Name: Cream Cheese and Almond Wheat Bread Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 2 h 45 min
Yield: 10
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup warm water; 2 tbsp brown sugar; ¼ oz active dry yeast; 1 cup cream cheese; ½ cup almonds; 3 tbsp milk; 2 tbsp Vegetable Oil; 2 tbsp honey; 1 tbsp salt; 1½ cups all purpose flour; 1½ cups whole wheat flour

Discover a delectable fusion of textures and flavors with this cream cheese and almond wheat bread recipe. Perfect for breakfast or a midday snack, this bread combines the mild tanginess of cream cheese and the nutty crunch of almonds, making it a delightful treat for any occasion.

Photos of Cream Cheese and Almond Wheat Bread Recipe

While most ingredients in this recipe are common pantry staples, you might need to pick up cream cheese and almonds if they're not already on hand. These ingredients are typically found in the dairy section and the baking or snack aisles, respectively.

Ingredients For Cream Cheese And Almond Wheat Bread

warm water: Used to activate the yeast and help the dough rise.

brown sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness to the bread and feeds the yeast.

active dry yeast: The leavening agent that helps the bread rise.

cream cheese: Adds a creamy texture and slight tang to the bread.

almonds: Provides a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.

milk: Adds moisture and richness to the dough.

vegetable oil: Keeps the bread moist and tender.

honey: Adds natural sweetness and helps with browning.

salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.

all-purpose flour: Provides structure to the bread.

whole-wheat flour: Adds a hearty, nutty flavor and increased fiber.

One reader, Chloette Newcomb says:

This cream cheese and almond wheat bread is a delightful treat! The texture is perfectly soft and springy, with a subtle sweetness from the honey. The almonds add a lovely crunch, and the cream cheese makes it wonderfully moist. A must-try for any bread lover!

Chloette Newcomb

Techniques Required for Making Cream Cheese and Almond Wheat Bread

How to activate yeast: Mix warm water, brown sugar, and yeast, then let it stand until it forms a creamy foam. How to blend ingredients: Combine whipped cream cheese, almonds, milk, vegetable oil, honey, and salt, then blend until smooth. How to knead dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8 minutes until smooth and springy. How to punch down dough: After the first rise, punch the dough to release air before kneading again. How to form a loaf: Shape the kneaded dough into a loaf before placing it in the bread pan.

How To Make Cream Cheese and Almond Wheat Bread

This cream cheese and almond wheat bread makes a great fluffy loaf. With hints of honey, almonds, and cream cheese for a delightful baked dish.

Preparation: 20 minutes

Cooking: 50 minutes

Rise Time: 1 hour 35 minutes

Total: 2 hours 45 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1cupwarm water
2tbspbrown sugar
¼ozactive dry yeast,(1 package)
1cupcream cheese,whipped
½cupalmonds,chopped
3tbspmilk
2tbspvegetable oil
2tbsphoney
1tbspsalt
1½cupsall purpose flour
1½cupswhole wheat flour

Instructions

Mix the warm water, brown sugar, and yeast in a large mixing bowl, then stir well.
Let stand for about 5 minutes until the yeast softens and begins to form a creamy foam. Grease a separate large bowl and set it aside.
Stir the whipped cream cheese, almonds, milk, vegetable oil, honey, and salt into the yeast mixture. Transfer to a blender; then blend until creamy and smooth.
Slowly stir the all-purpose flour and cream cheese mixture together in a large bowl, then add the whole-wheat flour. Stir to make a smooth dough.
Turn the dough onto a floured surface, then knead for about 8 minutes until smooth and springy. Place the dough in the greased bowl, turning once to grease the top of the dough.
Cover the bowl with a towel and let sit for about 45 minutes until double in size.
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Grease a 5×9-inch bread pan.
Punch the dough down and knead again on a floured surface; form into a loaf. Place the dough in the greased bread pan.
Let rise in a warm place for 45 minutes until double in size.
Bake in the oven for 50 to 60 minutes until bread is done in the middle and the top is browned. Cover the bread with aluminum foil if it gets too dark during the cooking process.
Serve and enjoy.

