Dessert

Lemon Cream Cheese Swirl Bread Recipe

BySana Jeannette January 8, 2026January 8, 2026

Introduction

Lemon Cream Cheese Bread is a moist and tangy treat that combines zesty lemon flavor with a rich cream cheese swirl. Perfect for breakfast or a delightful snack, this bread is both refreshing and satisfying.

A close-up view of a single-layer square cake with a soft, golden-brown crust on top that has cracks revealing a creamy, light-yellow filling underneath. The texture of the filling looks smooth and slightly custard-like, contrasting with the fluffy, pale base layer that forms the bottom part of the cake. The cake sits on a white marbled surface next to a lemon slice that adds a fresh, bright yellow accent to the image. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 cup sugar
3 eggs

8 oz sour cream
½ cup canola oil

Zest of 2 lemons
Juice of 1 lemon

1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 ½ cups flour
2 ½ teaspoons baking powder

1 teaspoon salt
1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
⅓ cup powdered sugar

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F and grease a standard loaf pan to prevent sticking.
Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the sugar, eggs, sour cream, lemon zest, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and canola oil. Mix until the batter is smooth and well blended.
Step 3: In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt for an even texture.

Step 4: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until fully combined. Set the batter aside.
Step 5: For the cream cheese swirl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together in a small bowl until smooth and creamy.
Step 6: Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Spoon half of the cream cheese mixture on top and use a knife to gently swirl it through the batter.

Step 7: Add the remaining batter on top, then spoon the rest of the cream cheese mixture over it. Swirl again carefully to create a marbled effect.
Step 8: Bake the bread for 65-70 minutes. Cover the top with foil during the last 20-30 minutes to prevent over-browning.
Step 9: Let the bread cool completely before slicing to allow the cream cheese swirl to set properly.

Tips & Variations

Use fresh lemon zest and juice for the brightest flavor. If you like, add a teaspoon of lemon extract to enhance the citrus notes.
You can substitute canola oil with melted butter for a richer taste.
For a more decorative swirl, use a toothpick or skewer to create finer marbling patterns.

Try adding a handful of blueberries or poppy seeds to the batter for a fruity twist.

Storage

Store the lemon cream cheese bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep it refrigerated for up to a week or freeze wrapped tightly for up to 3 months. Reheat slices gently in the microwave to restore softness.

How to Serve

A close-up of three stacked slices of moist pound cake with a golden brown crust, showing a soft, pale yellow interior with a slightly dense texture. The top slice reveals a light, creamy section in the middle, and the rough crust edges highlight the cake's baked texture. The slices rest on crinkled white parchment paper, placed on a white marbled background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use low-fat cream cheese for the swirl?

Yes, low-fat cream cheese can be used, but the swirl may be less rich and slightly less creamy.

How can I tell when the bread is fully baked?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the bread; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached. The bread should also spring back slightly when pressed.