Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread is a delightful treat that combines the richness of cream cheese with the sweetness of fresh blueberries. This recipe is not just quick and simple; it’s also incredibly versatile. Whether you enjoy it as a breakfast item, a dessert, or a snack throughout the day, this blueberry bread will satisfy your cravings. Its moist texture and bursting flavor make it a standout choice for gatherings or cozy mornings at home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious bread in no time.
- Bursting with Flavor: The combination of cream cheese and blueberries creates a rich taste that is hard to resist.
- Versatile Treat: Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or desserts, this bread fits any occasion.
- Moist and Delicious: Fresh blueberries ensure that each slice is juicy and flavorful.
- Great for Sharing: Bake a loaf to share with friends and family; it’s sure to impress!
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the baking process, having the right tools at your disposal is essential for making Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread efficiently.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Loaf pans (9×5)
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Loaf pans: These are crucial for shaping your bread. A good quality pan ensures even baking.
- Electric mixer: It makes creaming together butter and cream cheese much easier, saving you time and effort.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to successful baking.
Ingredients
To make your Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread, gather the following ingredients:
For the Bread
- 1 cup butter (softened/unsalted)
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 4 eggs
- 2 cups flour (all-purpose)
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 cups blueberries (fresh, tossed in 1 tbsp flour)
How to Make Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease two 9×5 loaf pans to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cream Together Butter and Cheese
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, cream cheese, and sugar until smooth.
Step 3: Add Vanilla and Eggs
Add in the vanilla extract followed by the eggs. Mix until well combined.
Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Slowly add in the flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix until just combined.
Step 5: Fold in Blueberries
Carefully fold in the fresh blueberries that have been tossed in flour. This helps prevent them from sinking during baking.
Step 6: Prepare for Baking
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared loaf pans. The batter will be thick – that’s perfectly fine!
Step 7: Bake Until Golden
Place both pans into your preheated oven. Bake for about 50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 8: Cool Before Slicing
Once baked, remove from the oven and let cool slightly before taking them out of the pans. Slice your Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread while warm or let it cool completely if preferred! Enjoy!
How to Serve Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread
Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, these serving suggestions will elevate your experience.
For Breakfast
- Enjoy a slice warm with butter spread on top for an extra rich taste.
- Pair with Greek yogurt and honey for a balanced morning meal.
As a Snack
- Serve with a cup of tea or coffee to complement the bread’s sweetness.
- Top slices with cream cheese frosting for a decadent afternoon treat.
For Dessert
- Drizzle with chocolate sauce and serve alongside vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert.
- Garnish with fresh blueberries and whipped cream for an elegant presentation.
How to Perfect Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread
To achieve the best results when making Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread, follow these helpful tips.
- Use fresh blueberries: Fresh blueberries provide the best flavor and texture. If using frozen, make sure they are thawed and drained well.
- Don’t overmix: Gently fold in the blueberries to avoid breaking them apart, which helps maintain their shape and flavor.
- Check the doneness: Use a toothpick to check if it’s done; it should come out clean from the center of the bread.
- Cool before slicing: Allow the bread to cool slightly in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack. This prevents it from becoming soggy.
Best Side Dishes for Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread
Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that enhance its flavors. Here are some great options:
- Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs provide protein and create a satisfying breakfast combination.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances the sweetness of the bread.
- Bacon or Sausage: The savory flavors of bacon or sausage contrast nicely with the sweetness of blueberry bread.
- Granola Parfait: Layer granola, yogurt, and fresh berries for a wholesome side that complements the bread’s texture.
- Coffee Cake: Serve alongside coffee cake for an indulgent brunch spread.
- Smoothie: A berry smoothie can enhance your meal and provide additional nutrients without overpowering flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many home bakers run into a few common pitfalls when making Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread. Here are some mistakes to avoid for the best results.
- Neglecting to soften ingredients: Using cold butter or cream cheese can lead to a lumpy batter. Always ensure these ingredients are softened at room temperature for a smooth mix.
- Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can make the bread dense and tough. Stir until just combined, especially when adding flour and blueberries.
- Skipping the flour toss: Failing to toss the blueberries in flour may cause them to sink to the bottom while baking. Lightly coating them helps distribute them evenly throughout the bread.
- Not preheating the oven: Placing your bread in an unheated oven can affect its rise and texture. Always preheat your oven to 350 degrees before baking.
- Ignoring cooling time: Cutting into the bread too soon can lead to a crumbly texture. Allow it to cool slightly in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread in an airtight container for up to 5 days in the fridge.
- Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap or foil for easy access.
Freezing Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread
- You can freeze this bread for up to 3 months.
- Slice the bread and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
Reheating Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees, wrap the bread in foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat for about 15-20 seconds, checking until warm.
- Stovetop: Heat slices in a skillet over low heat for about 2-3 minutes on each side until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make my Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread healthier?
You can substitute half of the butter with applesauce or use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for added nutrients.
Can I use frozen blueberries instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen blueberries! Be sure not to thaw them first; add them directly from the freezer to prevent bleeding into the batter.
What should I serve with Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread?
This delicious bread pairs wonderfully with coffee, tea, or even yogurt for breakfast or a snack.
How can I customize my Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread?
Feel free to add nuts like walnuts or pecans, or mix in spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for extra flavor!
Final Thoughts
Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread is not just a delightful treat; it’s also versatile enough for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. This recipe is easy to adjust based on your taste preferences, allowing you to create your perfect loaf. Give it a try and savor every bite!
Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread
Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread is a deliciously moist and sweet treat that brings together the rich flavor of cream cheese and the burst of fresh blueberries. Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or desserts, this easy-to-make recipe will quickly become a favorite in your home. Each slice is soft, flavorful, and inviting – ideal for sharing with friends and family on cozy mornings or festive gatherings. With its delightful balance of sweetness and creaminess, this blueberry bread is sure to impress!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 16 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast/Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 cups fresh blueberries (tossed in flour)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9×5 loaf pans.
- In a large bowl, cream together softened butter, cream cheese, and sugar until smooth.
- Mix in vanilla extract and eggs until well combined.
- Gradually add flour, baking powder, and salt; mix until just combined.
- Gently fold in floured blueberries to prevent sinking.
- Pour thick batter into prepared loaf pans evenly.
- Bake for about 50 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow to cool slightly before slicing.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (60g)
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
