Lemon Cream Cheese Bread with Lemon Glaze Recipe

If you adore bright, tangy flavors balanced with creamy sweetness, then this Lemon Cream Cheese Bread with Lemon Glaze Recipe is about to become your new favorite treat. This bread is a delightful twist on traditional quick bread, combining the softness of cream cheese and the fresh punch of lemon to create a moist, tender loaf that practically melts in your mouth. With a luscious lemon glaze drizzled on top, each bite bursts with citrusy goodness and rich, comforting texture — perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a simple dessert that feels like a sunny celebration.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients for this Lemon Cream Cheese Bread with Lemon Glaze Recipe is simpler than you might think. Each component plays a special role: from the tender crumb that the cream cheese and sour cream impart to the zesty lemon notes that awaken your senses. Let’s walk through these essentials that make every slice unforgettable.

• 1 cup all-purpose flour: The foundation of the bread’s soft, airy texture.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the bread rise beautifully and become fluffy.
• ½ teaspoon baking soda: Works alongside baking powder for the perfect lift.
• ¼ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors for balance.
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds rich moisture and a tender crumb.
• 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened: The secret ingredient for silky, luscious texture.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the bread without overpowering the lemon zing.
• 2 large eggs: Help bind everything and add structure.
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice: Provides fresh citrus punch for that bright flavor.
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest: Intensifies the lemon aroma and flavor naturally.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Balances the tartness and rounds out the taste.
• ½ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt): Keeps the bread ultra-moist and tender.
• 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze): Adds that sweet, smooth finish on top.
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (for glaze): Gives the glaze a refreshing, tangy kick.
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest (optional for glaze): A little extra zest if you want to dial up the lemon flavor.

How to Make Lemon Cream Cheese Bread with Lemon Glaze Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to create the perfect baking environment. While it warms, grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan, ensuring your bread won’t stick and will bake evenly with a beautiful crust.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This dry mix is the backbone of your bread’s structure, giving it that delicate rise and crumb that’s vital for a perfect loaf.

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

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, cream cheese, and sugar together until light and fluffy. This step is key because it creates a luscious, creamy base that makes the bread remarkably tender and moist.

Step 4: Add the Eggs

Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. This ensures even mixing and helps build the batter’s structure, contributing to a soft, cake-like texture once baked.

Step 5: Incorporate the Lemon and Vanilla

Next, mix in the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. These bright, fragrant ingredients bring an irresistible citrus sparkle and warm depth that make this Lemon Cream Cheese Bread with Lemon Glaze Recipe so special.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients Alternately with Sour Cream

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with sour cream. Mixing until just combined keeps the bread tender and prevents it from becoming tough — the sour cream also amps up the moistness and tang.

Step 7: Pour Batter into the Pan

Pour your smooth batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly to ensure uniform baking. This sets the stage for a perfectly shaped loaf with even texture throughout.

Step 8: Bake the Bread

Bake for 55-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. This slow bake allows the cream cheese and sour cream to work their magic, producing a golden crust and a soft center that’s full of lemony goodness.

Step 9: Cool the Bread

Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes to firm up, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling fully before glazing is key to prevent the glaze from melting into the bread and losing its pretty finish.

Step 10: Make and Drizzle the Lemon Glaze

Whisk the powdered sugar and fresh lemon juice until smooth to create a glossy, tangy glaze. Once the bread is cool, drizzle the glaze over the top, letting it set into a sweet, citrusy coat that takes this Lemon Cream Cheese Bread with Lemon Glaze Recipe to the next level.

How to Serve Lemon Cream Cheese Bread with Lemon Glaze Recipe

Garnishes

For a lovely finishing touch, sprinkle extra lemon zest or finely chopped candied lemon peel atop the glaze. Fresh mint leaves also add a delightful herbal note and a pop of green color, making each slice feel like a little celebration.

Side Dishes

This bread pairs wonderfully with a cup of rich coffee or a refreshing herbal tea, such as chamomile or mint. For brunch gatherings, serve alongside fresh berries or a light fruit salad to complement the lemon’s brightness.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider slicing the bread and serving it as mini toasts topped with whipped cream and a few blueberries. You could even turn it into a layered trifle with lemon curd and mascarpone for a show-stopping dessert inspired by this Lemon Cream Cheese Bread with Lemon Glaze Recipe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover bread wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This preserves its freshness and prevents it from drying out so that every bite stays moist and flavorful.

Freezing

For longer storage, wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing. It can keep well for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature.

Reheating

Warm slices briefly in a toaster oven or microwave before serving for a soft, just-baked feel. You can even add a little extra drizzle of lemon glaze or a smear of butter for extra indulgence.

FAQs

Can I substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream in this recipe?

Absolutely! Greek yogurt is a fantastic substitute for sour cream in this Lemon Cream Cheese Bread with Lemon Glaze Recipe. It provides similar moisture and tang without compromising the bread’s tender texture.

Is this bread gluten-free?

This recipe uses all-purpose flour, so it is not gluten-free. However, you can try substituting with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking to make a gluten-free version, keeping in mind that texture may vary slightly.

How long will the bread stay fresh?

Stored properly at room temperature, this bread stays fresh and moist for about three days. After that, it’s best enjoyed quickly or frozen for later to maintain its delightful flavor and texture.

Can I make this bread dairy-free?

While cream cheese, sour cream, and butter are essential for the texture and flavor here, you can experiment with dairy-free cream cheese and yogurt alternatives to make a dairy-free version. The texture might be a bit different but still delicious!

Does the glaze harden once set?

The lemon glaze becomes slightly firm as it sets but remains soft and gooey enough to enhance each slice. If you prefer a firmer glaze, you can add a bit more powdered sugar for a thicker consistency.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so comforting and bright about making this Lemon Cream Cheese Bread with Lemon Glaze Recipe. The way the creamy filling melds with the zesty lemon notes reminds me of sunshine on a plate. Whether you’re baking it for a special occasion or just because you crave a little citrusy indulgence, this bread is bound to become a beloved classic in your kitchen. I genuinely hope you try it soon and watch it bring smiles to every table!

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