Lemon Cream Cheese Bread Recipe

If you’re searching for a melt-in-your-mouth treat that captures the best parts of spring and drapes them in sweet, tangy decadence, Lemon Cream Cheese Bread is your new go-to. Imagine a tender, buttery loaf that balances the bright zing of real lemon with the creamy richness of cream cheese, finished off by a dreamy lemon glaze. It’s the kind of quick bread that turns ordinary afternoons into something worth celebrating — whether you’re sharing slices with friends, serving it for brunch, or enjoying that well-deserved solo coffee break.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Lemon Cream Cheese Bread couldn’t be easier to whip together, yet every ingredient works a little magic. From the soft tang of cream cheese to a burst of lemon, each one brings its own personality to the party — and when they all meet, you get moist perfection with a citrusy twist!

• All-purpose flour: The backbone of the bread, providing structure while allowing the loaf to remain tender and moist.
• Baking powder: Gives your quick bread a reliable lift, so it rises beautifully.
• Baking soda: Partners with the buttermilk and lemon juice for a subtle rise and soft crumb.
• Salt: Just a pinch helps enhance all those sweet-tart flavors.
• Unsalted butter (softened): Adds richness and that irresistible buttery taste in every bite.
• Cream cheese (softened): The secret to a plush, slightly tangy crumb that stays moist for days.
• Granulated sugar: Gives sweetness and helps create a delightfully tender texture.
• Large eggs: Bind everything together and add structure for a stable yet soft loaf.
• Lemon juice: Freshly squeezed is a must for zippy, true lemon flavor — not just sweetness.
• Lemon zest: The aromatic oils in the zest add next-level brightness you can taste and smell.
• Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavors and adds a cozy warmth behind all that lemony pop.
• Buttermilk: Ensures the bread stays light, moist, and a touch tangy — never dense.
• Powdered sugar (for glaze): Dissolves smoothly for a flawless drizzle and a little extra sweetness.
• Lemon juice (for glaze): More citrus brightness right over the top — just when you think it couldn’t get any better.

How to Make Lemon Cream Cheese Bread

Step 1: Prep the Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×5-inch loaf pan with a swipe of butter or nonstick spray. Dust the inside with a whisper of flour, tapping out the excess — this will help your Lemon Cream Cheese Bread release cleanly after baking.

Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. It seems simple, but evenly incorporating your leavening ensures that each bite is just as light and fluffy as the last.

Step 3: Cream the Butter, Cream Cheese, and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat together your softened butter, cream cheese, and granulated sugar until it turns pale and fluffy. This step is the foundation for that rich, plush crumb that makes Lemon Cream Cheese Bread unforgettable.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Flavors

Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing until just combined. Now, add your freshly squeezed lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract — these will fill your kitchen with the scent of sunshine and perfectly balance the richness of the batter.

Step 5: Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Buttermilk

Now for the secret to avoiding overmixing: Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture in three parts, alternating with the buttermilk. Mix gently, just until combined each time, so your bread stays incredibly soft.

Step 6: Pour and Bake

Spoon the batter into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top so it bakes up with a beautiful dome. Slide it into the oven and bake for 50–60 minutes. When a toothpick comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, it’s ready! Let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then carefully transfer to a wire rack.

Step 7: Glaze Time!

Once the bread is completely cool, whisk together your powdered sugar and lemon juice until velvety smooth. Drizzle generously over the loaf, letting the lemon glaze drip down the sides for that signature look and extra burst of flavor.

How to Serve Lemon Cream Cheese Bread

Garnishes

Dress up your Lemon Cream Cheese Bread with a sprinkle of extra lemon zest or a scattering of edible flowers. Thin slices of candied lemon peel make a pretty (and tasty) topping, while a dusting of powdered sugar adds a subtle, frosted effect.

Side Dishes

A slice of this bread is fabulous on its own, but it plays especially well with fresh berries, a dollop of whipped cream, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Pair it with a pot of Earl Grey tea, coffee, or a light iced herbal infusion for a truly refreshing snack or dessert.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut your Lemon Cream Cheese Bread into fingers for brunch platters, cube it for dessert parfaits layered with berries and yogurt, or serve in thick, warm slices for breakfast. You can even cut it into mini loaves or muffins for party favors or lunchbox treats.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your leftover Lemon Cream Cheese Bread moist and delicious by storing it in an airtight container. It holds up beautifully at room temperature for up to three days, or you can refrigerate it for up to a week (the cream cheese keeps it fresh without drying out).

Freezing

Lemon Cream Cheese Bread is a superstar when it comes to freezing! Let the loaf cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by foil. It keeps in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw overnight at room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Reheating

To enjoy a warm slice, pop it in the microwave for a few seconds or toast it gently in the oven. The creamy, lemony flavors shine brightest when the bread is slightly warm — the glaze even gets a little gooey again!

FAQs

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?

Fresh lemon juice makes a noticeable difference in both flavor and aroma, but if you’re in a pinch, bottled can work. Just know you’ll be missing some of the “sunshine” that makes Lemon Cream Cheese Bread so irresistible.

Why is my bread dense instead of light?

This usually happens if the batter is overmixed or the measuring isn’t precise. For the fluffiest Lemon Cream Cheese Bread, be gentle when combining ingredients and always measure flour using the spoon-and-level method.

Can I add other mix-ins?

Absolutely! Stir in a handful of poppy seeds for a classic touch, or fold in blueberries for an extra burst of color and sweetness. Even a swirl of raspberry jam before baking would be delicious.

How do I know when the bread is fully baked?

Insert a toothpick or cake tester into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, your Lemon Cream Cheese Bread is ready to cool and glaze.

Can I make this as muffins instead?

You sure can! Divide the batter among muffin tins, filling each about two-thirds full, and bake at 350°F for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick tests clean. Don’t forget the lemon glaze drizzle!

Final Thoughts

There’s something magical about sharing a loaf of Lemon Cream Cheese Bread with the people you love — or savoring a slice all to yourself with coffee and a quiet moment. If you try it once, you’ll find endless occasions to bake it again, each time brightening your day with a little more zest and a lot of joy.

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