Easy Pumpkin Bread Recipe

Cozy Homemade Pumpkin Bread Recipe: Autumn’s Golden Delight

Autumn’s warmth fills your kitchen with an irresistible pumpkin bread aroma that instantly sparks cozy memories.

Crisp leaves and chilly mornings call for something comforting and sweet.

Spices like cinnamon and nutmeg dance through this classic recipe, promising pure comfort in every slice.

Soft, moist textures mingle with rich seasonal flavors that feel like a warm hug.

Simple ingredients come together to create magic in your mixing bowl.

Home baking doesn’t get easier or more delightful than this delectable treat.

You’ll fall in love with how quickly this recipe comes together and fills your space with incredible scents.

One bite, and you’ll understand why this pumpkin bread becomes an instant favorite.

Why Pumpkin Bread Is a Classic Treat

  • Craft with Ease: Perfect for bakers of all skill levels, this pumpkin bread recipe requires minimal technical expertise and basic kitchen tools.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Delivers warm, spicy flavors that appeal to both kids and adults, making it an ideal treat for family gatherings or cozy afternoons.
  • Seasonal Delight: Celebrates autumn's rich flavors with classic spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, transforming simple ingredients into a nostalgic experience.
  • Make-Ahead Magic: Stores beautifully at room temperature, allowing you to prepare in advance and enjoy throughout the week for quick breakfasts or sweet snacks.

Ingredients for Moist Pumpkin Bread

Dry Ingredients:
  • All-Purpose Flour: A staple ingredient that provides structure and texture to the pumpkin bread.
  • Baking Soda: Helps the bread rise and creates a light, fluffy texture.
  • Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the bread.
Spices:
  • Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Cloves, Ginger: A warm blend of spices that gives the pumpkin bread its classic fall flavor profile.
Wet Ingredients:
  • Pumpkin Puree: The star ingredient that provides moisture and rich pumpkin flavor to the bread.
  • Granulated Sugar, Brown Sugar: Sweeteners that add depth and caramel-like notes to the bread.
  • Vegetable Oil: Keeps the bread moist and tender.
  • Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and provide structure.
  • Milk: Adds moisture and helps create a smooth batter.
  • Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor with its sweet, aromatic notes.

How to Bake Pumpkin Bread

Step 1: Prepare Baking Equipment

Warm up your oven to 350F (175C). Grab a 9×5 inch loaf pan and coat it generously with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

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

Ensure all ingredients are thoroughly combined with no lumps.

Step 3: Blend Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine:
  • Pumpkin puree
  • Granulated sugar
  • Brown sugar
  • Vegetable oil

Crack eggs into the mixture one at a time, beating well after each addition.

Pour in milk and vanilla extract, stirring until everything is smooth and well incorporated.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Slowly add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients.

Gently fold and mix until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender.

Step 5: Pour and Smooth Batter

Transfer the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Use a spatula to spread the mixture evenly and create a smooth top.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Place the pan in the preheated oven. Bake for 60-70 minutes.

Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center – it should come out clean when the bread is fully baked.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Remove the bread from the oven.

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

Tips for Soft and Flavorful Pumpkin Bread

  • Swap vegetable oil with melted coconut oil for a richer, slightly nutty flavor profile that complements the pumpkin wonderfully.
  • Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and texture, creating a delightful contrast to the soft bread.
  • Check doneness early by inserting a toothpick at 55 minutes to prevent potential over-baking, ensuring a moist and tender result.
  • Sprinkle raw turbinado sugar on top before baking for a beautiful, crispy golden crust that adds subtle sweetness and visual appeal.
  • Store wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain optimal moisture and freshness.

Variations for Pumpkin Bread

  • Gluten-Free Pumpkin Bread: Replace wheat flour with almond flour or gluten-free blend for a celiac-friendly option.
  • Vegan Pumpkin Bread: Swap eggs with flax eggs, use coconut oil instead of vegetable oil, and choose plant-based milk.
  • Nutty Pumpkin Bread: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for extra crunch and flavor complexity.
  • Low-Sugar Pumpkin Bread: Reduce sugar content by using stevia or monk fruit sweetener, and incorporate unsweetened applesauce for moisture.

