Oh my goodness, let me tell you, Strawberry Cream Cheese Bread is one of those delightful treats that just warms your heart and satisfies your sweet tooth! I remember the first time I baked this magical loaf; it was a lovely spring morning, and the air was filled with the sweet scent of fresh strawberries. As I pulled it out of the oven, the golden top sparkling with a hint of sugar, I knew I had stumbled upon a little slice of heaven.
This recipe is special to me because it combines two of my favorite things: the rich, creamy texture of cream cheese and the fresh, bright taste of strawberries. It’s not just a bread; it’s a sweet experience that can turn an ordinary morning into a celebration. Whether you’re enjoying it for breakfast or as a snack with a good book and a cup of coffee, this bread is sure to bring a smile to your face.
What’s in Strawberry Cream Cheese Bread?
All-purpose flour: This is the main base for our bread, giving it that lovely fluffy texture. I usually stick with a good quality brand—King Arthur or Gold Medal are my go-tos.
Sugar: We need a bit of sweetness to balance the cream cheese and strawberries. Granulated sugar does the trick perfectly here.
Baking powder: This ingredient helps our bread rise, giving it that soft and airy texture we’re after.
Baking soda: Paired with the cream cheese, it helps to enhance the bread’s fluffiness and golden color.
Salt: Just a touch of salt acts as a flavor enhancer, bringing all the ingredients together beautifully.
Butter: Melted butter adds richness and moisture that makes this bread so soft and enjoyable.
Eggs: They bind everything together and add a bit of lift. Plus, they make the bread so delightful!
Cream cheese: The star of the show! Cream cheese creates a luscious swirl throughout the bread, giving it that sought-after richness.
Fresh strawberries: Juicy and sweet, these berries provide bursts of flavor in every bite. I recommend using the ripest ones you can find for the best taste.
Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla rounds out the flavors and adds a lovely aroma while baking.
Is Strawberry Cream Cheese Bread Good for You?
Now, while I wouldn’t exactly call this bread a superfood, let’s not forget the perks!
Fresh strawberries: Packed with antioxidants, vitamin C, and fiber, they add a healthy touch to your slice of joy.
Cream cheese: It contains calcium and protein, but it’s also important to be mindful of the fat content. I like to use reduced-fat cream cheese to keep it a bit lighter without sacrificing flavor.
On the flip side, this bread does have some sugar and calories, so it’s one of those treats best enjoyed in moderation. Using whole-grain flour instead of all-purpose can also add some fiber, making it a tad healthier!
Ingredients
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup sugar
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
*Yields: About 8 servings*
How to Make Strawberry Cream Cheese Bread?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In another bowl, mix the wet ingredients: melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until everything is well combined.
4. Slowly add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!
5. Fold in the fresh strawberries, ensuring they’re distributed evenly without crushing them.
6. In a separate small bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s smooth.
7. Pour half of the bread batter into the prepared loaf pan, then dollop half of the cream cheese mixture over the batter. Swirl it gently with a knife if you like. Repeat with the remaining batter and cream cheese.
8. Bake for 55-65 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Slice it up and enjoy!
Sweet Suggestions to Enhance Your Bread Game
– If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding some chocolate chips or nuts for an extra crunch.
– This bread freezes beautifully, so make a double batch and save one loaf for a rainy day!
– Serve it warm with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey.
I can’t wait for you to try this Strawberry Cream Cheese Bread! It’s definitely one of those recipes that makes your kitchen smell divine and keeps everyone coming back for seconds. When you give it a whirl, snap a picture and let me know how it turns out. Happy baking!
