Pumpkin Bread

My favorite pumpkin bread recipe is a delightful treat that captures the essence of fall. This quick bread is incredibly soft and moist, infused with warm spices that make it perfect for any occasion. Enjoy it fresh out of the oven, paired with your morning coffee or tea, or serve it as a wonderful snack throughout the day. Its irresistible aroma and inviting flavors will surely have everyone coming back for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make – This pumpkin bread comes together in just one bowl and requires minimal prep time.
• Delicious Flavor – The combination of spices brings warmth and comfort, making each bite a true delight.
• Versatile Treat – Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert—this bread suits any time of day.
• Healthy Ingredients – Made with wholesome ingredients, it’s a guilt-free indulgence you can enjoy.
• Perfect for Sharing – Bake a loaf to share with friends and family during gatherings or holidays.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious pumpkin bread, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools that streamline the process and ensure great results.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Rubber spatula
• Loaf pan
• Wire rack

Why These Tools Matter

• Mixing bowls – A good set lets you easily combine ingredients without mess.
• Whisk – Perfect for achieving a smooth batter by mixing wet ingredients effectively.
• Rubber spatula – Ideal for folding ingredients gently without overmixing.

Ingredients

My favorite pumpkin bread recipe! This quick bread is soft, moist and filled with warm spices. It’s perfect for fall baking, and so good with a cup of coffee or tea.

For the Bread

• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
• 1 cup canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
• ½ cup honey or pure maple syrup
• 2 large eggs
• ¼ cup milk (of choice (dairy, almond, etc.))
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cups white whole wheat flour (or whole wheat flour or all-purpose flour)
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground allspice
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ¼ teaspoon ground cloves

How to Make Pumpkin Bread

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350° F. Prepare a 9×5-inch loaf pan by spraying it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, melt the butter (you can do this in the microwave). Once melted, add in the pumpkin puree and honey (or maple syrup). Whisk these ingredients together until well combined. Next, incorporate the eggs, milk, and vanilla extract into the mixture.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, allspice, nutmeg, and cloves until everything is evenly distributed.

Step 4: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Carefully fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a rubber spatula. Be cautious not to overmix; you want just enough blending until everything is combined.

Step 5: Bake the Bread

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Bake in your preheated oven for about 50-55 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when done. Watch closely to avoid overbaking.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Allow your pumpkin bread to cool in the pan on a wire rack for about 15 minutes. Carefully remove it from the pan and let it cool completely before slicing. Enjoy your deliciously moist pumpkin bread!

How to Serve Pumpkin Bread

Pumpkin bread is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re having it for breakfast, dessert, or as a snack, there are plenty of serving options to enhance its flavors.

Toasted with Butter

• Warm and Buttery: Toast a slice and spread some softened butter on top for a rich, comforting flavor.

Pair with Cream Cheese

• Creamy Delight: Spread a layer of cream cheese for a tangy contrast that complements the spices in the bread.

Enjoy with Coffee or Tea

• Perfect Beverage Pairing: Serve slices alongside your favorite coffee or tea to elevate your afternoon break.

Add Fresh Fruit

• Fruity Freshness: Top with slices of fresh pear or apple for added texture and sweetness.

Make a Breakfast Sandwich

• Savory Touch: Use pumpkin bread as the base for a breakfast sandwich with scrambled eggs and cheese.

Serve Warm

• Fresh from the Oven: Enjoy slices warm out of the oven to fully appreciate the fragrant spices.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Bread

Perfecting pumpkin bread involves attention to detail and a few key techniques. Here are some tips to ensure your pumpkin bread turns out moist and flavorful every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Make sure your baking powder and spices are fresh for optimal flavor and rise.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined; overmixing can lead to tough bread.
• Check Doneness Early: Begin checking for doneness 5-10 minutes before the suggested bake time to avoid overbaking.
• Store Properly: Keep leftover pumpkin bread in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain moisture.
• Experiment with Spices: Adjust spice levels according to your taste preference for a personalized flavor profile.
• Add Nuts or Chocolate Chips: Fold in walnuts or chocolate chips for added texture and richness.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Bread

Pumpkin bread pairs well with many side dishes that complement its warm flavors. Here are some great options to consider when serving this delicious treat.

1. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a nutritious side.
2. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette balances the sweetness of the bread.
3. Cheese Platter: Offer a selection of cheeses like Brie or goat cheese for savory contrast.
4. Apple Slices with Cinnamon Sugar: Fresh apple slices sprinkled with cinnamon sugar add crunch and sweetness.
5. Chai Latte: This spiced tea drink enhances the warm flavors of pumpkin bread beautifully.
6. Cottage Cheese Bowl: Serve cottage cheese topped with honey and nuts for protein-rich goodness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When baking pumpkin bread, it’s easy to overlook key steps that can affect the final product. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Ignoring ingredient temperature: Using cold ingredients can prevent your batter from mixing properly. Always bring your eggs and milk to room temperature before you start.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much will lead to tough bread. Stir just until the ingredients are combined for a soft texture.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Spoon and level your flour instead of scooping directly from the bag, which can pack it down and result in dense bread.
• Skipping the testing step: Testing for doneness is essential. Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, your bread is ready.
• Not cooling properly: Allowing the bread to cool in the pan too long can cause sogginess. Transfer it to a wire rack after 15 minutes.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover pumpkin bread in an airtight container.
• It can last in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Freezing Pumpkin Bread

• Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• It can be frozen for up to three months.

Reheating Pumpkin Bread

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm slices on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices for about 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this pumpkin bread recipe special?

This pumpkin bread is moist, soft, and packed with spices, making it perfect for fall gatherings or anytime you crave a delicious treat.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin puree! Just ensure it is well-pureed and not watery.

How can I customize my pumpkin bread?

Feel free to add nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits to enhance flavor and texture.

Is this pumpkin bread healthy?

This recipe includes wholesome ingredients like whole wheat flour and natural sweeteners, making it a healthier choice compared to many other desserts.

Conclusion

This pumpkin bread recipe is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. Perfect as a breakfast option or a sweet snack, you can customize it with your favorite mix-ins. Give it a try; you won’t regret adding this delightful loaf to your baking repertoire!

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