronutrients.

When consumed in moderation alongside a balanced diet, Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread can be an enjoyable way to incorporate fruit and dairy into your meals while satisfying sweet cravings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen blueberries in Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread?

Yes, you can use frozen blueberries. Do not thaw them before use, and toss them in a tablespoon of flour before folding them into the batter to prevent excess bleeding and sinking.

How do I store leftover Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread?

Store the bread, covered or in an airtight container, at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 5 days or freeze slices for up to 2 months.

Can I make Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread gluten-free?

Absolutely. Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking mix in a 1:1 ratio. Check that all other ingredients, especially baking powder, are certified gluten-free.

What can I substitute for buttermilk?

You can substitute buttermilk with an equal amount of plain yogurt, sour cream, or milk mixed with one teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar.

Why did my cream cheese layer sink to the bottom?

If the cream cheese layer is too runny or the batter is too thin, the layer may sink. Ensure the cream cheese mixture is thick, and the bread batter is not overly loose.

Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread is more than just a loaf—it’s a celebration of classic flavors and homestyle comfort. With its blend of sweet, tart, and creamy layers, this quick bread is as impressive as it is easy to make. Perfect for breakfast spreads, brunch tables, or sweet snacks, this recipe proves endlessly adaptable for any occasion or dietary preference. By following the detailed steps, expert tips, and healthful suggestions provided, you’ll achieve bakery-worthy results in your own kitchen. Let this Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread become a staple in your recipe rotation, offering delightful moments with every slice.

Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread