Cream Cheese Blueberry Bread

The Cream Cheese Blueberry Bread is a delightful treat that brings together the rich creaminess of cheese and the sweet burst of fresh blueberries. This bread is perfect for breakfast, as a snack, or even as a dessert. Its moist texture and vibrant flavor make it an irresistible choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delicious bread in no time.
• Moist and Flavorful: The combination of cream cheese and ripe blueberries ensures each slice is packed with flavor.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it warm with butter, or serve it alongside coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon treat.
• Perfect for Sharing: This recipe yields 16 slices, making it great for gatherings or family breakfasts.
• Easy to Customize: Feel free to add nuts or spices to tailor the recipe to your taste!

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes the process smoother and more enjoyable. Gather these essentials to start your baking adventure!

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Electric mixer
• Loaf pans (9” x 5”)
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when creaming butter and cream cheese together, ensuring a smooth batter.
• Loaf pans: Specifically designed for baking bread, ensuring even cooking and easy removal once baked.

Ingredients

For the Bread

• 2 Tbsp all purpose flour
• 2 c. blueberries (fresh)
• 1 c. butter (softened)
• 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
• 1 1/2 c. sugar
• 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 4 eggs
• 2 c. all purpose flour
• 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt

How to Make Cream Cheese Blueberry Bread

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F to ensure it’s hot enough for baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Blueberries

In a mixing bowl, toss the blueberries with 2 Tbsp flour. This helps keep them from sinking in the batter during baking.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Cream Cheese

In a large mixing bowl, combine butter, cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together the remaining flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined.

Step 5: Fold in Blueberries

Gently fold in the floured blueberries into the batter, being careful not to overmix.

Step 6: Bake the Bread

Pour the batter into two greased loaf pans (9” x 5”). Bake for approximately 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool Down

Let the bread rest on a wire rack for about 10 minutes. Carefully run a knife around the edges of each pan before flipping them out onto the rack to cool completely.

Enjoy your homemade Cream Cheese Blueberry Bread! It’s perfect for any time of day!

How to Serve Cream Cheese Blueberry Bread

Cream Cheese Blueberry Bread is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you are serving it for breakfast, dessert, or a snack, these suggestions will enhance your experience.

For Breakfast

• With Cream Cheese Spread: Add a layer of cream cheese on top for an extra creamy bite.
• Accompanied by Fresh Fruit: Serve with slices of fresh strawberries or bananas for a refreshing contrast.
• With Yogurt: Pair with a dollop of Greek yogurt to balance the sweetness and add protein.

As a Snack

• With Nut Butter: Spread almond or peanut butter for added flavor and nutrition.
• Toasted with Honey: Lightly toast the bread and drizzle with honey for a warm treat.
• Served with Tea or Coffee: Enjoy a slice with your favorite hot beverage for a cozy afternoon break.

For Dessert

• With Ice Cream: Top warm slices with vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert.
• Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce: A light drizzle of chocolate sauce adds an indulgent touch.

How to Perfect Cream Cheese Blueberry Bread

To achieve the best results when making Cream Cheese Blueberry Bread, consider these useful tips.

• Choose Fresh Blueberries: Fresh blueberries yield better flavor and texture compared to frozen ones.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that butter and cream cheese are at room temperature for easier mixing.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mix just until combined to keep the bread light and fluffy.
• Use Parchment Paper: Line your loaf pans with parchment paper to make removing the bread easier after baking.
• Check Doneness Early: Start checking for doneness around 40 minutes to avoid overbaking.
• Let it Cool Properly: Allow bread to cool completely on a wire rack to maintain moisture.

Best Side Dishes for Cream Cheese Blueberry Bread

Complement your Cream Cheese Blueberry Bread with these delightful side dishes that elevate your meal.

1. Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer Greek yogurt with granola and fresh fruit for a nutritious side.
2. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and color to your meal.
3. Cottage Cheese Bowl: Serve cottage cheese topped with sliced peaches or berries for added protein.
4. Chia Seed Pudding: A creamy chia pudding offers a healthy option packed with fiber.
5. Smoothie Bowl: Blend up your favorite fruits into a smoothie bowl topped with nuts and seeds for texture.
6. Nutty Granola Bars: Homemade granola bars provide an energy boost alongside the sweet bread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Cream Cheese Blueberry Bread can be simple, but a few common mistakes can affect the final product. Here are some tips to ensure your bread turns out perfectly.

• Using too many blueberries: Overloading on blueberries can lead to a soggy texture. Stick to the recommended amount to maintain the right balance.
• Not softening cream cheese: If your cream cheese isn’t softened, it won’t mix well with the other ingredients, leading to lumps. Always let it sit at room temperature before using.
• Skipping the flour coating for blueberries: This step helps prevent the blueberries from sinking to the bottom during baking. Toss them in flour before adding them to the batter.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Baking is a science; precise measurements ensure consistent results. Use measuring cups and spoons for accuracy.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can make the bread dense and tough. Mix just until combined for a light and fluffy texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Ensure the bread is completely cooled before sealing it in.

Freezing Cream Cheese Blueberry Bread

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil for best results.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Cream Cheese Blueberry Bread

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place bread on a baking sheet, and warm for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices for about 15-20 seconds on medium power.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat, warming each slice for about 2-3 minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Cream Cheese Blueberry Bread.

Can I use frozen blueberries instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen blueberries work well! Just add them directly into the batter without thawing.

How do I know when my Cream Cheese Blueberry Bread is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, it’s ready!

Can I customize this recipe?

Absolutely! You can add nuts or other fruits like raspberries for variation.

What should I serve with Cream Cheese Blueberry Bread?

It pairs beautifully with coffee or tea and makes a delightful breakfast or snack option.

Final Thoughts

Cream Cheese Blueberry Bread is not only delicious but also versatile. Enjoy it as a breakfast treat or a sweet afternoon snack. Feel free to experiment with different mix-ins or toppings like lemon zest or nuts. Give this recipe a try and delight your taste buds!