Description
Bright, zesty, and perfectly creamy, this Luscious Lemon Cream Cheese Loaf combines the tang of fresh lemons with the richness of a smooth cream cheese swirl. It’s a show-stopping treat perfect for dessert, brunch, or tea time!
Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 8 oz sour cream
- ½ cup canola oil
- Zest from 2 lemons
- Juice from 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- ⅓ cup powdered sugar
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and grease a standard loaf pan.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk sugar, eggs, sour cream, canola oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Prepare Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, sift flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Combine Mixtures: Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined.
- Cream Cheese Mixture: Beat cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth.
- Layer Batter: Pour half the batter into the loaf pan, dollop half the cream cheese mixture on top, and gently swirl with a knife. Repeat with remaining batter and cream cheese.
- Bake: Bake for 65-70 minutes, covering with foil if the top browns too quickly. Check doneness with a toothpick.
- Cool: Let the loaf cool completely before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure eggs, sour cream, and cream cheese are at room temperature for the best texture.
- Avoid Overmixing: Mix just until combined to prevent a dense loaf.
- Storage Tips: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 65 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American