Best Pumpkin Bread Recipe

Cozy Autumn Pumpkin Bread Recipe for Golden Fall Moments

Baking a delightful pumpkin bread can transport you to cozy autumn afternoons with its warm, comforting aroma.

Crisp leaves and gentle breezes whisper memories of seasonal delights.

Nutmeg and cinnamon dance through your kitchen, creating an inviting atmosphere that beckons everyone near.

Soft, moist crumbs promise a delectable treat that melts in your mouth.

Each slice carries the essence of fall’s rich, earthy flavors.

Imagine sharing this homemade goodness with loved ones, creating moments of pure joy.

You’ll fall in love with this simple yet magical recipe that turns ordinary ingredients into something extraordinary.

Classic Pumpkin Bread Highlights

  • Savor Seasonal Comfort: Dive into a warm slice of autumn's favorite quick bread, packed with rich pumpkin flavor and cozy spices that instantly transport you to crisp fall afternoons.
  • Master Beginner-Friendly Baking: This recipe welcomes novice bakers with simple mixing techniques and straightforward ingredients, making it perfect for building confidence in the kitchen.
  • Create Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or weekend brunches, this pumpkin bread delights everyone from kids to grandparents with its moist texture and nostalgic taste.
  • Versatile Snacking Solution: Enjoy as a breakfast companion, afternoon pick-me-up, or dessert – this adaptable bread works wonderfully for multiple occasions and satisfies sweet cravings anytime.

Pumpkin Bread Ingredient Checklist

Primary Ingredients:
  • Pumpkin Puree: A smooth and creamy base that provides moisture and rich autumn flavor to the bread.
  • Flour: The foundational ingredient that gives structure and texture to the pumpkin bread.
  • Eggs: Help bind the ingredients and provide richness and structure to the bread.
  • Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a tender crumb in the pumpkin bread.
  • Vegetable Oil: Ensures the bread remains moist and soft throughout baking.
Spices and Seasonings:
  • Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Cloves: A warm blend of spices that enhance the classic pumpkin bread flavor profile.
  • Salt: Balances the sweetness and brings out the depth of flavors in the bread.
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds a subtle, aromatic sweetness that complements the pumpkin and spices.
Leavening and Liquid Ingredients:
  • Baking Soda: Helps the bread rise and creates a light, airy texture.
  • Milk: Adds moisture and contributes to the smooth consistency of the batter.

Stepwise Pumpkin Bread Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Baking Setup

Warm up your oven to 350°F. Grab a 9×5 inch loaf pan and coat it with a light layer of cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

Grab a medium mixing bowl and whisk together these dry ingredients:
  • All-purpose flour
  • Baking soda
  • Salt
  • Ground cinnamon
  • Ground nutmeg
  • Ground cloves

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, blend these ingredients until they create a smooth mixture:
  • Pumpkin puree
  • Brown sugar
  • Granulated sugar
  • Eggs
  • Vegetable oil
  • Milk
  • Vanilla extract

Step 4: Create Batter

Slowly fold the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients. Stir gently until everything is just combined.

Avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender.

Step 5: Fill Loaf Pan

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.

Use a spatula to spread it evenly across the pan.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Place the pan in the preheated oven.

Bake for 55-65 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center – it should come out clean when the bread is ready.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Let the bread rest in the pan for 10 minutes. Carefully transfer to a wire rack and allow it to cool completely before slicing.

Tips for Moist Pumpkin Bread

  • Swap vegetable oil with coconut oil for a healthier twist and subtle tropical flavor.
  • Reduce sugar by using ripe mashed bananas or unsweetened applesauce to cut calories.
  • Add chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and nutritional boost.
  • Check doneness early by testing with a toothpick around 50 minutes to prevent overcooking.
  • Store wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to maintain moisture for 3-4 days at room temperature.

Creative Twists on Pumpkin Bread

  • Gluten-Free Pumpkin Bread: Replace wheat flour with almond flour or gluten-free blend for a celiac-friendly version.
  • Vegan Pumpkin Bread: Swap eggs with flax eggs, use coconut oil instead of regular oil, and choose plant-based milk.
  • Low-Sugar Pumpkin Bread: Reduce sugar content by using stevia or monk fruit sweetener, and add extra spices for flavor depth.
  • Nutty Pumpkin Bread: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for added crunch and protein boost.