Nutrition

Calories: 299.65kcal
Fat: 15.15g
Saturated Fat: 5.13g
Trans Fat: 0.02g
Monounsaturated Fat: 6.41g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.99g
Carbohydrates: 35.49g
Fiber: 3.53g
Sugar: 6.61g
Protein: 7.65g
Cholesterol: 25.97mg
Sodium: 243.76mg
Calcium: 58.76mg
Potassium: 187.16mg
Iron: 1.92mg
Vitamin A: 86.98µg
Vitamin C: 0.02mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Perfecting This Recipe

When kneading the dough, use the heel of your hand to push it away from you, then fold it back over itself. Rotate the dough a quarter turn and repeat. This helps develop the gluten, giving the bread its structure and chewiness. If the dough is too sticky, lightly dust it with flour to make it easier to handle, but be careful not to add too much as it can make the bread dense.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Recipe

Prepare ingredients in advance: Measure and chop almonds the night before to save time during assembly.

Use a stand mixer: Let a stand mixer do the heavy lifting for kneading the dough, cutting down on manual effort and time.

Warm environment for rising: Place the dough in a slightly warm oven (turned off) to speed up the rising process.

Preheat the oven early: Start preheating the oven while the dough is rising to ensure it's ready to bake immediately.

Double batch: Make a double batch and freeze one loaf for later, saving time on future baking days.

Substitute Ingredients For Cream Cheese and Almond Wheat Bread Recipe

cream cheese - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt provides a similar creamy texture and tangy flavor, making it a healthier alternative.
almonds - Substitute with walnuts: Walnuts offer a similar crunch and nutty flavor, and they are also rich in healthy fats.
milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk is a dairy-free alternative that provides a slightly nutty flavor, complementing the other ingredients.
vegetable oil - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can be used for its mild flavor and similar fat content, adding a subtle hint of coconut.
honey - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup offers a similar sweetness and can be used in the same quantity as honey.
all purpose flour - Substitute with spelt flour: Spelt flour has a similar protein content and can be used to add a slightly nutty flavor to the bread.
whole wheat flour - Substitute with oat flour: Oat flour provides a similar texture and is a good source of fiber, making it a nutritious alternative.

Best Way to Present Cream Cheese and Almond Wheat Bread

Serve smaller portion sizes: Slice the bread into thin, elegant slices to highlight the delicate texture and flavors of the cream cheese and almonds.
Use decoration: Garnish each slice with a light drizzle of honey and a sprinkle of finely chopped almonds to add visual appeal and enhance the nutty flavor.
Pair with accompaniments: Serve the bread with a side of whipped cream cheese mixed with a hint of honey and a few almond slivers for an added touch of luxury.
Use high-quality ingredients: Ensure that all ingredients, especially the cream cheese, almonds, and honey, are of the highest quality to elevate the overall taste and presentation.
Create a balanced plate: Complement the bread with fresh, seasonal fruits such as berries or figs to add color and a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors.
Add a touch of greenery: Place a small sprig of fresh mint or basil on the plate to add a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
Use elegant plating: Arrange the bread slices on a sleek, modern plate with clean lines to give a sophisticated and professional appearance.
Highlight texture: Toast a few slices of the bread to create a contrast between the soft interior and the crispy exterior, adding an interesting textural element to the dish.
Incorporate a dipping sauce: Offer a small bowl of olive oil infused with herbs and a touch of garlic as a dipping sauce to complement the flavors of the bread.
Finish with a flourish: Lightly dust the plate with a fine layer of powdered sugar or cocoa powder for a final touch of elegance and sophistication.

Essential Tools for Making This Recipe

Large mixing bowl: Used to combine the warm water, brown sugar, and yeast, and later to mix the dough ingredients.
Blender: Utilized to blend the cream cheese, almonds, milk, vegetable oil, honey, and salt into a smooth mixture.
Floured surface: A surface dusted with flour to prevent the dough from sticking while kneading.
Towel: Used to cover the bowl while the dough rises, maintaining warmth and moisture.
5x9-inch bread pan: The pan in which the dough is placed to bake into a loaf.
Oven: Preheated to 350 degrees F to bake the bread.
Aluminum foil: Used to cover the bread if it gets too dark during baking.
Measuring cups: Essential for accurately measuring the ingredients like water, flour, and cream cheese.
Measuring spoons: Used for measuring smaller quantities of ingredients such as brown sugar, yeast, milk, vegetable oil, honey, and salt.
Spatula: Helpful for stirring and scraping the mixture from the bowl.
Grease brush: Used to grease the bowl and bread pan to prevent sticking.
Knife: Useful for chopping the almonds if they are not pre-chopped.
Cooling rack: To cool the bread after it is baked.

