Name: Cream Cheese-Filled Lemon Blueberry Loaf Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 large eggs; ¾ cup (150g) sugar; ½ cup (120g) unsalted butter, melted; ½ cup (125g) plain full-fat yogurt; Zest of 2 lemons; 1 Tablespoon lemon juice; 1 ½ cup (180g) all-purpose flour; 1 Tablespoon baking powder; 1 cup fresh blueberries; 8 ounces (220g) cream cheese, softened at room temperature; 2 Tablespoons sugar; 1 egg; 2 Tablespoons all-purpose flour

Print Recipe· 3.9 from 1 review

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There is something truly magical about a homemade loaf that combines bright, tangy lemon and sweet blueberries with a luscious, creamy center—this Cream Cheese-Filled Lemon Blueberry Loaf Recipe hits all those notes and then some. Imagine biting into a slice of moist, tender cake bursting with fruity freshness, then melting into that dreamy cream cheese layer right in the middle. It’s the kind of recipe that instantly feels like a warm hug and a celebration at the same time, perfect for breakfast, afternoon tea, or even a delightful dessert. Once you try this loaf, it’s hard not to make it your go-to sweet treat whenever you want to impress with minimal fuss but maximum flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows an arrangement of baking ingredients laid out on a white marbled surface, including three brown eggs gathered together on the top left, a small white bowl of white cream near the top center, and two bright yellow lemons positioned side by side on the top right. Below, a white bowl filled with dark blue, round blueberries is near the middle, beside a white bowl full of light brown sugar grains. On the lower left, there is a small metal measuring spoon containing white powder and next to it a white bowl filled with loose white flour. To the left of the flour is a pale yellow rectangular stick of butter, while on the lower right rests a block of cream-colored cheese and one brown egg. The setup is neat, colorful, and well spaced. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Each ingredient in this Cream Cheese-Filled Lemon Blueberry Loaf Recipe plays a starring role, creating a perfect harmony of flavors and textures. From the brightness of fresh lemon zest to the rich cream cheese filling, these simple staples come together beautifully to make a loaf that’s as stunning as it is delicious.

3 large eggs: Provide structure and richness, helping the loaf rise with a tender crumb.
¾ cup (150g) sugar: Sweetens the loaf just right, balancing lemon’s tartness perfectly.
½ cup (120g) unsalted butter, melted: Adds moistness and depth of flavor, while helping keep the loaf soft.
½ cup (125g) plain full-fat yogurt: Brings a subtle tang and keeps the loaf wonderfully moist.
Zest of 2 lemons: Infuses the batter with bright, fresh citrus aroma that shines in every bite.
1 tablespoon lemon juice: Enhances the lemon flavor and brightens up the overall loaf profile.
1 ½ cups (180g) all-purpose flour: Forms the base for the batter’s tender crumb.
1 tablespoon baking powder: Ensures the loaf rises beautifully and stays light.
1 cup fresh blueberries: Juicy bursts of sweetness scattered throughout the loaf for delightful surprises.
8 ounces (220g) cream cheese, softened: The luscious filling that makes this loaf irresistibly creamy.
2 tablespoons sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese filling without overpowering it.
1 egg: Binds the cream cheese filling to a smooth, spreadable texture.
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Helps stabilize the cream cheese filling so it stays perfectly in place.

How to Make Cream Cheese-Filled Lemon Blueberry Loaf Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C) is essential to get the loaf baking off just right. Grease your loaf pan thoroughly to prevent sticking and to ensure that beautiful golden crust that makes this Cream Cheese-Filled Lemon Blueberry Loaf Recipe so attractive.

Step 2: Whisk the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, yogurt, lemon juice, and melted butter. Combining these first helps create a smooth base that will give you that tender texture. It’s important that your melted butter isn’t too hot, so it won’t cook the eggs or cause the mixture to split.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients Separately

In another bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, and lemon zest. The zest adds vibrant flavor and a fresh scent that really makes this loaf sing. Adding dry ingredients separately helps maintain the perfect balance in texture and rise.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients and Fold in Blueberries

Gently add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Now, fold in fresh blueberries carefully using a rubber spatula. The goal here is to spread those juicy bites evenly without smashing the fruit—overmixing can turn your batter blue and affect the texture.

Step 5: Layer the Batter and Cream Cheese

Turn about two-thirds of the batter into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing it lightly so it fills the corners. Next, whip the cream cheese, sugar, egg, and flour until smooth and creamy, then pour this luscious filling over the batter layer. Finally, top with the remaining batter, smoothing gently to not disturb the cream cheese layer beneath.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake your loaf for 48 to 50 minutes until the top is golden and the center feels set to the touch. The aroma of lemon and blueberries filling your kitchen will make it nearly impossible to wait, but letting it cool slightly in the pan before inverting ensures clean slices with that gorgeous cream cheese center shining through.

How to Serve Cream Cheese-Filled Lemon Blueberry Loaf Recipe

A rectangular metal baking pan lined with white parchment paper holds a thick, pale yellow batter with small dark blueberries spread throughout. On top of the batter, in the center, is a smooth, lighter cream-colored layer that looks soft and creamy. The background is a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To make each slice of this loaf even more irresistible, consider a light dusting of powdered sugar or a few fresh blueberries on top. A thin lemon glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice can add a glossy, zesty finish that enhances the flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

This loaf pairs exquisitely with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert. For a breakfast or brunch spread, serve alongside fresh fruit, a cup of creamy yogurt, or a bright herbal tea to complement the loaf’s citrus and berry notes.

Creative Ways to Present

Looking to impress at your next gathering? Slice the loaf into petite, bite-sized squares and arrange them on a decorative platter with fresh lemon slices and mint leaves. You can also serve this loaf warm with a side of mascarpone cheese for an elegant twist that friends will rave about.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, keep your Cream Cheese-Filled Lemon Blueberry Loaf Recipe tightly covered in plastic wrap or an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If your kitchen is warm, storing it in the refrigerator helps maintain freshness, though the cake might firm up slightly.

Freezing

This loaf freezes wonderfully! Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or freeze in an airtight container for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best texture and flavor.

Reheating

To bring back that just-baked warmth, gently reheat slices in a microwave for about 15 to 20 seconds or warm briefly in a 300°F (150°C) oven. Avoid overheating to keep that creamy filling delightful and the crumb moist.

FAQs

Can I use frozen blueberries for this Cream Cheese-Filled Lemon Blueberry Loaf Recipe?

Yes, frozen blueberries can be used; just be sure to thaw and drain them well to prevent the batter from becoming too wet. Gently fold them in to avoid turning your batter blue.

What can I substitute for plain yogurt?

If you don’t have plain yogurt, sour cream or buttermilk are excellent alternatives that’ll keep the loaf moist and add a subtle tang.

How do I know when the loaf is fully baked?

The loaf is done when the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the batter portion (not the cream cheese layer) comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.

Can I make the cream cheese filling ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the cream cheese filling a few hours or even a day before and keep it refrigerated. Just give it a quick whisk before layering to ensure it’s smooth and easy to spread.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

This recipe relies on dairy for texture and flavor, but you can experiment with dairy-free cream cheese and yogurt alternatives. Be prepared for slight differences in texture and taste.

Final Thoughts

There is just something so special about this Cream Cheese-Filled Lemon Blueberry Loaf Recipe—it manages to feel both comfortingly familiar and excitingly fresh all at once. Whether you’re baking for a celebration, a cozy weekend treat, or simply because you deserve a slice of happiness, this loaf won’t disappoint. I can’t wait for you to try it and discover how delicious these bright, creamy flavors can be when perfectly woven together in one amazing cake.

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