Homemade Pumpkin Bread Recipe

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There’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of pumpkin bread baking in the oven. This moist and flavorful homemade pumpkin bread is spiced to perfection, making it the ideal cozy treat for fall – or anytime you’re craving a taste of autumn! With a blend of warm spices, rich pumpkin puree, and a tender crumb, this recipe is both easy to make and irresistibly delicious. Serve it for breakfast, as an afternoon snack, or even dessert!

Why This Recipe Works

This pumpkin bread recipe balances just the right amount of sweetness and spice, creating a warm, inviting flavor profile that’s perfect for cooler weather. Here’s why you’ll love making (and eating!) this bread:

  • Moist and Tender Texture: The combination of oil and pumpkin puree keeps the bread exceptionally moist.
  • Flavorful Spices: Cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves add depth to the pumpkin flavor, giving the bread a cozy, spiced aroma.
  • Easy to Make: This recipe doesn’t require any fancy equipment – just a bowl and a spoon!
  • Versatile Add-Ins: Optional mix-ins like nuts, chocolate chips, or raisins let you customize it to suit your taste.

What You’ll Need for This Recipe

Wet Ingredients

  • 1 cup canned pumpkin puree: The star ingredient, adding moisture and rich flavor.
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil: Keeps the bread tender and moist. You can substitute melted butter for a richer taste.
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed: Adds a slight caramel note and extra moisture.
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Balances the sweetness without overpowering the pumpkin flavor.
  • 2 large eggs: Provides structure and richness.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor.

Dry Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The base of the bread that provides structure.
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the bread rise.
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: Ensures a light and fluffy texture.
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and pairs perfectly with pumpkin.
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Provides a hint of nuttiness and warmth.
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger: Adds a slight zing to the spice blend.
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves (optional): A bold spice that complements the pumpkin.

Optional Add-Ins

  • 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans: For added crunch and nuttiness.
  • 1/2 cup chocolate chips or raisins: For extra sweetness and texture.

How to Make Homemade Pumpkin Bread

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

  1. Set the Oven Temperature: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Prepare the Loaf Pan: Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper. This helps the bread release easily once baked.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

  1. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, brown sugar, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

  1. Sift and Combine: In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves (if using).
  2. Combine with Wet Mixture: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir until just combined, being careful not to overmix – this will keep the bread light and tender.
  3. Fold in Add-Ins: If you’re using nuts, chocolate chips, or raisins, gently fold them into the batter.

Step 4: Bake the Bread

  1. Pour Batter into Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and use a spatula to smooth the top for even baking.
  2. Bake: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, the bread is done. If the top begins to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with foil for the last 10-15 minutes of baking.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

  1. Cool: Once baked, remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer the loaf to a wire rack to cool completely.
  2. Slice and Enjoy: Once cooled, slice the pumpkin bread and enjoy it plain, with a smear of butter, or even with a dollop of cream cheese for a little extra indulgence.

Tips + Tricks & More for Recipe Success

  • Use Pure Pumpkin Puree: Make sure to use canned pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugars and spices.
  • Do Not Overmix: Overmixing the batter can lead to a denser loaf. Stir until just combined for the best texture.
  • Tent the Bread with Foil: If the top of the bread is browning too quickly, loosely tent it with foil for the last 10-15 minutes of baking to ensure even cooking.
  • Let It Cool Completely: Cooling the bread fully helps it set, making it easier to slice.
  • Adjust Spices to Taste: Feel free to tweak the amount of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, or cloves to your preference!

How to Serve

Pumpkin bread is delicious on its own, but there are a few ways to elevate it even further:

  • With a Spread: Serve slices with softened butter, cream cheese, or even a spiced pumpkin or maple butter.
  • As French Toast: Leftover pumpkin bread makes excellent French toast! Dip slices in a mixture of beaten eggs and milk, then cook on a griddle for a delicious breakfast.
  • Toasted with a Drizzle: Toast a slice and drizzle it with honey or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a sweet treat.
  • With Whipped Cream or Ice Cream: For dessert, serve warm pumpkin bread with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Serving Suggestions

Pumpkin bread is versatile and can be served for breakfast, brunch, snack time, or dessert. Here are some ideas:

  • Breakfast: Pair with a cup of coffee, tea, or hot chocolate for a cozy start to your morning.
  • Brunch: Add it to a brunch spread with fruit, yogurt, and other pastries.
  • Snack: Enjoy a slice in the afternoon with apple cider or spiced tea.
  • Dessert: Serve with a side of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream for an autumn-inspired dessert.

Time

  • Preparation Time: 10-15 minutes
  • Baking Time: 50-60 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes

This homemade pumpkin bread is the perfect way to embrace the flavors of fall. With its warm spices, tender crumb, and moist texture, it’s bound to become a seasonal favorite. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, this pumpkin bread is a comforting treat that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy.

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