Pumpkin Bread

Nothing says autumn quite like the sweet and spicy aroma of freshly baked pumpkin bread wafting through your home. This delightful treat is not only a feast for the senses but also a comforting companion for chilly days. Unlike traditional banana bread, pumpkin bread offers the unique taste of real pumpkin combined with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. Fun fact: did you know that pumpkin bread became popular in the United States during the 20th century? It quickly established itself as a beloved staple, especially around Halloween and Thanksgiving.

Pumpkin bread is special because it combines simplicity with flavor, allowing you to whip up a batch in just about an hour. It’s family-friendly too! Perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or even dessert, it’s loved by adults and kids alike. If you enjoy simple yet flavorful recipes like our classic banana bread, you’ll definitely want to keep this pumpkin bread recipe in your rotation. So go ahead, embrace the fall flavors and give this recipe a try!

What is Pumpkin Bread?

So, what’s the deal with pumpkin bread? Is it a cake? Is it a loaf? Well, my friends, it’s a little bit of both! This delightful creation combines all the elements of a flavorful cake but is baked in a loaf form, making it perfect for enjoying at any time of day. It gets its distinct name from the star ingredient—pumpkin! Have you ever heard the saying, “The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach”? Well, with pumpkin bread, you might just capture everyone’s heart! After all, who can resist a slice of this moist and spiced goodness? Ready to share in the joy of baking? Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Bread

There are so many reasons to love pumpkin bread! First and foremost, its standout feature is its lovely blend of spices that creates a warm and inviting flavor profile. With every bite, you’ll enjoy the cozy essence of autumn, perfect for snuggling up with a book or sharing over coffee with friends.

Additionally, making pumpkin bread at home is a terrific way to save money. Store-bought baked goods can be quite pricey, but this recipe allows you to savor the same heartwarming taste at a fraction of the cost—all while filling your home with that delightful baking aroma! And if you’re feeling playful, dress up your pumpkin bread with delicious toppings like a drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of chopped nuts.

If you love indulgent treats like our chocolate chip banana muffins, this pumpkin bread will surely win a place in your heart. So, why not whip up a loaf today and relish in the warmth and flavor?

How to Make Pumpkin Bread

Quick Overview

This pumpkin bread recipe is not only easy but also incredibly satisfying! You’ll be amazed at how quickly you can transform simple ingredients into a beautifully moist loaf. In just about 10 minutes of prep time and 60 minutes of baking, your pumpkin bread will be ready to share with family and friends. It’s a delicious solution for those looking to create a homemade treat without the fuss.

Key Ingredients for Pumpkin Bread

• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon nutmeg
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup pure pumpkin puree (canned or fresh)
• ½ cup vegetable oil (or melted butter)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Set it aside.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, mix the granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep your bread light and fluffy.
5. Pour and Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 55-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Cool and Enjoy: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Let it cool completely, then slice and enjoy!

What to Serve Pumpkin Bread With

Pumpkin bread is versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Serve it warm with a smear of cream cheese or a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful breakfast treat. If you’re hosting friends for tea, why not include it with a robust cup of chai or an herbal tea to complement its warm flavors?

For dessert, you can pair pumpkin bread with vanilla ice cream or even drizzle it with chocolate sauce for an indulgent experience. The options are endless!

Top Tips for Perfecting Pumpkin Bread

Here are some handy tips to ensure your pumpkin bread turns out perfectly every time:

• Freshness Matters: Use fresh pumpkin puree for an earthier flavor, but canned pumpkin is convenient and just as delicious!
• Spice It Up: Feel free to add your own twist! Consider adding chopped walnuts or chocolate chips for extra texture and flavor.
• Watch the Baking: Keep an eye on the bread during the last few minutes of baking; ovens vary, and you want to avoid over-baking.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Leftover pumpkin bread can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, you can slice the bread, wrap each slice in plastic wrap, and place it in a freezer-safe bag. It will stay fresh in the freezer for up to three months.

When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply pop a slice in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds to revive its warmth and moisture.

Conclusion

Now that you have all the essentials for making the best pumpkin bread, what are you waiting for? This delicious recipe is not only easy to make but is sure to bring warmth and joy to your kitchen. So grab your ingredients, unleash your inner baker, and dive into the world of flavor that only homemade pumpkin bread can offer. Happy baking!

Pumpkin Bread

This delightful pumpkin bread combines real pumpkin with warm spices for a comforting treat perfect for fall.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr

Total Time 1 hour hr 10 minutes mins

Servings: 8 slices

Course: Breakfast, Dessert, Snack

Cuisine: American, Autumn

Calories: 180

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Dry Ingredients

• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour Sifted for better texture.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon Ground.
• ½ teaspoon nutmeg Ground.
• ½ teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup brown sugar Packed.
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup pure pumpkin puree Canned or fresh.
• ½ cup vegetable oil Can substitute with melted butter.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Set it aside.
3. In another bowl, mix the granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep your bread light and fluffy.

Baking

1. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
2. Bake for 55-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
3. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Let it cool completely, then slice and enjoy!

Notes

For a delightful experience, serve warm with cream cheese or whipped cream. Leftover pumpkin bread can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze slices and reheat in the microwave.