Pumpkin Bread Recipe

Nothing says cozy quite like a slice of Pumpkin Bread fresh from the oven. This delightful treat combines the rich, velvety flavor of pumpkin with warm spices that fill your kitchen with an irresistible aroma. The Pumpkin Bread is wonderfully moist and perfectly sweet, making it an ideal companion for your morning coffee or an afternoon indulgence. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, this recipe captures the essence of autumn in every bite and is sure to become one of your go-to comfort foods.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the ingredients just right is the secret to achieving that signature Pumpkin Bread texture and flavor. Each component plays an important role, from the pumpkin puree’s natural moisture to the spices that create that classic autumnal taste.

• All-purpose flour: Acts as the structure for the bread, giving it the perfect crumb.
• Sugar: Sweetens the bread and enhances the pumpkin’s natural flavor.
• Baking soda: A leavening agent that helps the bread rise beautifully.
• Salt: Balances sweetness and heightens the spiced flavors.
• Ground cinnamon: Adds warm, inviting notes that are signature in pumpkin baking.
• Ground nutmeg: Compliments cinnamon with a subtle earthy spice.
• Pumpkin puree: The star ingredient that gives the bread its moist texture and vibrant orange hue.
• Vegetable oil: Keeps the bread tender and helps maintain moisture.
• Large eggs: Bind the ingredients together and provide richness.
• Water: Lightens the batter and ensures a soft crumb.

How to Make Pumpkin Bread

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan to ensure your Pumpkin Bread releases easily once baked, or line it with parchment paper for a fuss-free cleanup.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mixing these ingredients well ensures that each slice of your Pumpkin Bread has a balanced spice profile and even texture.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, beat the eggs with the pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, and water until smooth and well combined. This mixture brings the rich, moist qualities to your bread that make every bite delightful.

Step 4: Bring Wet and Dry Ingredients Together

Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl of dry ingredients, folding gently with a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the bread dense; you want a tender crumb that’s soft and airy.

Step 5: Bake Your Pumpkin Bread

Transfer the batter to your prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 60 to 70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The slow bake allows the flavors to deepen and the texture to develop its signature moist, tender crumb.

Step 6: Cool Before Slicing

Once baked, let your Pumpkin Bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This cooling step helps the bread set, making slicing easier and preventing crumb fall-apart.

How to Serve Pumpkin Bread

Garnishes

One of the best parts about Pumpkin Bread is how wonderfully it pairs with simple garnishes. A pat of creamy butter or a drizzle of honey elevates each slice, while a sprinkle of powdered sugar gives it a pretty, festive touch.

Side Dishes

This Pumpkin Bread shines served alongside a cup of hot chai tea or freshly brewed coffee. For a more substantial snack, consider pairing it with cream cheese spread or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert treat.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice your Pumpkin Bread thickly and toast it lightly for a crispy edge contrast. You can also cut it into cubes and serve as part of a brunch spread with fruit, nuts, and yogurt. Wrapping slices individually makes for perfect grab-and-go gifts during the fall season.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Pumpkin Bread fresh by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or storing it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. It’s an excellent lunchbox addition that stays moist and flavorful.

Freezing

Want to keep your Pumpkin Bread longer? Wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before freezing. It will keep beautifully for up to 3 months and thaw quickly at room temperature whenever you’re ready to enjoy it again.

Reheating

For that freshly baked feel, warm slices of Pumpkin Bread in the toaster or microwave for 10-20 seconds. Adding a touch of butter when reheating makes it taste as wonderful as the day it came out of the oven.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?

Absolutely! Just roast and puree your fresh pumpkin until smooth, then use the same amount as called for in the recipe. Keep in mind that fresh pumpkin might have a bit more moisture, so adjust liquid ingredients slightly if needed.

Is Pumpkin Bread gluten-free friendly?

Traditional Pumpkin Bread uses all-purpose flour, but you can swap in a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking. Just be sure to choose one with xanthan gum included to mimic the structure gluten provides.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to the Pumpkin Bread?

Yes! Adding chopped walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips brings texture and extra flavor. Fold in about 1 cup of your choice mix-ins after combining wet and dry ingredients before baking.

How can I make my Pumpkin Bread more moist?

Using vegetable oil instead of butter helps keep the bread moist, as does making sure not to overbake it. You can also add a tablespoon of yogurt or applesauce to the wet ingredients for an extra tender crumb.

What is the best way to slice Pumpkin Bread without crumbling?

Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing. Using a serrated knife with a gentle sawing motion helps create clean slices without tearing or crumbling the tender bread.

Final Thoughts

This Pumpkin Bread recipe is truly a cozy embrace in every slice, perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying as a comforting treat yourself. Its moist texture, warm spices, and homey appeal make it a must-bake during pumpkin season or any time you crave a little sweet comfort. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and fill your kitchen with that delicious, nostalgic pumpkin aroma.

Print