Pumpkin Bread

This homemade pumpkin bread is moist, flavorful, and packed with warm spices that make it the perfect fall treat. Whether enjoyed for breakfast, as a snack, or even dessert, this loaf is easy to make and bursting with pumpkin flavor. With its soft texture and rich aroma, it’s a comforting and delicious way to embrace the season.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Moist & Flavorful: Pumpkin puree keeps the bread soft and tender.
• Easy to Make: One bowl and simple ingredients make this a no-fuss recipe.
• Perfectly Spiced: Cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves bring out the best fall flavors.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Stays fresh for days and freezes well.
• Customizable: Add chocolate chips, nuts, or a streusel topping for extra indulgence.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
• All-purpose flour
• Brown sugar
• Granulated sugar
• Eggs (or flax eggs for a vegan option)
• Vegetable oil or melted butter
• Baking soda
• Baking powder
• Ground cinnamon
• Ground nutmeg
• Ground cloves
• Vanilla extract
• Salt

Directions

1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, brown sugar, granulated sugar, eggs, oil, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.
4. Combine: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
5. Pour & Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Cool & Enjoy: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Makes 1 loaf (about 10 slices)
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Bake Time: 50-60 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Variations

• Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread: Stir in ½ cup of chocolate chips for a sweeter treat.
• Nutty Pumpkin Bread: Add ½ cup of chopped pecans or walnuts for extra crunch.
• Pumpkin Streusel Bread: Top with a cinnamon-sugar streusel before baking.
• Healthy Pumpkin Bread: Use whole wheat flour and replace some sugar with honey or maple syrup.
• Gluten-Free Option: Swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend.

Storage/Reheating

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerator: Keeps for up to a week when wrapped tightly.
• Freezer: Wrap slices individually and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Reheating: Warm slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for a fresh-from-the-oven taste.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned puree?

Yes! Roast and mash fresh pumpkin, then measure the same amount as canned puree.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water per egg).

How do I make the bread extra moist?

Use oil instead of butter and don’t overbake. Pumpkin itself helps keep it moist.

Can I make muffins instead of a loaf?

Yes! Divide the batter into a muffin tin and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 18-22 minutes.

Why did my pumpkin bread sink in the middle?

It may have been underbaked, or the batter was overmixed. Make sure to check doneness with a toothpick.

Can I reduce the sugar?

Yes, but reducing too much may affect texture. Try substituting half with honey or maple syrup.

What spices work best in pumpkin bread?

Cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, ginger, and allspice all pair well with pumpkin.

How do I know when my pumpkin bread is done?

A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes! Simply double the ingredients and bake in two loaf pans.

How do I prevent the bread from sticking to the pan?

Grease the pan well or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Conclusion

Pumpkin bread is a classic, cozy treat that’s easy to make and full of warm autumn flavors. Whether you enjoy it plain, with add-ins, or toasted with a spread of butter, this loaf is sure to become a seasonal favorite. Try it for breakfast, dessert, or as a sweet snack—it’s perfect any time of day!

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