Cream Cheese Swirled Cinnamon Pumpkin Butter Bread: The Ultimate Fall Baking Recipe

Nothing says cozy fall mornings quite like the scent of warm pumpkin bread wafting through your kitchen. This cream cheese swirled cinnamon pumpkin butter bread combines all the best autumn flavors — spiced pumpkin, creamy tangy swirls, and a delicate cinnamon-sugar topping — in one irresistible loaf.

If you love baking Half Baked Harvest recipes or are a fan of classics like pumpkin banana bread, pumpkin coffee cakes, or even pumpkin chocolate chip bread, this recipe takes things to a whole new level. A little decadent yet perfectly balanced, it’s ideal for breakfast, dessert, or even gifting during the holidays.

Here’s how to create your own bakery-worthy loaf of cream cheese swirled cinnamon pumpkin butter bread at home — complete with step-by-step instructions, tips, and creative variations.

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Why You’ll Love This Cream Cheese Swirled Cinnamon Pumpkin Butter Bread

This bread is a seasonal favorite because it’s:

• Moist and flavorful: Thanks to pumpkin puree and pumpkin butter.
• Beautiful to serve: The cream cheese swirl is stunning yet simple to achieve.
• Easy to make: No fancy equipment or advanced techniques required.
• Versatile: Works as breakfast, snack, or dessert.
• A crowd-pleaser: Loved by kids and adults alike.

If you’ve already baked favorites like churro stuffed French toast or pumpkin pancakes, this bread is your next must-try fall baking project.

Half Baked Harvest Recipes and the Magic of Pumpkin Season

Fall baking is all about comfort, and Half Baked Harvest recipes like this one truly shine during pumpkin season. Inspired by cozy kitchens and nostalgic flavors, this recipe brings together the essence of autumn — pumpkin spice, creamy richness, and a touch of sweetness — all in a sliceable loaf.

Ingredients for Cinnamon Crumble Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Swirl

For the bread:

• 1 1/2 cups (180 g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup (110 g) packed light brown sugar
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup (240 g) canned pumpkin puree
• 1/4 cup (60 g) pumpkin butter

For the cream cheese swirl:

• 4 oz (115 g) cream cheese, softened
• 3 tablespoons sugar
• 1 large egg yolk
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the cinnamon crumble (optional):

• 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon cold butter, cubed

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need for Pumpkin Coffee Cakes and Breads

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or whisk
• 9×5-inch (23×13 cm) loaf pan
• Parchment paper
• Spatula
• Cooling rack

Step-by-Step: How to Make Cream Cheese Swirled Cinnamon Pumpkin Bread

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your loaf pan with parchment paper and lightly grease.

Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Filling

In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese, sugar, egg yolk, and vanilla until smooth and creamy. Set aside.

Step 3: Make the Bread Batter

In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and spices. In a large bowl, beat sugars, oil, eggs, and vanilla until combined. Stir in pumpkin puree and pumpkin butter. Gradually add dry ingredients, mixing just until incorporated.

Step 4: Assemble

Pour half the pumpkin batter into the loaf pan. Dollop half the cream cheese mixture and gently swirl with a knife. Repeat with remaining batter and cream cheese. Sprinkle the cinnamon crumble on top if desired.

Step 5: Bake

Bake for 50–60 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean. Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack.

Step 6: Slice & Serve

Once cooled, slice and serve — or enjoy slightly warm for an extra treat.

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Tips for the Perfect Pumpkin Cinnamon Swirl Sourdough Bread Inspired Loaf

• Don’t overmix the batter — this keeps the bread tender.
• Use room temperature cream cheese for a smooth swirl.
• Swirl gently so the layers remain distinct.
• Store leftovers tightly wrapped to keep them moist.

Variations: Pumpkin Banana Bread, Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread & More

• Pumpkin banana bread: Replace half the pumpkin puree with mashed banana.
• Pumpkin chocolate chip bread: Fold in 3/4 cup (130 g) chocolate chips to the batter.
• Mini loaves: Divide batter among mini pans and reduce baking time to 25–30 minutes.
• Pumpkin coffee cakes: Make it in a square pan and cut into cake-like pieces.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Baking Pumpkin Bread Smitten Kitchen Style

• Using too much pumpkin puree — measure carefully to avoid soggy bread.
• Overbaking — start checking at 50 minutes to prevent dry edges.
• Not cooling completely before slicing — warm bread can fall apart if cut too soon.

Serving Suggestions for Your Pumpkin Butter Bread

This bread is so versatile. Enjoy it:

• With a smear of softened butter or cream cheese.
• With your morning coffee or tea.
• As a dessert with a drizzle of maple glaze.
• Packed in lunchboxes or wrapped as a thoughtful homemade gift.

How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Coffee Cakes and Breads

• Room temperature: Store wrapped for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerator: Keeps up to 1 week — just bring to room temp before serving.
• Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight at room temperature.

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Pumpkin Bread FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes — it tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.

Can I skip the cream cheese swirl?
Absolutely — it will still be a moist and delicious pumpkin bread.

Can I make it gluten-free?
You can substitute a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour.

Final Thoughts and Call to Action: Bake This Cozy Fall Treat Today

This cream cheese swirled cinnamon pumpkin butter bread is everything you love about fall in one tender, flavorful loaf. Whether you’re baking it for a special brunch, enjoying it with coffee, or gifting it to a friend, it’s sure to impress.

If you loved this recipe, please share it with your friends and family, and subscribe to our blog for more cozy fall baking ideas and creative pumpkin recipes!

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