This Lemon Cream Cheese Bread is a wonderfully moist and tender quick bread with a delightful, tangy flavor. A rich cream cheese swirl runs through the center, adding a ribbon of smooth indulgence that perfectly complements the bright, zesty lemon. It’s a simple, elegant loaf that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet afternoon treat.

Lemon Cream Cheese Bread

Ingredients:

How To Make Lemon Cream Cheese Bread

1. Step 1: Prep & Mix: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a standard loaf pan. In a large bowl, whisk together the sugar, eggs, sour cream, lemon zest, lemon juice, vanilla, and canola oil until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
2. Step 2: Combine Batter: In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Set the batter aside.
3. Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Swirl: In a small bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until the mixture is smooth.
4. Step 4: Layer & Swirl: Add half of the batter to the prepared loaf pan. Spoon about half of the cream cheese mixture on top, then use a knife to gently swirl it into the batter. Top with the rest of the bread batter, then spoon the remaining cream cheese mixture on top. Carefully swirl it to create a marbled look.
5. Step 5: Bake: Bake the bread for 65-70 minutes. Cover the loaf with foil for the last 20-30 minutes of baking to prevent the top from browning too much.
6. Step 6: Cool & Serve: Allow the bread to cool completely in the pan before slicing. This allows the cream cheese swirl to fully set.