If you’re looking for a bake that feels like a warm hug, the Blueberry Cream Cheese Loaf is your new go-to treat. Imagine a pillow-soft crumb, juicy bursts of blueberries, and a lovely tang from cream cheese, all mingled in each bite. Whether you’re hosting brunch, cheering up a rainy afternoon, or just want to indulge in something utterly comforting, this loaf checks every box. The best part? It’s a total crowd-pleaser but so easy to put together, you might just make it a weekly tradition.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Blueberry Cream Cheese Loaf keeps it simple with pantry classics and a few superstar additions. Each ingredient plays its part for flavor, texture, and that gorgeous swirl of color running through every slice.
- All-purpose flour: The backbone of the loaf, giving it structure and that perfect moist crumb.
- Baking powder & baking soda: These two are the dynamic leavening duo—ensuring your loaf rises beautifully and stays tender.
- Salt: Don’t skip it! Salt wakes up all the other flavors.
- Unsalted butter (softened): Creamy richness means a melt-in-your-mouth bite every time.
- Cream cheese (softened): Adds luscious tang and keeps the crumb moist and dense in the best way.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the loaf while helping achieve a golden crust.
- Large eggs: Bind the batter together for a sturdy-yet-tender slice.
- Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavors with cozy warmth.
- Sour cream: Extra tang and moisture—it makes a noticeable difference in texture.
- Fresh or frozen blueberries: Little pops of vibrant flavor and pretty purple streaks (no need to thaw if using frozen).
- All-purpose flour (for coating blueberries): Prevents your berries from sinking so each slice is loaded with fruit.
How to Make Blueberry Cream Cheese Loaf
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Preheat
First things first: warm up your oven to 350°F (175°C) and either grease a trusty 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper if you love an easy clean-up. This way, your loaf pops out without sticking and maintains its beautiful shape for slicing.
Step 2: Whisk Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, combine 1 ¾ cups of flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. A quick whisk ensures they’re evenly distributed, giving your Blueberry Cream Cheese Loaf a perfectly balanced crumb and consistent rise throughout.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Cream Cheese
Bring out your hand mixer or stand mixer: beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until smooth and velvety. This fusion is the secret behind the ultra-soft, slightly tangy base, creating that signature loaf texture.
Step 4: Sweeten and Fluff
Add the sugar next and keep mixing until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This step incorporates air, helping your Blueberry Cream Cheese Loaf come out airy and tender for that bakery-style finish.
Step 5: Add Eggs, Vanilla, and Sour Cream
Drop in your eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla and sour cream until everything looks smooth and dreamy—this combo brings tang, richness, and subtle vanilla notes to the loaf.
Step 6: Bring It All Together
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet, mixing with care—overmixing can make the loaf tough, so gently stir until just combined. Your batter should look thick but not dry (trust the process!).
Step 7: Prep Blueberries and Fold In
Toss the blueberries with a tablespoon of flour so they don’t all sink to the bottom. Gently fold them into the batter with a spatula, being careful not to smash the berries—those little pockets of flavor are treasures in every bite.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Pour the batter into your prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 55 to 65 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a moist crumb or two. Cool in the pan for about 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to finish cooling before slicing into your masterpiece.
How to Serve Blueberry Cream Cheese Loaf
Garnishes
A drizzle of simple lemon glaze (powdered sugar and a splash of lemon juice) is divine, or sprinkle powdered sugar over the top for a bakery-worthy look. Fresh blueberries and a bit of lemon zest perk up the loaf and make it almost too pretty to eat—almost!
Side Dishes
Pair this loaf with a cup of tea, coffee, or even a homemade berry compote for a dreamy brunch spread. For a lighter bite, fresh fruit or a bowl of yogurt on the side complements the richness and makes breakfast feel extra special.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn breakfast into an event by slicing and toasting the loaf, then topping each slice with a smear of extra cream cheese or whipped butter. For dessert, plate thick slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of mascarpone—the Blueberry Cream Cheese Loaf easily switches from breakfast treat to show-stopping finale.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once your Blueberry Cream Cheese Loaf has cooled completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store at room temperature for up to 2 days—if it lasts that long. For longer shelf life, pop it in the fridge where it’ll stay deliciously moist for up to a week.
Freezing
Your loaf freezes beautifully! Slice it first for easy, grab-and-go portions or wrap whole. Double-wrap in plastic and foil, or use an airtight container. It’ll keep its flavor and texture for up to three months in the freezer—just remember to label it so you don’t forget about your hidden stash.
Reheating
To enjoy a slice like it’s fresh from the oven, gently warm in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or toast lightly for a crisp edge. If reheating from frozen, let it thaw at room temperature first. The cream cheese ensures it always stays moist, whether fresh or from the freezer.
FAQs
Can I use frozen blueberries instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen blueberries work just as well as fresh—just keep them frozen (do not thaw), and be sure to coat them in flour to distribute evenly throughout the Blueberry Cream Cheese Loaf.
What’s the best way to prevent the loaf from sticking to the pan?
Greasing your pan well or lining it with parchment paper guarantees easy removal. Letting the loaf cool for about 15 minutes in the pan before turning it out keeps it intact and gorgeous.
Can I add a lemon glaze to the loaf?
Yes, and it’s a delicious way to elevate the Blueberry Cream Cheese Loaf! Mix powdered sugar with a little fresh lemon juice and drizzle over the cooled loaf for a bright, sweet finish.
How can I tell when my loaf is done baking?
Use the trusty toothpick test: insert into the center, and if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, you’re good to go. If it has wet batter, give it a few more minutes in the oven, checking regularly.
Is it okay to substitute Greek yogurt for the sour cream?
Certainly! Greek yogurt makes a fine swap for sour cream in this recipe and keeps the loaf moist with a sturdy, satisfying crumb—your Blueberry Cream Cheese Loaf will still turn out beautifully.
Final Thoughts
You’re just a few simple steps away from baking a loaf that’s bound to become the highlight of any get-together or quiet coffee break. If you love treats that mix sweet fruit, a touch of tang, and unbeatable softness, you owe it to yourself to try this Blueberry Cream Cheese Loaf. Happy baking—don’t forget to sneak a warm slice straight from the oven!
PrintBlueberry Cream Cheese Loaf Recipe
Indulge in the delightful combination of juicy blueberries and rich cream cheese with this scrumptious Blueberry Cream Cheese Loaf. Perfect for breakfast or as a sweet treat with your afternoon tea.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (about 8 slices) 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Additional:
- 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries (if frozen, do not thaw)
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (for coating blueberries)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line with parchment paper.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 ¾ cups flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt; set aside.
- Cream Butter and Cream Cheese: In a large bowl, beat butter and cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar and beat until light and fluffy.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: Mix in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla and sour cream, stirring until combined.
- Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures: Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Add Blueberries: Toss blueberries with 1 tablespoon of flour, then gently fold into the batter.
- Bake: Pour batter into loaf pan, smooth the top, and bake for 55–65 minutes until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add 1 teaspoon of lemon zest to the batter.
- You can also drizzle the cooled loaf with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 19g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 55mg