Storing and Freezing Guidelines for Cream Cheese and Almond Wheat Bread

Allow the cream cheese and almond wheat bread to cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent moisture from building up inside the packaging, which can lead to mold growth.
To store the bread at room temperature, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight container. The bread will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days when stored this way.
If you want to keep the bread fresh for a longer period, you can store it in the refrigerator. Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight container before refrigerating. The bread will stay fresh for up to 1 week when stored in the refrigerator.
To freeze the bread, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Label the bag or container with the date and contents, then place it in the freezer. The bread will stay fresh for up to 3 months when frozen.
To thaw frozen bread, remove it from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature for several hours, or overnight in the refrigerator. Once thawed, you can reheat the bread in the oven or toaster to restore its texture and flavor.
If you plan to freeze the bread in slices, place a piece of parchment paper or wax paper between each slice before wrapping and freezing. This will make it easier to remove individual slices as needed, without having to thaw the entire loaf.

How To Reheat Leftover Cream Cheese and Almond Wheat Bread

To reheat leftover cream cheese and almond wheat bread, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the bread loosely in aluminum foil and place it on a baking sheet. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the bread is heated through and the crust is crispy.
Another option is to use a toaster oven. Slice the bread to your desired thickness and place the slices directly on the toaster oven rack. Toast for 3-5 minutes, or until the bread is heated through and lightly crispy on the outside.
For a quick and easy method, you can also use a microwave. Place a slice of bread on a microwave-safe plate and heat it on high for 15-20 seconds. If the bread isn't heated through, continue microwaving in 10-second intervals until it reaches your desired temperature. Keep in mind that microwaving may result in a softer texture compared to oven or toaster oven methods.
If you want to add a little extra flavor and crunch to your reheated bread, try brushing a thin layer of butter or olive oil on the slices before reheating them in the oven or toaster oven. You can also sprinkle some additional sliced almonds on top for added texture.
For a moist and soft reheating method, wrap the bread in a damp paper towel before microwaving. This will help prevent the bread from drying out during the reheating process.

Interesting Trivia About Cream Cheese and Almond Wheat Bread

A random fact about this recipe is that incorporating cream cheese into the bread dough not only adds a rich, tangy flavor but also helps to keep the bread moist and tender.

Is Making This Recipe at Home Cost-Effective?

This cream cheese and almond wheat bread recipe is moderately cost-effective. The primary ingredients like whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, and brown sugar are budget-friendly. However, items such as cream cheese and almonds can be pricier. For a household of 4, the approximate cost is around $10-$12. Considering the nutritional value and the unique flavor profile, this recipe offers good value for money. Overall Verdict: 7/10.

Is This Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

This cream cheese and almond wheat bread recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. On the positive side, it incorporates whole wheat flour, which provides fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Almonds are also a nutritious addition, offering healthy fats, protein, and various nutrients. However, the recipe also includes a significant amount of cream cheese, which is high in saturated fat and calories. The use of brown sugar, honey, and all-purpose flour further increases the calorie and carbohydrate content.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of cream cheese and replace a portion of it with Greek yogurt or cottage cheese for a lower-fat, protein-rich alternative
Increase the proportion of whole wheat flour to all-purpose flour to boost the fiber content and nutritional value
Opt for a natural sweetener like stevia or monk fruit instead of brown sugar and honey to decrease the added sugar content
Include additional nutrient-dense ingredients such as chia seeds, flax seeds, or dried fruits for added flavor and health benefits
Experiment with using mashed avocado or unsweetened applesauce as a partial substitute for the vegetable oil to reduce the overall fat content

Editor's Opinion on This Delightful Recipe

This recipe for cream cheese and almond wheat bread is a delightful fusion of rich, creamy textures and nutty flavors. The use of both all-purpose and whole wheat flour provides a balanced structure, while the cream cheese adds a unique moistness. The almonds contribute a pleasant crunch, and the honey offers a subtle sweetness. However, blending the cream cheese mixture might be unnecessary; simply mixing it should suffice. Overall, it's an innovative and flavorful bread that would pair well with both sweet and savory spreads.