Serving Suggestions for Pumpkin Bread

  • Cozy Breakfast Companion: Slice the pumpkin bread and serve alongside a steaming cup of hot coffee or chai tea for a warm morning treat that embraces autumn flavors.
  • Dessert Upgrade: Transform the bread into an elegant dessert by topping each slice with a dollop of whipped cream, a sprinkle of cinnamon, and a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra indulgence.
  • Afternoon Tea Delight: Cut the bread into thin finger sandwiches and pair with cream cheese spread, creating a delightful snack perfect for afternoon gatherings or casual get-togethers with friends.
  • Festive Gift Idea: Wrap individual slices in parchment paper, tie with a rustic twine, and present as a homemade holiday gift that showcases your baking skills and spreads seasonal cheer.

How to Store Pumpkin Bread Fresh

  • Store leftover pumpkin bread in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days.
  • Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to maintain moisture and prevent drying out.
  • Refrigerate for extended freshness, keeping the bread good for up to a week.
  • Freeze sliced or whole bread in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

FAQs

  • Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?

Yes, you can! Simply roast, peel, and puree fresh pumpkin until smooth. Make sure to drain excess moisture to maintain the bread’s texture.

  • Is this pumpkin bread recipe suitable for vegans?

No, the recipe contains eggs and milk. To make it vegan, you’ll need to substitute eggs with flax eggs and use plant-based milk.

  • How can I make the pumpkin bread more nutritious?

Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to increase protein and healthy fats. You can also incorporate whole wheat flour for extra fiber.

  • Can I freeze pumpkin bread for later?

Absolutely! Wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. It will stay fresh in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Print
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Easy Pumpkin Bread Recipe

Easy Pumpkin Bread Recipe


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4.7 from 24 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Warm autumn days welcome this delectable pumpkin bread recipe that brings comfort to kitchen counters. Spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg, each slice offers rich flavors you will savor with pure delight.


Ingredients

Scale

Pumpkin Bread Ingredients:

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 3/4 cups (220 grams) all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup (245 grams) pumpkin puree
  • 1 cup (200 grams) granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup (100 grams) brown sugar

Wet Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) vegetable oil
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup (60 milliliters) milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Spices and Leavening:

  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger

Instructions

  1. Prepare the oven to 350F (175C) and coat a 9×5 inch loaf pan with grease for optimal bread release.
  2. Combine all dry ingredients – flour, baking soda, salt, and warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger – in a medium mixing bowl, whisking thoroughly to distribute evenly.
  3. In a separate large bowl, blend pumpkin puree with both granulated and brown sugars, then incorporate oil until smooth and well-integrated.
  4. Introduce eggs individually to the pumpkin mixture, ensuring complete incorporation after each addition, then gently fold in milk and vanilla extract for enhanced flavor complexity.
  5. Gradually fold dry ingredients into wet mixture, stirring minimally to prevent overworking the batter, which could result in dense bread.
  6. Transfer batter into prepared loaf pan, using a spatula to create an even, smooth surface for consistent baking.
  7. Bake for 60-70 minutes, monitoring doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center – it should emerge clean when bread is fully cooked.
  8. Allow bread to rest in the pan for 10 minutes, then carefully transfer to a wire rack, permitting complete cooling before slicing to maintain structural integrity.

Notes

  • Switch out regular flour with gluten-free flour blend for a celiac-friendly version that maintains the same soft, moist texture.
  • Reduce sugar content by using half the amount of granulated and brown sugar, or substitute with natural sweeteners like maple syrup or honey for a healthier twist.
  • Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for extra crunch and nutty flavor, which enhances the overall taste profile of the pumpkin bread.
  • Consider using coconut oil instead of vegetable oil to create a richer, more complex flavor and boost nutritional value with healthy medium-chain triglycerides.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast, Snacks, Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 211 kcal
  • Sugar: 17 g
  • Sodium: 146 mg
  • Fat: 9 g
  • Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 30 g
  • Fiber: 1.5 g
  • Protein: 3 g
  • Cholesterol: 37 mg
John Conley

John Conley

Founder & Culinary Storyteller

Expertise

Recipe Development, Culinary Writing, Home Cooking Techniques, Seasonal Ingredient Utilization​

Education

Lane Community College, Eugene, OR
​Certificate in Culinary Arts
Focused on foundational cooking techniques, kitchen safety, and menu planning.

​Gotham Writers Workshop, New York, NY
Course in Food Writing
Explored the art of crafting engaging culinary narratives and recipe development.


John grew up where food meant connection: big bowls, warm kitchens, and meals that told a story. After earning his Certificate in Culinary Arts from Lane Community College and diving deep into food writing at Gotham Writers Workshop, he found his calling: turning everyday recipes into something worth savoring.
At The Liffey, John’s focus is all about crafting dishes that feel easy, honest, and full of heart.

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