If you are on the hunt for a delightfully moist and flavorful treat that combines the sweetness of fresh strawberries with the rich creaminess of a tangy cheese swirl, look no further than this Fresh Strawberry Cream Cheese Bread Recipe. Each slice bursts with the vibrant taste of fresh fruit paired harmoniously with a luscious cream cheese layer that beautifully balances the bread’s tender crumb. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon pick-me-up, this bread will quickly become one of your favorite homemade sweets to share with family and friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is the secret behind how incredibly delicious this bread turns out. Every component plays an essential role, from the soft butter that ensures moistness, to the fresh strawberries that add natural sweetness and vibrant color, creating an irresistible loaf.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Provides moisture and richness, making the bread tender and soft.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the bread perfectly without overpowering the strawberries.
- 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients while adding structure and moisture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors with its warm aroma.
- 1/2 cup milk: Adds moisture making the crumb soft and fluffy.
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour: The base for the bread, creating a tender yet sturdy texture.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the loaf rise beautifully and stay light.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and intensifies flavors.
- 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, diced and tossed with 1 tablespoon flour: Bursts of freshness and natural sweetness while preventing them from sinking in the batter.
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened: For the luscious swirl that adds tangy creaminess.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for cream cheese mixture): Sweetens the cream cheese gently.
- 1 egg yolk: Helps the cream cheese swirl set to a smooth, rich texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (for cream cheese mixture): Adds depth and complements the fruit flavor perfectly.
How to Make Fresh Strawberry Cream Cheese Bread Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan well and then line it with parchment paper. This ensures your beautiful bread lifts out easily after baking without sticking or breaking.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is critical as it incorporates air, lending your bread an airy, tender texture that’s delightful with every bite.
Step 3: Add Eggs, Vanilla, and Milk
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to achieve a smooth batter. Then, stir in the vanilla extract and milk. These ingredients enrich the batter and help bind everything together.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients and Mix
In a separate bowl, whisk the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually sift this dry mixture into your wet batter, mixing gently just until combined. Overmixing can make the bread tough, so be careful!
Step 5: Fold in the Floured Strawberries
Gently fold the diced fresh strawberries that have been coated lightly with flour into the batter. This flour coating prevents the berries from sinking to the bottom, distributing fruity bursts of flavor evenly throughout the bread.
Step 6: Prepare the Cream Cheese Swirl
In a separate bowl, beat together softened cream cheese, sugar, egg yolk, and vanilla until completely smooth. This luscious cream cheese layer creates a beautiful contrast in both taste and texture.
Step 7: Layer and Swirl the Batter
Pour half of the strawberry bread batter into the prepared loaf pan, then spoon the cream cheese mixture over it. Top with the remaining bread batter and gently swirl through the layers with a knife to create a gorgeous marbled effect that looks as good as it tastes.
Step 8: Bake and Cool
Bake for 55 to 65 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Remove the loaf from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling fully helps the flavors to set perfectly and makes slicing easier.
How to Serve Fresh Strawberry Cream Cheese Bread Recipe
Garnishes
Serving this bread with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a few fresh strawberry slices on top instantly elevates its appearance and adds a fresh, inviting finish that will impress your guests before the first bite.
Side Dishes
This bread pairs wonderfully with a simple bowl of whipped cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt for breakfast. For dessert, a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of honey complements the strawberry cream cheese flavors beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Try slicing the bread into small squares and serving it on a dessert platter alongside fresh berries and mint leaves for a stunning brunch centerpiece. Alternatively, toast slices lightly and spread with more cream cheese or strawberry jam for sensory delight.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Fresh Strawberry Cream Cheese Bread Recipe wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for up to 4 days, making it perfect for easy breakfasts or snacks throughout the week.
Freezing
This bread freezes very well. Wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil before placing it in the freezer. Freeze for up to 3 months to enjoy the same wonderful flavor and texture whenever you want.
Reheating
To enjoy the bread fresh from the fridge or freezer, reheat individual slices gently in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or lightly toast slices until warm. This revives the softness and brings out the delicious cream cheese aroma.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Fresh strawberries work best for the texture and burst of flavor, but if you use frozen, make sure to thaw and drain them well, then toss them with flour before adding to the batter to prevent excess moisture.
Is it possible to make this bread dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the butter with plant-based margarine and use dairy-free cream cheese and milk alternatives like almond or oat milk to keep it creamy without dairy.
How do I know when the bread is fully baked?
Use a toothpick inserted into the center; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, the bread is done. If batter clings, continue baking and check again every 5 minutes.
Can I add other berries or fruits?
Absolutely! Blueberries, raspberries, or chopped peaches make excellent alternatives or additions to the strawberries, adjusting the flour toss accordingly to prevent sinking.
What’s the best way to slice the bread neatly?
Use a serrated knife and slice gently with a slow sawing motion. For cleaner slices, chill the bread in the fridge before cutting.
Final Thoughts
There is something undeniably heartwarming about homemade Fresh Strawberry Cream Cheese Bread Recipe. It invites you to slow down, savor, and share moments with those you care about most. I encourage you to try this recipe soon and experience all the joy and flavor it brings right from your own kitchen. You might just find it becoming a new family favorite!
Print
Fresh Strawberry Cream Cheese Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (8–10 slices)
- Category: Breakfast, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Fresh Strawberry Cream Cheese Bread is a delightful quick bread featuring juicy diced strawberries swirled with a sweetened cream cheese filling. This moist and tender loaf is perfect for breakfast or dessert, offering a beautiful marbled effect and a balance of fruity and creamy flavors.
Ingredients
For the Bread:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries (diced and tossed with 1 tablespoon flour)
For the Cream Cheese Swirl:
- 4 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg yolk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the bread.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which helps create a tender texture.
- Add Eggs and Flavorings: Add the eggs one at a time to the creamed mixture, mixing well after each addition to incorporate fully. Stir in the vanilla extract and milk for moisture and flavor.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening agent and seasoning.
- Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring just until combined to avoid overmixing, which can toughen the bread.
- Add Strawberries: Gently fold in the diced fresh strawberries that have been tossed with a tablespoon of flour; this prevents the fruit from sinking and distributes them evenly.
- Prepare Cream Cheese Swirl: In another bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, egg yolk, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Layer and Swirl: Pour half of the bread batter into the prepared loaf pan, then spoon the cream cheese mixture evenly over it. Top with the remaining batter and use a knife to swirl the cream cheese into the batter for a marbled effect.
- Bake: Bake for 55 to 65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, ensuring the bread is fully cooked.
- Cool: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it onto a wire rack to cool completely, which stops the cooking process and helps maintain texture.
Notes
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to maintain freshness and prevent spoilage.
- Before serving, bring the bread to room temperature or gently warm it to enhance the texture and flavor.
