Cream Cheese Loaf Cake
Cream Cheese Loaf Cake offers a moist, tender crumb with a delightful hint of orange zest and creamy cheese pockets. Its rich flavor and soft texture make it perfect for breakfast, brunch, or teatime indulgence, appealing to those who enjoy fruity, creamy baked treats with a hint of citrus.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Cream the shortening and gradually add 1 1/2 cups of sugar, continuing to cream until light and fluffy.
- Beat in eggs, beating well.
- Add sifted dry ingredients, alternating with milk, beginning and ending with dry ingredients. Blend well after each addition.
- Cut cream cheese into 1/4-inch cubes and fold into batter along with orange peel.
- Turn batter into 2 greased and floured 9 x 5-inch loaf pans or 12 well-greased muffin tins.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 50 to 55 minutes for loaves or 20 to 25 minutes for muffins, or until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature before folding it into the batter. You can substitute half of the shortening with unsalted butter for a richer flavor. If you prefer, use lemon zest instead of orange peel for a different citrus note. Keep an eye on the baking time, as ovens can vary, especially if using muffin tins instead of loaf pans.
Serving Suggestions
This cream cheese loaf cake is delightful on its own but can be enhanced with a light glaze or a sprinkle of powdered sugar. Serve it alongside a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon snack. It pairs beautifully with American recipes like Four-Cup Salad for a balanced meal, making it a versatile addition to any gathering.
Storage & Reheating
After the cake has cooled completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It can be kept at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerated for up to a week. If you want to enjoy it warm, reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cream Cheese Loaf Cake contains roughly 249 calories, with 5g protein, 32g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is a good source of calcium (16% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (15% of the Daily Value), and iron (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 864mg per serving (38% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use low-fat cream cheese in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute low-fat cream cheese, but keep in mind that it may slightly alter the texture and richness of the loaf cake. The flavor will still be delicious, so feel free to make the swap if you're looking for a lighter option.
What can I do if I don't have shortening?
If you don't have shortening, you can replace it with an equal amount of unsalted butter or coconut oil. This will give your loaf a richer flavor, but the texture might be a bit different. Just ensure that the butter is softened to room temperature for proper creaming.
Can I add other flavors or ingredients?
Absolutely! You can mix in chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits to customize your loaf cake. Just be mindful of the added moisture and adjust the flour slightly if necessary. Experimenting with flavors can yield delicious results!
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).