Pumpkin Bread

Pumpkin bread is a warm, comforting treat, packed with the flavors of autumn spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. The pumpkin adds a soft, moist texture, making this bread ideal for breakfast, as a snack, or even dessert. Serve it warm with butter or enjoy a slice with your favorite cup of tea or coffee.

What Is Pumpkin Bread?

Pumpkin bread is a quick bread made with pumpkin puree and spices, offering a moist, rich texture. The combination of sweet and spiced flavors makes this loaf a fall favorite, often enjoyed at gatherings or as a cozy afternoon treat.

Ingredients for the Recipe

You’ll need the following to make this bread:

1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon cinnamon
½ teaspoon nutmeg
½ teaspoon ground ginger
¼ teaspoon ground cloves
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup pumpkin puree
1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup brown sugar
2 large eggs
½ cup vegetable oil
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

These ingredients create a deliciously moist, spiced loaf that’s perfect for any fall occasion.

Health Benefits of Pumpkin

Pumpkin is rich in vitamins and minerals, especially vitamin A and fiber, making it a healthy addition to baked goods. It provides moisture to the bread, allowing for a softer texture without the need for excessive fats.

For more seasonal recipes, check out these Pumpkin Bread Truffles for a fun twist on the classic flavor.

How to Make Pumpkin Bread

Follow these simple steps to make this bread:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, spices, and salt.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, mix the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, oil, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Step 4: Bake the Bread

Gradually combine the dry ingredients with the wet mixture, stirring just until incorporated. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 55–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the bread cool before serving.

For another comforting recipe, try this Caramel Peach Upside-Down Cake for a sweet and fruity treat.

Variations

Here are a few ideas to personalize the recipe:

Add-ins: Stir in chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit for extra texture and flavor.
Healthier version: Use whole wheat flour or replace part of the sugar with honey or maple syrup.
Cream cheese swirl: For a richer loaf, add a layer of cream cheese filling before baking.

When to Serve Pumpkin Bread

Pumpkin bread is great for:

Fall celebrations: Serve it during holidays or as part of a fall-themed gathering.
Cozy snacks: Enjoy a slice with your afternoon tea or coffee.
Breakfast: Toasted with a little butter for a delicious morning treat.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make sure your bread turns out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes:

Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf. Stir just until combined.
Not measuring flour correctly: Too much flour can make the bread dry, so be sure to measure it accurately.
Overbaking: Check the bread toward the end of the baking time to avoid drying it out.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, pumpkin bread can be made in advance and stored at room temperature for up to 3 days.

2. Can it be frozen?
Absolutely! Wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.

3. How do I keep it moist?
Using oil instead of butter and not overbaking will help keep the bread moist.

Conclusion

Pumpkin bread is a must-try for fall, offering the perfect blend of warm spices and tender texture. Whether served at a holiday gathering or enjoyed as an everyday snack, this easy-to-make loaf is sure to become a seasonal favorite.

For more fall-inspired treats, try this Ultimate Pumpkin Spice Latte for a cozy beverage to pair with your slice of bread.