Orange Cream Cheese Bread: A Sweet and Tangy Delight
Orange cream cheese bread combines the vibrant flavor of citrus with the creamy richness of cream cheese, making it a perfect treat for breakfast, afternoon tea, or dessert. This moist, slightly tangy loaf is incredibly versatile, easy to make, and guaranteed to impress your family and friends.
For those who enjoy comforting baked goods, check out this Kentucky Butter Cake, another rich and buttery favorite perfect for any occasion.
Why You Should Try Orange Cream Cheese Bread
The combination of tangy orange zest and sweet, creamy cheese creates a loaf that’s both refreshing and indulgent. The soft texture, balanced with the subtle tartness of the cream cheese, makes this bread stand out as a crowd-pleaser for all ages. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast option or a sweet snack, this bread fits the bill.
Orange cream cheese bread is also:
- Easy to make: Simple ingredients and minimal prep make this a breeze for bakers of any skill level.
- Versatile: Enjoy it plain, with a light glaze, or with added nuts or chocolate chips for a twist.
- Perfect for sharing: It’s a great dish to bring to brunch, a potluck, or as a gift to friends and neighbors.
If you’re looking for more citrus-flavored treats, don’t miss the recipe for Orange Creamsicle Moonshine—a delightful drink that pairs wonderfully with this bread.
Ingredients for Orange Cream Cheese Bread
Here are the key ingredients needed to make a classic orange cream cheese bread:
- Cream Cheese: Adds creaminess and richness.
- Orange Zest and Juice: The zest gives an intense citrus flavor, while the juice adds moisture.
- All-Purpose Flour: Forms the base of the bread.
- Butter: Adds moisture and flavor to the bread.
- Sugar: Sweetens the loaf, balancing the tang of the orange and cream cheese.
- Eggs: Helps bind the ingredients and adds richness.
- Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor.
- Baking Powder and Baking Soda: Ensures the bread rises properly.
- Optional: Glaze made from powdered sugar and orange juice, or nuts for added texture.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Orange Cream Cheese Bread
1. Prepare the Ingredients
Step 1: Prepare the oranges
- Zest 2 medium oranges, making sure to avoid the bitter white pith.
- Juice the oranges, ensuring you have about 1/4 cup of fresh orange juice.
Step 2: Soften the cream cheese and butter
Allow the cream cheese and butter to come to room temperature for easier mixing.
2. Make the Batter
Step 3: Cream the butter, cream cheese, and sugar
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the butter, cream cheese, and sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This process usually takes about 3-4 minutes. The air incorporated during this step will help the bread rise and achieve a tender crumb.
Step 4: Add wet ingredients
Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the orange zest, juice, and vanilla extract. Continue mixing until everything is well incorporated.
Step 5: Combine the dry ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and baking soda. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a denser loaf.
3. Bake the Bread
Step 6: Prepare the loaf pan
Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or non-stick spray. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
Step 7: Bake the bread
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the bread for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top of the bread starts to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil during the last 15 minutes of baking.
Step 8: Cool the bread
Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Glazing the Orange Cream Cheese Bread
Optional: Make the orange glaze
While the bread cools, prepare the glaze by mixing powdered sugar and fresh orange juice until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled bread for an added layer of sweetness and citrus flavor.
If you prefer a variation without glaze, try serving the bread with butter or a simple dusting of powdered sugar for a more subtle sweetness.
Popular Variations of Orange Cream Cheese Bread
Here are some fun ways to customize your orange cream cheese bread:
1. Cranberry Orange Cream Cheese Bread
Add 1 cup of dried or fresh cranberries to the batter before baking. The tartness of the cranberries pairs perfectly with the sweet orange flavor.
2. Chocolate Chip Orange Cream Cheese Bread
Mix in 3/4 cup of chocolate chips to the batter for a decadent twist. The combination of chocolate and orange is irresistible.
3. Gluten-Free Orange Cream Cheese Bread
Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour to make the bread suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
4. Vegan Orange Cream Cheese Bread
To make this bread vegan-friendly, substitute the butter and cream cheese with plant-based alternatives and use flax eggs (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons of water equals 1 egg).
For a fun vegan dessert option, try this Vegan Pineapple Coconut Cake, which features tropical flavors in a rich, plant-based cake.
Nutritional Information
Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown for one slice of orange cream cheese bread (based on 12 servings per loaf):
- Calories: 250-280
- Fat: 12-14g
- Carbohydrates: 34-36g
- Protein: 4-6g
For those looking to enjoy this bread with a bit more health-consciousness, consider the following substitutions:
Healthier Substitutes
- Reduce Sugar: Cut the sugar by 25% or replace with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup.
- Swap Flour: Use whole wheat flour for added fiber, or blend with all-purpose flour for a balance.
- Greek Yogurt: Substitute half of the cream cheese with Greek yogurt to lower the fat content and add a slight tang.
FAQs About Orange Cream Cheese Bread
1. Can I freeze orange cream cheese bread?
Yes, orange cream cheese bread freezes beautifully. Wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. To serve, thaw at room temperature.
2. How do I store orange cream cheese bread?
Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to a week.
3. Can I use bottled orange juice instead of fresh?
While fresh orange juice provides the best flavor, bottled juice can be used in a pinch. Just make sure it’s 100% juice with no added sugars.
4. What can I add to the bread for extra flavor?
You can add a variety of mix-ins such as chopped nuts, dried fruit, or even a swirl of cinnamon for a unique twist on the traditional recipe.
Conclusion
Orange cream cheese bread is a delightful recipe that’s easy to make and guaranteed to impress. Whether you serve it for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, its bright citrus flavor and creamy texture make it an instant hit. Try experimenting with the variations listed above or enjoy the classic version as is. Either way, you’re in for a treat!
For more baking inspiration, don’t miss our recipe for Dorito Chicken Casserole—a savory, cheesy dish that’s perfect for dinner after enjoying a slice of this sweet bread.
