If you’re on the hunt for a luscious treat that perfectly balances fruity freshness with creamy richness, look no further than this Strawberry Cream Cheese Loaf Recipe. It’s an irresistibly moist loaf bursting with sweet strawberries and smooth cream cheese, delivering a lovely texture and flavor in every bite. Whether you’re enjoying it with your morning coffee or sharing it at a weekend brunch, this recipe is sure to become a beloved staple that brings joy with every slice.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Strawberry Cream Cheese Loaf Recipe calls for straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together effortlessly. Each one plays its part: the flour and leavening agents give structure; the butter and cream cheese add richness and moisture; while strawberries and strawberry jam infuse vibrant color and mouthwatering fruity notes.
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the perfect base to create a tender crumb.
- 1 tsp baking powder: Ensures the loaf rises beautifully and stays light.
- 1/2 tsp baking soda: Works alongside baking powder for an ideal texture.
- 1/4 tsp salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavor depth.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and a melt-in-your-mouth softness.
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened: Infuses the loaf with creamy tanginess and moisture.
- 1 cup sugar: Sweetens the loaf just right without overpowering.
- 2 large eggs: Bind ingredients and contribute to a tender crumb.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Brings warmth and depth to the flavor.
- 1/2 cup sour cream or yogurt: Adds moisture and slight tang to complement the cream cheese.
- 1/2 cup fresh strawberries, chopped: Brings juicy bursts of natural sweetness and lovely red flecks.
- 1/4 cup strawberry jam or preserves: Intensifies the strawberry flavor and keeps the loaf moist.
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar: For light dusting to finish the loaf elegantly.
- 1 tbsp fresh strawberries, finely chopped: Adds a fresh, pretty garnish.
How to Make Strawberry Cream Cheese Loaf Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your loaf bakes evenly from the moment it goes in. Grease and flour a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking, so your beautiful creation comes out effortlessly.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This simple step distributes all the leavening agents evenly, helping your loaf rise perfectly and develop a delicate crumb.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Cream Cheese
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until light and fluffy, about 2 to 3 minutes. This step is key to the loaf’s creamy texture and rich flavor, so take your time to get it just right.
Step 4: Add Sugar and Eggs
Next, add the sugar to the butter and cream cheese mix and beat until well combined. Then, add the eggs one at a time, beating thoroughly after each. Finally, stir in the vanilla extract, which adds a lovely homey aroma and depth of flavor.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the sour cream or yogurt. Start and end with the dry ingredients and mix gently just until combined. This careful folding ensures your loaf stays tender and moist without becoming dense.
Step 6: Fold in Strawberries and Jam
Gently fold in the chopped fresh strawberries along with the strawberry jam or preserves. These bursts of fruit bring vibrant flavor and moisture, so be gentle to keep the batter light and fluffy.
Step 7: Bake the Loaf
Pour the luscious batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 55 to 65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Your kitchen will fill with an irresistible aroma as this Strawberry Cream Cheese Loaf Recipe bakes to golden perfection.
Step 8: Cool Completely
Let the loaf cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This resting period helps the flavors meld and makes slicing easier without crumbling.
How to Serve Strawberry Cream Cheese Loaf Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance the loaf’s appearance and flavor by dusting it lightly with powdered sugar and sprinkling finely chopped fresh strawberries on top. This simple garnish adds a touch of elegance and highlights the strawberry theme.
Side Dishes
This loaf pairs beautifully with a spread of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat. A cup of hot tea or freshly brewed coffee also complements its sweet and creamy profile perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, consider slicing the loaf and layering it with cream cheese frosting and fresh strawberries to create mini strawberry shortcakes. You can also serve it alongside a bowl of mixed berries or atop a platter with other breakfast pastries for a festive brunch spread.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap the cooled strawberry cream cheese loaf tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It stays fresh at room temperature for up to two days or in the refrigerator for up to five days, keeping its moist texture and bright flavors.
Freezing
This Strawberry Cream Cheese Loaf Recipe freezes beautifully. Wrap individual slices or the whole loaf in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and keep it in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator.
Reheating
To revive the loaf’s softness and aroma, warm slices gently in a microwave for about 15-20 seconds or in a toaster oven at low heat. This will bring back that fresh-baked feeling with minimal effort.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries; just be sure to thaw and drain them well before folding into the batter to avoid excess moisture that could affect the texture.
Is it possible to substitute cream cheese with something else?
While cream cheese is key to this loaf’s signature texture, you can try mascarpone or ricotta as a substitute, but expect a slightly different flavor and consistency.
What can I use instead of sour cream or yogurt?
If you don’t have sour cream or yogurt, mayonnaise or buttermilk can be used as alternatives to keep the batter moist and tender.
How do I know when the loaf is done baking?
The best test is inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached, not wet batter.
Can I double the recipe to make two loaves?
Absolutely! Just double all ingredients and bake in two separate pans. Keep an eye on baking time as it might vary slightly depending on your oven and pan size.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting and exciting about baking a homemade Strawberry Cream Cheese Loaf Recipe and sharing it with loved ones. Its tender crumb, rich cream cheese flavor, and bright strawberry notes make every slice a little celebration. Give this recipe a try and watch it quickly become a household favorite—you’ll be amazed at how easily simple ingredients transform into such a delightful treat.
Print
Strawberry Cream Cheese Loaf Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf, serves 8 slices
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Strawberry Cream Cheese Loaf is a moist, flavorful quick bread bursting with fresh strawberries and a luscious cream cheese base. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet afternoon treat, this loaf combines the tangy cream cheese, sweet strawberry preserves, and fresh fruit for a delightful homemade dessert.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream or yogurt
Fruit and Toppings
- 1/2 cup fresh strawberries, chopped (or frozen strawberries)
- 1/4 cup strawberry jam or preserves
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar
- 1 tbsp fresh strawberries, finely chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agents and salt.
- Cream Butter and Cream Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter and cream cheese using an electric mixer until light, fluffy, and well combined, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add Sugar and Eggs: Gradually add the sugar to the butter and cream cheese mixture, beating until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to maintain a smooth batter. Stir in the vanilla extract for flavor.
- Incorporate Wet and Dry Ingredients: Alternately add the dry ingredients and sour cream (or yogurt) to the wet mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix gently until just combined to avoid overmixing, which can make the loaf dense.
- Add Strawberries and Jam: Gently fold in the chopped fresh strawberries and strawberry jam or preserves, carefully incorporating them without breaking down the fruit too much.
- Bake the Loaf: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely, which helps preserve its texture and flavor.
Notes
- For best results, use fresh strawberries but frozen can be used if fresh are unavailable, just make sure to thaw and drain excess moisture.
- Do not overmix the batter once adding dry ingredients to keep the loaf tender.
- Powdered sugar and finely chopped strawberries can be sprinkled on top as a garnish once cooled for an extra touch of sweetness and presentation.
- Store any leftovers wrapped tightly at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- This loaf freezes well – wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
