nstructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease and flour a 9x5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, 1/4 cup sugar (or substitute), vanilla extract, and the optional egg (if using).
2. Using a hand mixer or a whisk, beat the mixture until smooth and creamy. Set aside.

Step 3: Make the Pumpkin Bread Batter

1. In a large bowl, sift together the whole wheat flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix well and set aside.
2. In another mixing bowl, beat the 2 large eggs and then add the granulated sugar (or substitute), pumpkin puree, and vegetable oil (or applesauce/Greek yogurt). Whisk together until combined and smooth.
3. Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients. Stir until just combined (do not overmix).

Step 4: Assemble the Loaf

1. Pour half of the pumpkin batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly.
2. Carefully add the cream cheese filling on top of the batter, spreading it gently to cover the surface.
3. Pour the remaining pumpkin batter over the cream cheese filling, spreading it to cover it completely.

Step 5: Bake the Bread

• Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean (the cream cheese filling may remain slightly soft).

Step 6: Cool and Serve

1. Once baked, remove the pumpkin bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes.
2. Carefully transfer the bread to a wire rack to cool completely.
3. Slice and serve! Enjoy your healthy Cream Cheese-Filled Pumpkin Bread!

Storage

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze individual slices for longer storage.

Enjoy your baking!