Serving Ideas for Pumpkin Bread

  • Cozy Autumn Breakfast Companion: Slice the warm pumpkin bread and pair it with a steaming cup of coffee or chai tea for a delightful morning treat.
  • Elegant Dessert Platter: Arrange thin slices on a beautiful serving plate, dust with powdered sugar, and add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for a sophisticated dessert experience.
  • Breakfast Toast Twist: Toast a slice and spread cream cheese or maple butter for a quick and delicious breakfast option that transforms the bread into a gourmet morning bite.
  • Gifting Delight: Wrap individual slices in parchment paper, tie with a rustic twine, and share with friends as a homemade seasonal gift that spreads warmth and comfort.

Storage Advice for Pumpkin Bread

  • Store leftover pumpkin bread wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil at room temperature for 2-3 days.
  • Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to one week, maintaining its moisture and freshness.
  • Freeze sliced or whole bread in freezer-safe bags or wrapped in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for 2-3 months.
  • Reheat refrigerated or thawed bread by warming in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in a preheated oven at 300F for 5-10 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

  • Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned puree?

Yes, you can! Simply roast, peel, and puree fresh pumpkin until smooth. Just ensure it’s well-drained to prevent excess moisture.

  • Is it possible to make this bread gluten-free?

Absolutely! Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Add xanthan gum if the blend doesn’t include it.

  • How do I know if my pumpkin bread is fully baked?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the bread. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, the bread is done. Wet batter means it needs more baking time.

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Best Pumpkin Bread Recipe

Best Pumpkin Bread Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 13 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Homemade pumpkin bread showcases autumn’s warmth with rich spices and moist texture. Fragrant slices promise comfort and nostalgia, inviting you to savor seasonal baking delights.


Ingredients

Scale

Pumpkin Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 cups pumpkin puree

Wet Ingredients:

  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 1/4 cup milk (60 milliliters)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Dry Ingredients:

  • 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

Instructions

  1. Prepare the oven by heating to 350F (175C) and coating a 9×5 inch loaf pan with grease to prevent sticking.
  2. Combine all dry ingredients – flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves – in a medium mixing bowl, whisking thoroughly to distribute spices evenly.
  3. In a separate large bowl, blend pumpkin puree, sugars, eggs, oil, milk, and vanilla extract until the mixture achieves a silky, uniform consistency.
  4. Slowly incorporate the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined to maintain a tender bread texture.
  5. Transfer the prepared batter into the greased loaf pan, ensuring an even distribution for consistent baking.
  6. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 55-65 minutes, checking doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center – it should emerge clean without any raw batter.
  7. Allow the bread to rest in the pan for 10 minutes, which helps it set and prevents crumbling, then carefully remove and transfer to a wire rack for complete cooling.

Notes

  • Swap out oil for unsweetened applesauce to reduce fat content and create a lighter texture.
  • Add chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and nutty flavor without overwhelming the pumpkin essence.
  • Use gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe celiac-friendly and equally delicious for those with wheat sensitivities.
  • Enhance moisture by not overmixing the batter, which can develop tough gluten strands and create a dense final product.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 60 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast, Snacks, Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 224
  • Sugar: 20 g
  • Sodium: 204 mg
  • Fat: 10 g
  • Saturated Fat: 1.6 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8.4 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 32 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 3.5 g
  • Cholesterol: 37 mg
Amanda Bennett

Amanda Bennett

Recipe Curator & Culinary Educator

Expertise

Baking and Pastry Arts, Recipe Testing and Development, Culinary Instruction, Food Styling and Photography

Education

​Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College, Asheville, NC
​Diploma in Culinary Arts
Emphasized practical cooking skills, nutrition, and kitchen management.​

Cambridge School of Culinary Arts, Cambridge, MA
Certificate in Professional Pastry Arts
Specialized in baking techniques, dessert presentation, and flavor profiling


Amanda’s roots run deep in the Southern hills, where every meal started fresh from the garden and every dessert came with a story. She trained at Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College and sharpened her pastry skills at the Cambridge School of Culinary Arts, blending classic technique with everyday charm.
At The Liffey, Amanda’s passion is making baking and home cooking feel natural and joyful. She’s all about single recipes that are simple enough for a busy afternoon, but special enough to make someone’s day a little sweeter.

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