Caramel Cream Cheese Bread

Fall baking has arrived in full force, and I couldn’t be happier about it. After a hot summer, I’ve barely wanted to turn on my oven, but now I’m wholeheartedly embracing the cooler temperatures with a stack of recipes I’m eager to try. At the top of my list was this caramel cream cheese bread, and let me tell you, it did not disappoint!

I’ve been a fan of the cream cheese loaf for quite some time. It’s essentially a variation of the classic pound cake, incorporating a generous amount of cream cheese to ensure your loaf cake is as rich as can be!

We’ve experimented with different fruit additions like cranberry and blueberry, but for fall, a thick layer of caramel just felt right! To enhance the autumnal vibes, I also snuck in some cinnamon, and let me tell you, this cake came together beautifully!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This caramel cream cheese bread is a delightful treat that combines the tangy richness of cream cheese with the sweet indulgence of caramel. It’s perfect for cozy fall gatherings or as a comforting dessert on a chilly evening. Plus, the hint of cinnamon adds a warm, aromatic touch that’s simply irresistible.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large mixing bowl
• Electric mixer or stand mixer
• Two 9×5-inch loaf pans
• Whisk
• Spatula
• Toothpick

Ingredients

• 2 cups flour
• 1 1/2 cups sugar
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, room temperature
• 1 (8 oz.) package cream cheese, room temperature
• 4 eggs, room temperature
• 1/2 cup caramel topping
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 ½ teaspoons cinnamon
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350º F. Lightly grease two 9×5-inch loaf pans with butter or non-stick spray.
2. In a large bowl or mixer, cream together the butter, cream cheese, and sugar. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon until combined.
4. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, stirring until just incorporated.
5. Pour ¼ of the batter into each greased baking dish. Spoon ¼ cup of caramel topping on top of the batter and swirl it gently, keeping it away from the edges of the pan.
6. Gently add the remaining batter on top of the caramel layers in each pan.
7. Place the pans in the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Remove from the oven and let cool before serving. Enjoy!

Tips for Success

• Ensure all your ingredients are at room temperature for the best texture and rise.
• Be careful not to overmix the batter to keep the bread tender.
• Swirl the caramel gently to create a marbled effect without mixing it into the batter completely.

Additional Tips and Variations

• Try adding chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts for added texture.
• Drizzle extra caramel over the top of the loaf before serving for an extra special touch.
• Experiment with different spices such as nutmeg or allspice for a unique flavor twist.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

This bread is rich and indulgent, offering a delightful blend of sweet and tangy flavors. While it’s a treat, the use of cream cheese adds some calcium and protein to the mix.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
A: Yes, but be sure to reduce the added salt in the recipe to balance the flavors.

Q: Can this bread be frozen?
A: Absolutely! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. It should last for up to 3 months.

Q: What can I substitute for caramel topping?
A: You can use dulce de leche or butterscotch sauce as alternatives.

Conclusion

This caramel cream cheese bread is a must-try for any fall baking enthusiast. It’s rich, flavorful, and perfect for sharing with friends and family. Give this recipe a try and let me know how it turns out in the comments below. Happy baking!