Name: Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Swirl Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: PT-489258H6M56S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup pumpkin puree; ¾ cup granulated sugar; ½ cup vegetable oil; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; ½ tsp ground nutmeg; 1 tsp baking soda; Pinch of salt; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; ¼ cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; ½ tsp vanilla extract

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy treat that sings with the flavors of fall, this Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Swirl Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine a moist, spiced pumpkin bread that’s enriched by a luscious, creamy cheesecake swirl running through the center — it’s like autumn wrapped up in every bite. This bread is wonderfully rich without being dense, making it perfect for a leisurely brunch or a comforting dessert to impress your friends and family.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a loaf cake with two thick slices cut from it, all covered with a smooth white frosting. The cake is golden-brown with a soft crumb texture visible on the inside. The frosting is evenly spread on top of the loaf and the sliced pieces, with some gentle swirls on the surface. The cake sits on a green tray with a subtle white vine pattern, placed on a white marbled surface. In the background, there is a small white plate with a dollop of frosting and an orange powder on top, as well as a beige cloth and a white textured cloth nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Swirl Recipe uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that pack a punch when combined. Each component plays a big role in delivering the bread’s tender texture, warm spice notes, and that irresistible cream cheese swirl that melts in your mouth.

Flour: Provides the base structure to hold everything together with a soft crumb.
Pumpkin puree: Adds moisture, natural sweetness, and that signature vibrant orange color.
Sugar: Sweetens the bread and helps it caramelize lightly during baking.
Oil: Keeps the bread tender and moist, preventing it from drying out.
Eggs: Bind the batter and add richness for a smooth, sturdy loaf.
Cinnamon and nutmeg: Bring warmth and a cozy autumn aroma to every slice.
Baking soda: Gives the bread a nice lift without making it too cakey.
Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
Cream cheese (softened): The star of the swirl, providing tangy creaminess.
Vanilla extract: Adds a sweet, aromatic depth to the cream cheese filling.

How to Make Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Swirl Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan thoroughly to ensure the bread releases easily after baking. This step is simple, but critical for a perfect loaf shape.

Step 2: Mix the Cream Cheese Filling

In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. This sweet filling will swirl beautifully through the pumpkin batter, giving you that dreamy cream cheese ribbon in every slice.

Step 3: Combine the Pumpkin Bread Batter

In a separate large bowl, whisk together the flour, pumpkin puree, sugar, oil, eggs, cinnamon, nutmeg, baking soda, and a pinch of salt. Stir just until you have a smooth batter—overmixing can toughen the bread, so keep it gentle.

Step 4: Layer and Swirl

Pour half of the pumpkin batter into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing it out evenly. Next, dollop and gently spread the cream cheese filling on top, avoiding the edges so the layers stay nice and distinct. Then, pour the remaining pumpkin batter over the cream cheese and spread evenly. For an extra touch, you can swirl the top layer slightly with a knife to create a marbled effect.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden

Bake for 55 to 65 minutes, checking for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the bread (try to avoid the cream cheese swirl area). If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, your bread is ready! Let it cool in the pan for about 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

How to Serve Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Swirl Recipe

The image shows a loaf of carrot cake with two slices cut and laid in front of it. The cake has a dense, moist texture with a warm brown color and small bits of carrot throughout. It is covered with a thick layer of smooth white cream cheese frosting on top and between the slices, creating a creamy contrast against the brown cake. The cake sits on a wooden cutting board with a knife beside it. The background is a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of vanilla or maple glaze adds a lovely finishing touch that makes this pumpkin bread look as good as it tastes. Toasted pecans or walnuts on top before baking also add an irresistible crunch.

Side Dishes

This bread pairs beautifully with a steaming cup of coffee or chai tea, making it the perfect morning pick-me-up. For an indulgent dessert, serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to heighten the creamy experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Try slicing the bread thick and lightly toasting it before serving—this enhances its aroma and texture. You can also cut it into mini loaves or muffins for gifting or sharing at holiday parties. Wrapping individual slices in parchment paper tied with twine makes a charming homemade treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once completely cooled, keep your pumpkin bread wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container. Refrigeration is best to preserve the cream cheese swirl’s freshness, and it will keep well for up to 4 days.

Freezing

This Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Swirl Recipe freezes wonderfully. Wrap the loaf securely in both plastic wrap and foil or place wrapped slices in freezer bags. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying.

Reheating

Warm slices gently in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds or pop them in a toaster oven for a few minutes. This revives the bread’s moist texture and makes the cream cheese filling delightfully soft again.

FAQs

Can I use canned pumpkin puree for this recipe?

Absolutely! Canned pumpkin puree works perfectly and helps achieve that smooth, moist texture without any extra effort. Just make sure you use pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling, which is sweetened and spiced.

What can I substitute for cream cheese in the swirl?

If you want a dairy-free option, try using a vegan cream cheese or a blend of coconut cream with a bit of sweetener and vanilla extract. The texture and tang will be slightly different but still delicious.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking, you can enjoy this bread gluten-free. Just ensure the blend includes xanthan gum or another binder for the best crumb.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to the batter?

Definitely! Chopped walnuts, pecans, or even dark chocolate chips make wonderful additions to the pumpkin batter, adding extra texture and flavor that complements the cream cheese filling.

How do I know when the bread is done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the pumpkin batter portion of the bread; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s baked through. Avoid poking the cream cheese layer, as it tends to remain moist.

Final Thoughts

This Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Swirl Recipe is more than just a baked good — it’s a warm hug on a plate that brings joy with every slice. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving a taste of fall, this loaf is sure to become a beloved staple. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and make some magic happen in your kitchen today!