Love the taste of fall? Joanna Gaines Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bread gives you that cozy vibe in every bite. Imagine warm spices and creamy filling combining in a perfectly baked loaf, ideal for chilly days. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the simple steps and tips to create this delightful treat. Let’s get started on making a loaf that everyone will love!
Ingredients
Detailed Ingredient List
– 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– ½ teaspoon baking powder
– ½ teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
– ½ teaspoon ground ginger
– 1 cup pumpkin puree (canned or fresh)
– ½ cup granulated sugar
– ½ cup brown sugar, packed
– ½ cup vegetable oil
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1 egg yolk
– 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for the cream cheese filling)
This list has all you need to make Joanna Gaines’ Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bread. Each ingredient plays a role in creating a moist, flavorful bread.
The all-purpose flour gives the bread its structure. Baking soda and baking powder help it rise. Salt balances the sweetness, while spices add warmth and depth. Pumpkin puree brings moisture and a lovely flavor.
The two types of sugar, granulated and brown, add sweetness and a hint of caramel. Vegetable oil keeps the bread moist. Eggs bind everything together and add richness.
The cream cheese filling adds a special touch. It makes each bite creamy and delicious. The powdered sugar sweetens the filling, while vanilla extract enhances the flavor.
Gather these ingredients, and you are ready to bake!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Oven and Pan
– Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
– Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan. Use butter or cooking spray for best results.
Mixing the Dry Ingredients
– In a medium bowl, whisk together:
– 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– ½ teaspoon baking powder
– ½ teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
– ½ teaspoon ground ginger
Combining the Wet Ingredients
– In a large bowl, mix together:
– 1 cup pumpkin puree
– ½ cup granulated sugar
– ½ cup brown sugar, packed
– ½ cup vegetable oil
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Forming the Batter
– Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mix.
– Stir gently until just combined.
– It’s okay if a few lumps remain; do not overmix.
Making the Cream Cheese Filling
– In a separate bowl, blend:
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1 egg yolk
– 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Mix until smooth and creamy.
Creating the Layers
– Pour half of the pumpkin batter into the greased loaf pan.
– Spread it evenly.
– Spoon the cream cheese mix over the batter.
– Gently swirl it with a knife.
– Pour the remaining pumpkin batter on top, fully covering the cream cheese.
Baking Instructions
– Bake in the preheated oven for 55-65 minutes.
– Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center.
– It should come out clean when the bread is done.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Texture
To get the best texture, avoid overmixing the batter. When you mix the wet and dry ingredients, stir gently. A few lumps are fine. If you mix too much, the bread can turn out tough. The goal is a light and tender loaf.
Enhancing Flavor
You can adjust the spices to make the bread your own. If you love cinnamon, add a bit more. You can also try adding a pinch of cloves for warmth. If you want a spicier kick, increase the ginger. Taste as you go and find your perfect blend.
Storage and Serving Recommendations
To keep leftover bread fresh, wrap it well in plastic wrap. Store it at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, put it in the fridge, but it may dry out a bit. You can also freeze slices. Just wrap them in foil and place in a freezer bag. Thaw them at room temperature before serving. Enjoy with a warm drink for a cozy treat!
Variations
Dietary Modifications
You can easily make Joanna Gaines’ Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bread gluten-free. Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour. This blend often includes rice flour and starches, which work well in quick breads. For a dairy-free version, substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative. Make sure to check the labels for any hidden dairy ingredients. These swaps keep the taste and texture delicious!
Flavor Variations
There are many ways to add new flavors. You can mix in chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for a crunchy bite. Chocolate chips add sweetness and richness, making the bread even more indulgent. If you want a fruity twist, try adding dried cranberries. They give a nice tart contrast to the sweet bread. Each of these options creates a unique twist while keeping the spirit of the recipe.
Seasonal Additions
This bread is perfect for fall. You can add spices like cloves or allspice for extra warmth. Consider mixing in apple or pear chunks for a fruity kick. You can also toss in a handful of raisins or pumpkin seeds for added texture. Each of these seasonal add-ins makes the bread feel fresh and festive, enhancing the cozy vibe of this delightful treat.
Storage Info
How to Store Homemade Bread
To keep your Joanna Gaines pumpkin cream cheese bread fresh, store it properly. First, let the bread cool completely on a wire rack. Once cool, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This keeps moisture in and prevents drying out. You can also place it in an airtight container. A bread box works well too. This method helps maintain its soft texture and rich flavor.
Freezing Instructions
If you want to save some for later, freezing works great! First, slice the bread after it cools. Then, wrap each slice in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag or container. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. To thaw, simply take out a slice and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. You can also use a microwave for a quick thaw. Just heat for about 10-15 seconds.
Shelf Life
This delicious bread stays fresh for about 3 to 4 days at room temperature. If stored in the fridge, it can last up to a week. When frozen, it keeps well for up to 3 months. Just remember, the longer it sits, the more flavor it may change. Enjoy your bread while it’s at its best!
FAQs
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin. Start with about 2 cups of raw pumpkin. Cut the pumpkin, remove the seeds, and roast it until soft. Then, scoop out the flesh and puree it. This adds a fresh taste but requires extra work. You may need to adjust moisture since fresh pumpkin may differ in water content compared to canned.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make this bread vegan, replace the eggs. Use one flax egg for each egg. Mix one tablespoon of ground flaxseed with three tablespoons of water. Let it sit until thick. Swap cream cheese for a vegan alternative. Use coconut cream or any plant-based cream cheese. This keeps the recipe creamy and delightful.
What to do if my bread is too dense?
If your bread is dense, it may be overmixed. Stir the batter gently until just combined. Also, check your leavening agents. Make sure your baking soda and baking powder are fresh. If your bread sinks, it could be from too much moisture. Reduce the pumpkin puree by a few tablespoons next time.
Can this be made in mini loaves?
Yes, you can bake mini loaves. Use a mini loaf pan and adjust the baking time. Bake for about 25 to 30 minutes. Check for doneness with a toothpick. The toothpick should come out clean. Mini loaves make great gifts and are fun to share.
This blog post covered everything you need to know to make delicious pumpkin bread. We discussed key ingredients, from spices to cream cheese, and outlined the clear steps to follow. Achieving the perfect texture and flavor takes some care, but it’s worth it. Remember, you can customize this bread with various nuts or even make it vegan. Store leftovers properly for the best taste. With these tips and tricks, you’re set to impress friends and family with your baking skills. Enjoy your time in the kitchen!
