Blueberry Cream Cheese Loaf (Moist, Bakery-Style Recipe)
If you’re craving a bakery-style treat that’s equal parts rich, moist, and bursting with fresh blueberry flavor, this blueberry cream cheese loaf is about to become your new favorite recipe. With a tender vanilla loaf, juicy blueberries in every bite, and a creamy cheesecake-like swirl baked right inside, this loaf is perfect for breakfast, brunch, dessert, or a cozy afternoon coffee break.
Unlike dry quick breads, this blueberry cream cheese loaf stays incredibly soft thanks to the cream cheese layer and a carefully balanced batter. It slices beautifully, looks impressive enough for guests, and tastes even better the next day—making it ideal for meal prep, gifting, or weekend baking projects.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this step-by-step guide will walk you through everything you need to know to make the best blueberry cream cheese loaf from scratch.
Why You’ll Love This Blueberry Cream Cheese Loaf
There’s a reason this recipe is so popular—and once you try it, you’ll understand why.
Ultra-moist texture thanks to cream cheese and blueberries
Bakery-style flavor with a rich vanilla base
Easy to make with simple pantry ingredients
Perfect balance of sweet and tangy
Freezer-friendly and great for make-ahead baking
This loaf combines the comfort of classic blueberry bread with the indulgence of a cheesecake swirl, making it a standout recipe you’ll come back to again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This blueberry cream cheese loaf uses everyday baking staples. Exact measurements are included in the recipe card section below, but here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need and why each ingredient matters.
For the Blueberry Loaf Batter
All-purpose flour – Provides structure while keeping the loaf tender
Baking powder – Helps the loaf rise evenly
Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavor
Unsalted butter – Adds richness and moisture
Granulated sugar – Sweetens and creates a soft crumb
Eggs – Bind the ingredients and add structure
Vanilla extract – Adds warmth and depth
Milk or sour cream – Keeps the loaf moist
Fresh or frozen blueberries – The star of the recipe
For the Cream Cheese Layer
Full-fat cream cheese – Essential for a rich, cheesecake-like swirl
Sugar – Lightly sweetens the cream cheese
Egg – Helps the layer set while baking
Vanilla extract – Enhances flavor
Baking tip: Full-fat cream cheese works best. Reduced-fat versions can affect texture and cause separation.
Fresh vs Frozen Blueberries: Which Is Best?
Both fresh and frozen blueberries work beautifully in this blueberry cream cheese loaf, but there are a few things to keep in mind.
Fresh Blueberries
Best during peak season
Hold their shape well
Less moisture released during baking
Frozen Blueberries
Convenient and available year-round
No need to thaw
Toss in flour before folding into batter to prevent streaking
If using frozen blueberries, add them straight from the freezer and gently fold them into the batter at the very end.
How to Make Blueberry Cream Cheese Loaf
This recipe comes together in simple steps and doesn’t require any fancy equipment.
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a standard 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang on the sides for easy removal.
Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Mixture
In a bowl, beat softened cream cheese with sugar until smooth. Add the egg and vanilla extract and mix until fully combined. Set aside.
Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures even distribution and a consistent rise.
Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This step helps create a tender crumb.
Step 5: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Mix in the eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Alternate adding the dry ingredients and milk (or sour cream) to the batter, mixing just until combined.
Step 7: Fold in Blueberries
Gently fold in the blueberries, being careful not to overmix.
Step 8: Layer the Batter
Pour half of the blueberry batter into the prepared loaf pan. Spoon the cream cheese mixture over the batter, then top with the remaining batter. Use a knife to gently swirl for a marbled effect.
Step 9: Bake
Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean (a little cream cheese is fine).
Step 10: Cool and Slice
Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Tips for the Perfect Blueberry Cream Cheese Loaf
Room-temperature ingredients mix more smoothly and bake more evenly
Don’t overmix the batter—this keeps the loaf tender
Check doneness early and tent with foil if the top browns too quickly
Let it cool fully before slicing to set the cream cheese layer
Variations to Try
Once you’ve mastered the classic version, try one of these delicious twists.
Lemon Blueberry Cream Cheese Loaf
Add lemon zest to the batter and a tablespoon of lemon juice to the cream cheese mixture for a bright, citrusy flavor.
Streusel-Topped Blueberry Cream Cheese Loaf
Top the batter with a crumbly streusel made from butter, sugar, and flour for extra texture.
Almond Blueberry Cream Cheese Loaf
Swap vanilla extract for almond extract and sprinkle sliced almonds on top before baking.
How to Store and Freeze
Storing
Store covered at room temperature for up to 2 days
Refrigerate for up to 5 days for best freshness
Freezing
This blueberry cream cheese loaf freezes beautifully.
Cool completely
Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil
Freeze for up to 3 months
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature before serving.
What to Serve With Blueberry Cream Cheese Loaf
This loaf pairs perfectly with:
Hot coffee or lattes
Tea or herbal blends
Fresh fruit
Yogurt or whipped cream
It’s ideal for brunch spreads, baby showers, weekend breakfasts, or gifting to friends and neighbors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this blueberry cream cheese loaf ahead of time?
Yes! It actually tastes even better the next day once the flavors have melded.
Can I use gluten-free flour?
A 1:1 gluten-free baking blend works well, though texture may vary slightly.
Why did my loaf crack on top?
Cracks are normal in quick breads and often indicate a moist interior.
Final Thoughts
This blueberry cream cheese loaf is everything you want in a homemade baked good: moist, flavorful, visually stunning, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just yourself, this recipe delivers bakery-quality results every time.
If you’re looking for a reliable, crowd-pleasing loaf that works for breakfast, dessert, or gifting, this blueberry cream cheese loaf deserves a permanent spot in your recipe collection.
