When the chill of autumn creeps in and leaves begin to carpet the ground, there’s nothing quite like a slice of warm, freshly-baked Paleo Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Swirl to wrap yourself in comfort. The combination of fall’s beloved pumpkin and sweet spices fills the air with nostalgic aromas that make your kitchen feel like a cozy haven.
I stumbled onto this delightful recipe while searching for something to elevate our afternoon tea gatherings, and let me tell you, it was a game changer! With its rich, moist texture and the creamy swirl of cashew cream cheese, this bread is more than just a treat—it’s a star that impresses guests while being wholesome enough for any health-conscious palate.
Easy to whip up and completely free from gluten and refined sugars, this is the perfect antidote to your fast-food fatigue. Join me as we create a loaf that’s not only delicious but also a celebration of the flavors this season has to offer!
Why is Paleo Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Swirl so unforgettable?
Warm, Cozy Flavors: As fall approaches, this delicious bread brings the comforting essence of pumpkin spice to your kitchen.
Healthier Indulgence: Made with almond and coconut flour, it caters to your paleo lifestyle without compromising taste.
Versatile Delight: Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert, it’s great any time of day!
Impressive Presentation: The creamy swirl makes it not only tasty but gorgeous enough for any gathering.
Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep, you can enjoy this heavenly loaf with minimal effort.
You won’t want to miss out—give this recipe a chance and discover the delightful flavors of this season!
Paleo Pumpkin Bread Ingredients
• Dive into the wonderful world of flavors with this Paleo Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Swirl recipe!
For the Bread
- Almond flour – A gluten-free base that offers a nutty flavor and moist texture.
- Coconut flour – Adds a subtle sweetness and helps absorb moisture; don’t substitute in equal amounts!
- Coconut sugar – Gives a caramel-like sweetness, perfect for enhancing the rich flavors of fall.
- Salt – Elevates all the flavors while balancing sweetness.
- Cinnamon – This warm spice adds a cozy feel, evoking memories of autumn days.
- Pumpkin pie spice – Brings the essence of the season in every bite; can substitute with a mix of nutmeg and ginger if needed.
- Baking soda – Essential for leavening, ensuring a fluffy loaf.
- Eggs – Provide structure and richness; use flax eggs for a vegan option.
- Almond milk – Keep it unsweetened to maintain the balance of flavors.
- Vanilla extract – A splash enhances the sweetness beautifully.
- Oil – Helps keep the bread moist; use melted coconut oil for a delicious twist.
For the Paleo Cream Cheese Filling
- Raw cashews – The base of the cream cheese filling, lending a creamy texture; soak them for a smoother blend.
- Fresh lemon juice – Adds brightness and a tangy contrast to the sweetness.
- Vanilla extract – Amplifies the flavor of the filling, making it irresistible.
- Pure maple syrup – Natural sweetener that perfectly complements the nutty taste of cashews.
- Salt – A pinch enhances the overall flavor, bringing balance to the sweetness.
This unique blend of ingredients comes together to create a warm, inviting loaf that’s perfect to share or enjoy all to yourself!
How to Make Paleo Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Swirl
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Blend the Filling: Start by adding all the cream cheese filling ingredients—raw cashews, lemon juice, vanilla extract, maple syrup, and salt—into a high-speed blender. Blend until very smooth and creamy, then scrape into a bowl and set it aside.
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Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 350º F. Take a loaf pan and either line it with parchment paper or lightly oil it using coconut oil to prevent sticking.
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Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together almond flour, coconut flour, salt, coconut sugar, cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, and baking soda. Set this fragrant mixture aside for later.
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Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, crack the eggs and whisk them with almond milk, vanilla extract, and oil until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
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Combine Mixtures: Gently pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredient bowl. Stir with a spatula until just combined; be careful not to overmix—this will keep your bread light and fluffy.
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Layer the Batter: Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly using a spatula.
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Add the Cream Cheese Filling: Carefully dollop and spread half of the cream cheese filling onto the batter for a delicious swirl effect.
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Finish with Batter and Filling: Pour the remaining batter over the cream cheese layer, spreading it out evenly. Top with the leftover cream cheese filling, smoothing it again with your spatula for a lovely finish.
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Bake to Perfection: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes until the top is golden brown. Then, tent the pan with foil and continue baking for another 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
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Cool Down: Let the bread cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before removing it. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Optional: Serve with a drizzle of maple syrup for an extra sweet touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Paleo Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Swirl loaves are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cream cheese filling and dry ingredients up to 3 days in advance. Simply blend the filling ingredients and refrigerate them in an airtight container. Whisk together the dry ingredients and store them in a separate container. When you’re ready to bake, combine the wet ingredients and fold them into the dry mixture before layering in the pan as per the recipe. A tip for maintaining quality is to keep the filling chilled until you mix it into the batter, which ensures the cream cheese swirl remains creamy and delightful. Just pop it in the oven, and you’ll have fresh-baked goodness with minimal effort!
What to Serve with Paleo Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Swirl?
When enjoying a slice of this autumn wonder, pair it with delightful additions to create a complete meal experience.
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Spiced Chai Latte: A warm cup of spiced chai, with its aromatic blend of tea and spices, enhances the comforting flavors of the pumpkin bread.
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Maple Butter: A spread of maple butter adds a rich, sweet layer that compliments the creamy filling beautifully. It’s simply addictive!
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant fruit salad with apples, pears, and berries introduces a refreshing contrast, brightening every bite of your warm bread.
