Let me tell you, the scent of fresh blueberries mingling with creamy cheese wafting from my oven is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. The first time I baked this Moist Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread, it was a chilly spring morning, and honestly, the kind of moment where you pause, take a deep breath, and just smile because you know you’re onto something truly special. When I was knee-high to a grasshopper, my grandma used to make quick breads, but none quite like this one—it’s got that perfect balance of sweet and tangy with a texture that’s downright dangerous in the best way.
I stumbled upon this recipe on a rainy weekend years ago, trying to recreate that nostalgic comfort with a little twist. My family couldn’t stop sneaking slices off the cooling rack (and I can’t really blame them). It’s become a staple for our Easter brunch, potlucks, and those mornings when you want a cozy treat without the fuss. You know what? This Moist Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread feels like a warm hug in loaf form, and you’re going to want to bookmark this one.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
After testing this Moist Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread more times than I can count (in the name of research, of course), I can say it ticks all the boxes for a crowd-pleaser. Here’s why it’s earned a permanent spot in my recipe collection:
- Quick & Easy: Comes together in under 45 minutes, perfect for busy mornings or last-minute Easter plans.
- Simple Ingredients: No fancy trips to specialty stores—just pantry staples and fresh blueberries.
- Perfect for Easter: A bright and beautiful quick bread that brings a festive touch to your table.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Gets rave reviews from kids and adults alike, always disappearing fast.
- Unbelievably Delicious: The creamy cheese center adds moisture and a slight tang that sets it apart from your average sweet bread.
What makes this recipe stand out is the creative swirl of cream cheese right in the middle, which keeps the bread moist and adds that dreamy texture. It’s not just another blueberry bread—it’s the kind that makes you close your eyes after the first bite. Honestly, it’s comfort food reimagined: simple, satisfying, and perfectly suited for making memories.
What Ingredients You Will Need
This Moist Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread uses simple, wholesome ingredients to deliver bold flavor and satisfying texture without the fuss. Most of these are pantry staples, with fresh blueberries bringing that pop of natural sweetness.
- For the Bread Batter:
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour (sifted for best texture)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled (I like using Kerrygold for richness)
- ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk (for tang and moisture; you can substitute with milk + 1 tsp lemon juice)
- 1 ½ cups (225g) fresh blueberries (frozen works too, just don’t thaw)
- For the Cream Cheese Swirl:
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened (Philadelphia brand is my go-to)
- ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (adds a fresh zing)
If you want a gluten-free option, you can swap the all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking blend. For a dairy-free twist, try coconut cream cheese and almond milk instead of buttermilk.
Equipment Needed
- 9×5-inch (23×13 cm) loaf pan (non-stick or lined with parchment paper)
- Mixing bowls (preferably one large and one medium)
- Electric mixer or hand whisk (the electric mixer makes the cream cheese swirl easier)
- Measuring cups and spoons (accurate measurements make a big difference!)
- Spatula and wooden spoon for folding ingredients gently
- Cooling rack for letting the bread rest after baking
If you don’t have an electric mixer, no worries! A sturdy whisk and some elbow grease will do just fine. For the loaf pan, I recommend silicone-lined pans if you want an easy release and less cleanup. And hey, keeping your cream cheese at room temperature is key—makes mixing so much smoother.
Preparation Method

- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal. This step sets you up for success.
- Prepare the cream cheese swirl: In a medium bowl, beat together 8 oz softened cream cheese, ¼ cup sugar, 1 egg, and 1 teaspoon lemon zest until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
- Mix dry ingredients for the bread: In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, ½ teaspoon baking soda, and ¼ teaspoon salt. This helps even distribution and avoids lumps.
- Combine wet ingredients: In another bowl or large measuring cup, whisk melted butter, sugar, 2 eggs, vanilla extract, and buttermilk until well combined. The melted butter adds moistness, so don’t skip it!
- Fold wet into dry: Add wet ingredients to dry and gently fold with a spatula until just combined. Overmixing can toughen the bread, so keep it light and airy.
- Add blueberries: Carefully fold in the fresh blueberries, making sure they’re evenly distributed but not crushed.
- Layer the batter and cream cheese: Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Dollop the cream cheese mixture evenly over the batter, then spread gently with a spatula. Top with the remaining batter and smooth the surface.
- Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. Insert a toothpick in the center—if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, it’s done. The cream cheese swirl might be soft, but the bread should be set.
- Cool: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents sogginess and helps the bread hold its shape.
Pro tip: If you notice the top browning too fast, tent it loosely with foil halfway through baking. And if your blueberries sink to the bottom, toss them lightly in flour before folding into the batter next time.
Cooking Tips & Techniques
Let’s face it, even the best recipes can go sideways without a little know-how. Here are some tips I’ve learned to keep your Moist Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread perfect every time:
- Room temperature ingredients matter: Eggs and cream cheese at room temp mix better, giving you that smooth swirl without lumps.
- Don’t overmix the batter: Overdoing it develops gluten and makes the bread dense. Fold gently until combined.
- Fresh vs. frozen blueberries: Fresh give the best texture, but frozen works if you keep them frozen until folding to avoid blue streaks.
- Watch your oven: Oven temperatures vary widely. I recommend starting to check your bread at 50 minutes to avoid overbaking.
- Use a light hand layering the cream cheese: Don’t press it too hard or it’ll sink too much, but don’t just plop it either—spread gently for an even swirl.
