Lemon Cream Cheese Bread

### Instructions:

#### 1. **Prepare the Oven and Pan:**
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

#### 2. **Mix Wet Ingredients:**
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, butter, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This can be done using an electric mixer or by hand with a whisk. The goal is to incorporate air into the mixture to create a light, tender crumb in the bread.

Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Make sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice. The mixture should be smooth and well-combined.

#### 3. **Combine Dry Ingredients:**
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. This ensures the leavening agents are evenly distributed and helps prevent any lumps in the batter.

#### 4. **Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients:**
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a denser bread. The batter should be thick and smooth.

#### 5. **Pour into the Pan:**
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it out evenly. Tap the pan gently on the counter to remove any air bubbles and to level the batter.

#### 6. **Bake:**
Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick or cake tester inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached. If the top starts to brown too quickly, cover the bread loosely with foil during the last 15 minutes of baking.

#### 7. **Cool:**
Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents the bread from becoming soggy.

#### 8. **Make the Glaze (Optional):**
While the bread is cooling, prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest in a small bowl. The glaze should be smooth and pourable, but not too runny.

Drizzle the glaze over the cooled bread for an added touch of sweetness and a beautiful glossy finish. You can also serve the glaze on the side for those who prefer to control how much they use.

#### 9. **Serve and Enjoy:**
Once the glaze has set, slice your Lemon Cream Cheese Bread and enjoy! It pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee, or as a light dessert after a meal.

### Tips for Perfect Lemon Cream Cheese Bread

– **Use Fresh Lemons:** Fresh lemon zest and juice are key to achieving the best flavor. Avoid bottled lemon juice if possible, as it doesn’t provide the same vibrant, fresh taste.
– **Room Temperature Ingredients:** For the best texture, make sure your cream cheese, butter, and eggs are at room temperature. This ensures they combine easily and evenly.
– **Don’t Overmix the Batter:** Stir the batter until just combined. Overmixing can make the bread dense instead of light and tender.
– **Check for Doneness:** Ovens vary, so start checking the bread at the 50-minute mark by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s done.
– **Add a Streusel Topping:** For a little extra crunch and sweetness, sprinkle some streusel topping on the bread before baking. Combine flour, sugar, and butter for a crumbly texture.

### Why Lemon Cream Cheese Bread is a Must-Try

**Lemon Cream Cheese Bread** is the perfect treat for those who love a sweet, tangy, and slightly decadent bread. It’s a great choice for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a light dessert to round out a meal. The combination of cream cheese and lemon creates a moist and flavorful loaf that is incredibly satisfying, while the optional glaze adds a touch of sweetness to elevate the overall flavor.

This bread is perfect for baking ahead and sharing with friends or family, or even gifting to someone special. It’s also incredibly versatile—add a handful of poppy seeds, a dash of cinnamon, or even some fresh berries to make it your own!

### Conclusion: A Delightful Treat for Any Occasion

Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just indulging in a sweet treat at home, **Lemon Cream Cheese Bread** will be a hit. The soft, moist texture, combined with the fresh citrus and rich cream cheese, creates a deliciously unforgettable flavor that will leave everyone asking for more. Try this recipe today and enjoy the delightful taste of this zesty and creamy bread—perfect for any time of year!