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Creamy Yogurt: A dollop of coconut yogurt brings a cool, creamy element that balances the sweet spices, perfect for breakfast or dessert.
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Walnut Crumble Topping: Toasted walnuts sprinkled on top provide a crunchy texture and nutty flavor that complements the smooth cream cheese swirl.
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Herbal Tea: A light herbal tea, such as chamomile or mint, can cleanse the palate between bites and add a soothing touch to your cozy experience.
Each of these pairings awakens the flavors of the season and makes your treat even more enjoyable!
Paleo Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Swirl Variations
Feel free to explore these delicious twists and swaps to make this recipe truly your own!
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Nut-Free: Substitute almond flour with sunflower seed flour for a nut-free alternative that still provides great texture.
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Sweetener Switch: Use honey or agave syrup instead of coconut sugar for a different kind of sweetness that complements the pumpkin beautifully.
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Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne or nutmeg for a hint of spice that will elevate the flavor profile with a delightful kick.
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Add Fruits: Stir in chopped apples or raisins for delightful bursts of flavor and natural sweetness in every slice.
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Extra Creamy Filling: Mix in a tablespoon of coconut cream into the cream cheese filling for a richer, creamier texture that’s truly luscious.
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Vegan Version: Replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) to make this recipe plant-based without sacrificing flavor.
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Chocolate Delight: Fold in dark chocolate chips into the batter for a sweet surprise that pairs beautifully with the pumpkin and cream cheese.
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Cheese Lovers: Add a splash of cream cheese to the batter itself for an even creamier loaf that makes every bite incredibly indulgent.
With these variations, you can enjoy this lovely bread exactly how you like it—so don’t be afraid to get creative in the kitchen!
How to Store and Freeze Paleo Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Swirl
Room Temperature: Store cooled bread in a loosely wrapped parchment until ready to serve for up to 2 days; avoid airtight containers to maintain moisture.
Fridge: For longer storage, keep the bread in the refrigerator wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or foil for up to 1 week.
Freezer: Freeze slices in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to airtight bags for up to 3 months; just thaw or toast before enjoying.
Reheating: To enjoy warm, gently heat slices in the microwave for 15–20 seconds or toast in a toaster oven—perfect for a cozy morning!
Expert Tips for Baking Paleo Pumpkin Bread
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Measure Carefully: Always spoon and level your flours for accurate measurements—too much almond or coconut flour can make the bread dense.
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Blend Cashews Well: Soak the cashews for a few hours, then blend them until completely smooth for a delightful cream cheese filling that doesn’t feel grainy.
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Avoid Overmixing: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a tough texture instead of a light, fluffy bread.
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Don’t Skip the Foil: If the top browns too quickly while baking, tent the bread with foil to prevent burning and ensure it cooks evenly throughout.
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Cool Completely: Allow the Paleo Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Swirl to cool completely on a wire rack before slicing; this helps maintain its structure and flavor.
Paleo Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Swirl Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right pumpkins for baking?
Absolutely! When it comes to baking with pumpkin, look for small, sugar pumpkins or pie pumpkins—they’re sweeter and more flavorful than larger pumpkins. Check for a firm skin and avoid any with dark spots or blemishes, as these may indicate spoilage.
How should I store leftover Paleo Pumpkin Bread?
To keep your delicious Paleo Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Swirl fresh, store it in the fridge wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or foil for up to 1 week. If you prefer to leave it at room temperature, keep it loosely wrapped in parchment paper for up to 2 days to maintain moisture without getting soggy.
Can I freeze my Paleo Pumpkin Bread? How?
Very! To freeze the bread, first, allow it to cool completely. Next, slice the bread and lay the slices in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze for about 2 hours until solid, and then transfer the slices to an airtight freezer bag. This way, you can enjoy it up to 3 months later by simply thawing or toasting a slice as needed!
What should I do if my bread is too dense?
If you find your bread is denser than expected, it may be due to overmixing or improper flour measurements. It’s essential to spoon and level your flours instead of packing them tightly. Make sure you mix your wet and dry ingredients until just combined for that light, fluffy texture!
Is this recipe suitable for those with nut allergies?
While this recipe contains almond and cashew ingredients, you can certainly make adjustments. For a nut-free version, consider using sunflower seed flour in place of almond flour and silken tofu or a nut-free cream cheese alternative in place of the cashew cream cheese filling. Always check product labels to ensure they meet your dietary needs.
How long does the cream cheese layer take to blend properly?
For the paleo cream cheese filling, blend your soaked raw cashews with lemon juice, vanilla, maple syrup, and salt for about 1-2 minutes in a high-speed blender. Stop occasionally to scrape down the sides, ensuring a super creamy consistency. If needed, add a little splash of almond milk to get things moving!
Irresistible Paleo Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Swirl Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Blend the Filling: Add all the cream cheese filling ingredients into a high-speed blender. Blend until very smooth and creamy, then set aside.
- Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 350º F and prepare a loaf pan by lining with parchment paper or lightly oiling it.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together almond flour, coconut flour, salt, coconut sugar, cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, and baking soda.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk the eggs with almond milk, vanilla extract, and oil until smooth.
- Combine Mixtures: Gently pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined.
- Layer the Batter: Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread evenly.
- Add the Cream Cheese Filling: Dollop and spread half of the cream cheese filling onto the batter.
- Finish with Batter and Filling: Pour the remaining batter over the filling and top with the leftover cream cheese filling.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake for about 30 minutes, then tent with foil and bake for an additional 30-35 minutes.
- Cool Down: Let the bread cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.