Lemon Cream Cheese Swirl Bread

Lemon Cream Cheese Swirl Bread is one of the most irresistible quick breads you’ll ever bake.
This recipe delivers a perfect balance of bright lemon flavor, rich cream cheese, and a buttery, moist crumb that melts in your mouth.
Whether you serve it warm for breakfast, as a brunch centerpiece, or as a sweet dessert loaf, this citrusy bread is guaranteed to become a family favorite.

With a vibrant lemon base and a decadent cream cheese swirl running through the loaf like cheesecake, each slice is tender, tangy, creamy, and ultra-satisfying.

  Why You’ll Love This Lemon Bread

• Bright & Refreshing: Fresh lemon zest and juice bring a natural citrus punch.
• Moist & Tender: Sour cream keeps it soft without being heavy.
• Cheesecake-Like Swirl: The cream cheese layer adds decadence.
• Easy to Make: No mixers or fancy equipment needed.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Breakfast, dessert, or gifting.

  Ingredients

For the Lemon Bread:

• 1 cup sugar
• 3 eggs
• 8 oz sour cream
• 1/2 cup canola oil
• Zest of 2 lemons
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp salt

For the Cream Cheese Swirl:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/3 cup powdered sugar

  Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Oven & Pan

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a standard loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together:

• Sugar
• Eggs
• Sour cream
• Oil
• Lemon zest & juice
• Vanilla extract

Mix until smooth and well-combined.

Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Add to the wet mixture and stir gently until combined (do not overmix).

Step 4: Make the Cream Cheese Mixture

In a small bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar until creamy.

Step 5: Assemble the Swirl Bread

1. Pour half the lemon batter into the loaf pan.
2. Add half the cream cheese mixture and swirl gently with a knife.
3. Add the rest of the batter.
4. Add remaining cream cheese mixture and swirl again.

Step 6: Bake

Bake for 65–70 minutes. Cover with foil for the last 20–30 minutes to prevent too much browning.

Insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean (except for cream cheese), the bread is done.

  Tips for the Best Lemon Cream Cheese Swirl Bread

• Use fresh lemons—they make all the difference.
• Do not overmix the batter; it keeps the bread soft.
• Let the bread cool fully before slicing for clean swirls.
• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

  Serving Suggestions

• Warm with a cup of coffee.
• Serve with whipped cream for dessert.
• Add powdered sugar on top for a bakery-style finish.

  Printable Summary

Moist, tangy, creamy, and beautifully swirled — this Lemon Cream Cheese Swirl Bread is guaranteed to impress every time!