- Multitasking tip: While the bread bakes, clean up the bowls and prepare your serving plates. Saves time and keeps the kitchen less chaotic.
One time, I forgot to cool the cream cheese and ended up with lumps in the swirl—lesson learned the hard way! Also, using parchment paper in the loaf pan is a game changer for removing the bread cleanly.
Variations & Adaptations
This recipe is super flexible, so feel free to make it your own. Here are some ways I’ve switched it up with great results:
- Seasonal fruit swap: In summer, try fresh raspberries or chopped strawberries instead of blueberries for a fresh twist.
- Gluten-free option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. It holds up well with the moisture from the cream cheese.
- Chocolate lovers: Add ½ cup mini chocolate chips to the batter or swirl melted chocolate with the cream cheese for a decadent touch.
- Dairy-free adaptation: Use almond or coconut cream cheese and substitute buttermilk with plant-based milk plus lemon juice.
- Spiced version: Add ½ teaspoon cinnamon and a pinch of nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a warm, cozy flavor.
Personally, I once tried swapping the cream cheese for mascarpone, and it turned out luxuriously rich—worth a try if you want to impress!
Serving & Storage Suggestions
This bread is best served slightly warm or at room temperature. I love slicing it thick and pairing it with a smear of butter or a drizzle of honey. It also pairs beautifully with a cup of strong coffee or a light herbal tea—perfect for a spring brunch or Easter morning.
To store, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, slice and freeze individual pieces wrapped in foil or parchment paper, then place in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Reheat frozen slices gently in the toaster or oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes. The flavors actually deepen a bit after a day or two, making leftovers even more delicious if you can wait that long.
Nutritional Information & Benefits
Each slice of this Moist Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread offers a satisfying mix of macronutrients. Blueberries bring antioxidants and vitamin C, while cream cheese adds protein and calcium. Using buttermilk contributes beneficial probiotics and tang.
This recipe is moderate in calories and can fit into a balanced diet as an occasional treat. It is not gluten-free by default but can be adapted easily. The bread contains dairy and eggs, so keep that in mind for allergies.
From my wellness perspective, I love recipes like this because they combine simple, real ingredients without any weird additives. It’s a way to enjoy sweetness without overindulgence, and honestly, it feels wholesome enough to enjoy every so often without guilt.
Conclusion
If you’re on the lookout for a quick bread recipe that’s both comforting and a little bit special, this Moist Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread is definitely worth your time. It’s got that nostalgic feel with a fresh twist, and the cream cheese swirl makes it stand out from the crowd. I encourage you to try it as is or experiment with your favorite variations—there’s plenty of room to make it your own.
Honestly, this bread holds a special place in my heart because it brings family and friends together, warm and happy around the table. So, what are you waiting for? Give it a go, and don’t forget to share your experience—I’d love to hear how it turned out for you!
FAQs
Can I use frozen blueberries instead of fresh?
Yes! Just keep the blueberries frozen until you fold them into the batter to prevent bleeding and sogginess.
How do I store leftover blueberry cream cheese bread?
Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze slices for up to 3 months.
Can I make this bread dairy-free?
Absolutely. Substitute cream cheese and buttermilk with dairy-free alternatives like almond or coconut-based products.
What’s the best way to prevent the cream cheese from sinking?
Spread the cream cheese mixture gently over the batter and avoid pressing it down too hard. Also, don’t overmix the batter to keep it light.
Can I double this recipe for two loaves?
You sure can! Just double all ingredients and bake in two loaf pans separately to ensure even cooking.
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Moist Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread
A quick and easy moist blueberry bread with a creamy cheese swirl, perfect for Easter brunch or cozy mornings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
- Total Time: 65-75 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (about 8-10 servings) 1x
- Category: Quick Bread
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour (sifted for best texture)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
- ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk (or milk + 1 tsp lemon juice)
- 1 ½ cups (225g) fresh blueberries (frozen works too, just don’t thaw)
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
- Prepare the cream cheese swirl: In a medium bowl, beat together 8 oz softened cream cheese, ¼ cup sugar, 1 egg, and 1 teaspoon lemon zest until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
- Mix dry ingredients for the bread: In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, ½ teaspoon baking soda, and ¼ teaspoon salt.
- Combine wet ingredients: In another bowl, whisk melted butter, sugar, 2 eggs, vanilla extract, and buttermilk until well combined.
- Fold wet into dry: Add wet ingredients to dry and gently fold with a spatula until just combined.
- Add blueberries: Carefully fold in the fresh blueberries, making sure they’re evenly distributed but not crushed.
- Layer the batter and cream cheese: Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Dollop the cream cheese mixture evenly over the batter, then spread gently with a spatula. Top with the remaining batter and smooth the surface.
- Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. Insert a toothpick in the center—if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, it’s done.
- Cool: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
Use room temperature eggs and cream cheese for smooth mixing. Avoid overmixing the batter to keep the bread light and tender. If top browns too fast, tent with foil halfway through baking. Toss blueberries in flour before folding to prevent sinking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (about 1/10t
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 18
- Sodium: 220
- Fat: 14
- Saturated Fat: 8
- Carbohydrates: 34
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 5
Keywords: blueberry bread, cream cheese swirl, quick bread, Easter bread, moist bread, blueberry cream cheese bread, easy bread recipe



