Description

This Zesty Lemon Cream Cheese Bread is a moist and tangy quick bread with a rich cream cheese base, bright lemon zest, and a sweet-tart glaze, perfect for breakfast, snack, or dessert.

Ingredients

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1 1/4 cups granulated sugar

2 teaspoons baking powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled

8 oz cream cheese, softened

2 large eggs

1/4 cup fresh lemon juice

2 tablespoons fresh lemon zest

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the glaze:

1 cup powdered sugar

2 tablespoons lemon juice

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt.
In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and melted butter until smooth and creamy.
Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Do not overmix.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Whisk together powdered sugar and lemon juice to form the glaze, then drizzle over the cooled bread. Let it set before slicing.

Notes

Add fresh blueberries or raspberries for a fruity variation.

Top with chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.

Use lime juice and zest for a lemon-lime citrus twist.

Bake in mini loaf pans for 25–30 minutes as an alternative.

Use a sugar substitute for a lower-sugar option without compromising taste.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50–60 minutes
Category: Quick Bread
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 270
Sugar: 24g
Sodium: 210mg
Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 34g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 4g
Cholesterol: 65mg