Pineapple Cream Cheese Bread

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan

1. Preheat the Oven: 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.

Step 2: Prepare the Bread Batter

1. Cream the Butter, Sugar, and Cream Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and cream cheese together until light and fluffy.
2. Add the Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Mix in the vanilla extract.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing just until combined.
5. Fold in Pineapple and Nuts: Gently fold in the drained crushed pineapple and chopped nuts (if using) until evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 3: Bake the Bread

1. Transfer to Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
2. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top starts to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil.
3. Cool: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 4: Prepare the Cream Cheese Glaze (Optional)

1. Make the Glaze: In a small mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Add the pineapple juice and vanilla extract, and continue to beat until the glaze reaches your desired consistency.
2. Glaze the Bread: Once the bread has cooled completely, drizzle the cream cheese glaze over the top.

Tips for Perfect Pineapple Cream Cheese Bread

• Drain the Pineapple: Make sure to drain the crushed pineapple well to avoid adding excess moisture to the batter.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Using room temperature butter, cream cheese, and eggs will help create a smooth batter and ensure even baking.
• Storage: Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. The flavors develop even more after a day or two, making this bread even more delicious as it sits.

Conclusion

Pineapple Cream Cheese Bread is a delightful, tropical-inspired treat that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy. The combination of sweet pineapple and rich cream cheese creates a moist and flavorful bread that’s perfect for any time of day. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, this bread is sure to bring a touch of sunshine to your table. Enjoy a slice on its own, or take it to the next level with the optional cream cheese glaze for an extra burst of sweetness and flavor.