Instructions
Step 1: Prep and Mix Wet Ingredients
Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a standard loaf pan.
In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, eggs, sour cream, lemon zest and juice, vanilla, and oil until smooth.
Step 2: Sift Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, sift flour, baking powder, and salt to remove lumps and create a lighter texture.
Step 3: Combine
Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender. Set aside.
Step 4: Make the Cream Cheese Swirl
In a small bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar until creamy and smooth.
Step 5: Layer and Marble
Pour half the lemon batter into the loaf pan. Spoon half the cream cheese mixture on top and swirl gently with a knife. Repeat with remaining batter and cream cheese, creating a marbled effect.
Step 6: Bake
Bake for 65–70 minutes. To prevent over-browning, loosely tent the pan with foil for the last 20–30 minutes.
Step 7: Cool
Let the bread cool completely in the pan before slicing so the cream cheese center firms up for clean, beautiful slices.