Enhance Your Cream Cheese and Almond Wheat Bread Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Garlic and Herb Chicken: Roasted Garlic and Herb Chicken: Imagine the succulent flavors of roasted garlic and fresh herbs infusing tender chicken, perfectly complementing the creamy texture of your bread. The savory notes of the chicken will elevate your meal to a gourmet experience.

Butternut Squash Soup: Butternut Squash Soup: A velvety butternut squash soup with a hint of nutmeg and cinnamon will provide a warm, comforting contrast to the nutty flavors of the bread. The creamy consistency of the soup pairs beautifully with the dense, hearty loaf.

Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Crisp asparagus spears, lightly charred and sprinkled with lemon zest, add a refreshing, zesty touch to your meal. The bright, citrusy notes will cut through the richness of the cream cheese and almonds in the bread.

Apple and Walnut Salad: Apple and Walnut Salad: A crisp apple and walnut salad with a light vinaigrette dressing offers a sweet and tangy counterpoint to the savory bread. The crunch of the walnuts and the sweetness of the apples create a delightful textural contrast.

Chocolate Mousse: Chocolate Mousse: End your meal on a high note with a decadent chocolate mousse. The rich, creamy dessert will echo the smoothness of the cream cheese in the bread, while the deep chocolate flavor provides a luxurious finish.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Enjoyed This One

Honey Almond Wheat Bread: Dive into the nutty goodness of honey and almonds with this wholesome bread. Perfect for breakfast or a snack, this bread combines the natural sweetness of honey with the crunch of almonds, all wrapped up in a hearty wheat dough.

Cream Cheese and Herb Bread: Experience the savory delight of cream cheese blended with fresh herbs. This bread is perfect for pairing with soups or salads, offering a creamy and aromatic twist to your usual bread routine.

Almond and Cranberry Wheat Bread: Enjoy the festive flavors of almonds and cranberries in this delightful wheat bread. The tartness of cranberries perfectly complements the nutty almonds, making it a great choice for holiday gatherings or a special treat.

Cream Cheese and Walnut Bread: Indulge in the rich combination of cream cheese and walnuts. This bread is a perfect blend of creamy and crunchy, ideal for serving with soups or as a unique sandwich base.

Honey and Oat Wheat Bread: Savor the rustic charm of honey and oats in this wholesome wheat bread. The natural sweetness of honey and the hearty texture of oats make this bread a perfect companion for your morning coffee or tea.

Why trust this Cream Cheese and Almond Wheat Bread Recipe:

This recipe combines the rich, creamy texture of cream cheese with the nutty crunch of almonds to create a delightful wheat bread. The use of both all-purpose flour and whole wheat flour ensures a perfect balance of softness and health benefits. The addition of honey and brown sugar provides a subtle sweetness, making it a versatile bread for any meal. Trust this recipe for its unique blend of ingredients and straightforward instructions, ensuring a delicious homemade bread every time.

Have you tried this Cream Cheese and Almond Wheat Bread Recipe? Share your experience and discuss any variations in the Baking and Desserts forum section.

FAQ:

Can I use a different type of flour instead of whole wheat flour?

Sure, you can substitute whole wheat flour with another type of flour like spelt or rye. Just keep in mind that the texture and flavor might change a bit.

Do I need to toast the almonds before adding them to the dough?

Toasting the almonds isn't necessary, but it can add a nice depth of flavor. If you have the time, give it a try!

Can I use a stand mixer to knead the dough instead of doing it by hand?

Absolutely! Using a stand mixer with a dough hook can save you some effort. Just knead the dough on medium speed for about 5-7 minutes until it's smooth and springy.

How do I know when the bread is fully baked?

The bread is done when it sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom and has a nice golden-brown crust. You can also use a thermometer; the internal temperature should be around 190-200 degrees F.

Can I freeze the bread after baking?

Yes, you can freeze the bread. Just let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. It should keep well for up to 3 months.