Pumpkin Bread Recipe

Pumpkin bread is a classic fall treat that’s beloved for its warm, spiced flavor and tender crumb. Whether you’re enjoying it as a snack, breakfast, or dessert, a slice of moist pumpkin bread is the perfect way to embrace the flavors of the season. This recipe is easy to make, and the result is a loaf of bread that’s perfectly spiced, rich in pumpkin flavor, and wonderfully moist. Plus, it fills your kitchen with the most amazing aroma while it bakes. Ready to bake the perfect fall loaf? Let’s get started!

What is Pumpkin Bread?

Pumpkin bread is a sweet, quick bread made with pumpkin puree and spiced with warm autumn spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. It’s similar to banana bread or zucchini bread, with a dense yet tender texture and a rich flavor that highlights the natural sweetness of pumpkin. Pumpkin bread can be enjoyed plain or with add-ins like nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit. It’s a versatile recipe that’s perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert.

Ingredients List for Pumpkin Bread

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Pumpkin Bread:

Dry Ingredients:

• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour – The base of the bread, providing structure.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda – Helps the bread rise and become light.
• ½ teaspoon baking powder – Adds a bit of extra lift.
• ½ teaspoon salt – Enhances the overall flavor.
• 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon – Adds warmth and spice.
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg – Provides a subtle, earthy depth.
• ¼ teaspoon ground ginger – Adds a slight zing.
• ¼ teaspoon ground cloves – For aromatic spiciness.

Wet Ingredients:

• 1 cup pumpkin puree – The star of the show, adding moisture, flavor, and a beautiful orange hue.
• ½ cup vegetable oil – Keeps the bread moist and tender.
• 2 large eggs – Bind the ingredients together and add richness.
• 1 cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the bread.
• ½ cup brown sugar, packed – Adds a deeper sweetness and a slight molasses flavor.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor of the bread.

Optional Add-Ins:

• ½ cup chopped nuts (such as walnuts or pecans) – Adds a crunchy texture.
• ½ cup chocolate chips – For a touch of indulgence.
• ½ cup raisins or dried cranberries – Adds a sweet, chewy texture.

Substitutions and Variations

Pumpkin bread is versatile, and you can easily adapt it to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Here are some substitutions and variations you can try:

• Flour Alternatives: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and more fiber. You can also use a gluten-free flour blend to make the bread gluten-free.
• Sugar Alternatives: Use coconut sugar, honey, or maple syrup in place of granulated sugar for a natural sweetener option. Adjust the liquid ingredients slightly if needed.
• Oil Substitutes: Replace vegetable oil with melted coconut oil or unsweetened applesauce for a healthier, lower-fat option.
• Spice Variations: Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking. You can also add a pinch of cardamom or allspice for a different flavor profile.
• Add-Ins: Customize your pumpkin bread with mix-ins like nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit for extra flavor and texture.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Let’s bake this delicious Pumpkin Bread! Follow these simple steps:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Loaf Pan

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. Make sure the spices are well distributed throughout the flour mixture.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

1. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, then add the pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla extract.
2. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well combined. The mixture should be slightly thick and creamy.

Step 4: Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients

1. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the bread dense.
2. If using any optional add-ins (like nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit), gently fold them into the batter at this stage.

Step 5: Pour the Batter into the Loaf Pan

1. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.

Step 6: Bake the Pumpkin Bread

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the bread comes out clean.
2. Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

How to Make Pumpkin Bread: A Step-by-Step Guide

To summarize the process:

1. Preheat the oven and prepare the loaf pan.
2. Whisk together the dry ingredients.
3. Mix the wet ingredients in a separate bowl.
4. Combine the wet and dry ingredients, being careful not to overmix.
5. Fold in any optional add-ins.
6. Pour the batter into the loaf pan and bake for 55-65 minutes.
7. Cool the bread on a wire rack before serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though this pumpkin bread is easy to make, a few common mistakes can affect the final result. Here’s how to avoid them:

• Overmixing the Batter: Stirring the batter too much can result in dense, tough bread. Mix just until the dry ingredients are incorporated.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Make sure your eggs are at room temperature before mixing. Cold eggs can cause the oil to solidify, which can affect the texture of the bread.
• Underbaking: Make sure the bread is fully baked before removing it from the oven. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with just a few crumbs.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Pumpkin Bread is delicious as-is, but here are a few ideas to make it even more special:

• Serve Warm: Pumpkin bread is best enjoyed warm, straight from the oven, with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey.
• Top with a Glaze: For a sweeter treat, drizzle the bread with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk.
• Pair with Coffee or Tea: This bread pairs beautifully with a cup of hot coffee, tea, or even a pumpkin spice latte.

How to Serve Pumpkin Bread

Pumpkin bread is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a snack any time of day. Serve it warm or at room temperature. It’s also great for meal prep—make a loaf on the weekend and enjoy it throughout the week.

Presentation Ideas for Pumpkin Bread

• Serve in Slices: Slice the pumpkin bread and arrange the slices on a platter for a simple, elegant presentation.
• Wrap as Gifts: Wrap individual slices or the whole loaf in parchment paper and tie with twine for a lovely homemade gift.
• Garnish with Nuts or Seeds: Sprinkle some chopped nuts or pumpkin seeds on top of the batter before baking for a decorative touch.

Pumpkin Bread Recipe Tips

• Store Properly: Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer storage, wrap the bread tightly and freeze it for up to 3 months.
• Reheat Before Serving: If you’re storing it, reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to refresh them before serving.
• Double the Recipe: This recipe doubles easily if you want to make an extra loaf to freeze or give as a gift.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I freeze Pumpkin Bread? A: Yes! Pumpkin bread freezes well. Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or reheat in the microwave.

Q: Can I make this bread gluten-free? A: Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure the blend includes a binder like xanthan gum for the best texture.

Q: How can I make this bread healthier? A: You can make this bread healthier by using whole wheat flour, reducing the sugar, and replacing the vegetable oil with unsweetened applesauce or Greek yogurt.

Q: Can I add chocolate chips or nuts to the bread? A: Absolutely! Adding chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even dried cranberries can enhance the flavor and texture of the bread.

Q: How long does Pumpkin Bread last? A: Pumpkin bread will stay fresh for up to 4 days at room temperature if stored in an airtight container. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

Pumpkin bread is the perfect way to celebrate the flavors of fall. This moist, spiced loaf is easy to make and packed with nutritious pumpkin. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, as a snack, or even as dessert, pumpkin bread is sure to satisfy your craving for something sweet and comforting. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile and can be customized with your favorite mix-ins. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to fill your kitchen with the warm, comforting aroma of freshly baked pumpkin bread!

Print