This Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread is a deliciously moist loaf that blends the tartness of blueberries with the creamy richness of a luscious cream cheese swirl. Perfect as a breakfast, brunch treat, or sweet snack, this bread is simple to make yet indulgent enough to serve to guests. Whether served warm with butter or chilled with tea, every bite is packed with juicy berries and creamy goodness.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
For the Bread:
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1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
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1 tsp baking powder
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½ tsp baking soda
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½ tsp salt
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½ cup unsalted butter, softened
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¾ cup granulated sugar
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2 large eggs
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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½ cup milk (or buttermilk)
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1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries (tossed in 1 tbsp flour to prevent sinking)
For the Cream Cheese Filling:
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8 oz cream cheese, softened
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¼ cup granulated sugar
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1 large egg
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1 tsp vanilla extract
Directions
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Preheat Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line with parchment paper.
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Mix Dry Ingredients: Whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a bowl.
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Cream Butter and Sugar: In a separate bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy (2–3 mins).
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Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla.
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Combine Wet and Dry: Alternate mixing in the dry ingredients and milk, beginning and ending with dry. Mix just until combined.
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Fold in Blueberries: Gently fold in floured blueberries.
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Prepare Cream Cheese Filling: Beat cream cheese, sugar, egg, and vanilla until smooth and creamy.
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Assemble: Pour half the batter into pan, spread cream cheese filling on top, and add the remaining batter.
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Bake: Bake for 55–65 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cover with foil if browning too fast.
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Cool and Serve: Cool in the pan for 10 mins, then move to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Nutrients (Estimated per slice, assuming 12 slices)
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Calories: ~250–280
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Carbohydrates: ~30–35g
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Protein: ~4–5g
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Fat: ~13–15g
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Saturated Fat: ~7g
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Sugar: ~16–18g
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Fiber: ~1g
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This bread isn’t just delicious—it’s also a joy to make and serve. What sets this recipe apart is its combination of texture and flavor. The bread base is moist, buttery, and lightly sweetened, while the cream cheese filling adds a rich, tangy contrast that cuts through the sweetness. The blueberries, whether fresh or frozen, bring brightness and a burst of juiciness that ties everything together. It’s easy enough for beginner bakers to pull off, yet elegant enough for gifting or entertaining.
The Perfect Pairing of Flavors
The marriage of blueberries and cream cheese is one of those culinary combinations that just works. The berries’ natural tartness balances the creamy richness of the cheese. When baked, the blueberries soften and slightly burst, infusing the bread with pockets of juicy flavor. Meanwhile, the cream cheese layer stays soft and luscious, almost like a cheesecake surprise in the middle of your loaf. Every bite offers a perfect contrast—light and fruity with just the right amount of indulgence.
Ideal for Any Occasion
One of the best things about Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread is its versatility. Hosting a brunch? Serve it sliced alongside fresh fruit and coffee. Need something sweet for a baby shower, potluck, or teacher appreciation event? This loaf travels well and always garners compliments. Looking for an easy make-ahead breakfast? A slice reheated in the microwave with a pat of butter makes mornings feel like a special occasion. It also freezes beautifully, so you can stash away a loaf for unexpected guests or late-night cravings.
Tips for Best Results
Although this is a straightforward recipe, a few tips will help you achieve the best texture and flavor every time:
Use room temperature ingredients. This ensures that the batter and filling mix smoothly and bake evenly.
Toss the blueberries in flour. This simple step helps prevent them from sinking to the bottom of the loaf while baking.
Don’t overmix the batter. Once the dry and wet ingredients are combined, stir gently and only until no streaks remain. Overmixing can result in a dense or tough bread.
Check for doneness carefully. Because of the cream cheese layer, a skewer may not come out perfectly clean—look for moist crumbs rather than wet batter.
Cool completely before slicing. This allows the cream cheese layer to set properly, so your slices stay neat and firm.
Fresh or Frozen Blueberries?
Both work beautifully in this recipe! Fresh blueberries are ideal during peak season for the brightest flavor and best texture. However, frozen berries are a convenient year-round option. If using frozen blueberries, don’t thaw them before adding to the batter—doing so can cause them to bleed too much color and make the loaf overly wet. Just toss them with flour and fold in gently.
How to Store and Serve
To store your Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread, allow it to cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or storing it in an airtight container. It will keep at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, wrap the loaf in foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To serve, simply thaw at room temperature or warm slices in the microwave or toaster oven.
This bread is delicious served plain, but it’s also lovely with a smear of softened butter, a dollop of whipped cream, or a drizzle of lemon glaze. Pair it with your favorite tea or coffee, or serve with fruit salad and eggs for a balanced brunch.
Nutrition Information
Each slice of this delightful bread is estimated to contain between 250 and 280 calories, making it a moderately indulgent treat. You’ll get about 30 to 35 grams of carbohydrates, 4 to 5 grams of protein, and around 13 to 15 grams of fat. The bread is relatively high in saturated fat due to the cream cheese and butter, and it offers about 16 to 18 grams of sugar per slice. While it’s not a health food, it certainly fits within the realm of a satisfying treat when enjoyed in moderation.
Common Questions About Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Just ensure it contains xanthan gum or add a little yourself to maintain the structure of the loaf.
What if I don’t have cream cheese?
The cream cheese swirl is a key component of this bread’s texture and flavor, but in a pinch, you can omit it or replace it with a thick Greek yogurt sweetened and thickened with a bit of sugar and cornstarch.
Can I use other berries?
Absolutely! While blueberries are classic, raspberries, blackberries, or even chopped strawberries would also be delicious. Just be aware that raspberries tend to break apart more easily when mixed.
Why is my bread browning too quickly on top?
This can happen depending on your oven. If you notice the top browning before the center is done, simply tent the loaf with aluminum foil for the final 15 to 20 minutes of baking to prevent over-browning.
How do I make this even more indulgent?
Add a crumb topping made with flour, butter, and sugar for an extra layer of texture. Or drizzle the finished loaf with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice.
Conclusion: A Must-Try Recipe for Any Baker
Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread is more than just a baked good—it’s a small celebration in loaf form. With its visually stunning swirl, irresistible flavor combination, and soft, moist texture, it brings joy to everyday moments and special gatherings alike. Easy to make and even easier to love, this recipe belongs in every baker’s repertoire. Whether you’re baking it for yourself or to share with friends and family, expect compliments and empty plates.
Next time you’re in the mood to bake something from scratch that looks impressive and tastes even better, give this loaf a try. One slice, and you’ll understand why it’s such a hit. Don’t forget to keep extra blueberries and cream cheese on hand—you’ll want to make it again and again!