Easy Berry and Cream Cheese Breakfast Bake

I love finding recipes that feel special but are incredibly easy to pull together, and this berry and cream cheese breakfast bake is one of those gems. It reminds me of lazy Sunday mornings when I was a kid, with the smell of something sweet baking filling the house. The combination of tangy cream cheese, sweet berries, and a hint of cinnamon is just divine. Don't be intimidated by baking; this recipe is straightforward and perfect for anyone looking to impress without a lot of fuss.

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
• 2 cups mixed berries (fresh or frozen)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
3. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, egg, milk, and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Spread half of the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish.
6. In a small bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the powdered sugar and lemon zest (if using) until smooth.
7. Dollop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the batter in the baking dish.
8. Gently spread the remaining batter over the cream cheese layer.
9. Sprinkle the mixed berries evenly over the top of the batter.
10. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
11. Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm!