Looking for the perfect fall bake? This Pumpkin Bread Recipe delivers a moist, warmly spiced loaf that’s quick to make and even quicker to disappear! Made in one bowl with canned pumpkin and cozy spices, this bread is ideal for breakfast, dessert, or afternoon coffee breaks.
With a soft crumb, just the right amount of sweetness, and a rich pumpkin flavor, this classic loaf is a crowd-pleaser. It also freezes well and makes the perfect seasonal gift. Whether you enjoy it plain or topped with cream cheese, butter, or glaze, one slice won’t be enough!
Ingredients:
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- 2 large eggs
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar (light or dark)
- 1 ½ cups canned pumpkin purée (not pie filling)
- ½ cup vegetable oil (or melted butter)
- ¼ cup milk (any kind)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line with parchment paper.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. Set aside.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until well combined. Add the pumpkin purée, oil, milk, and vanilla. Stir until smooth.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry
- Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir just until combined—do not overmix.
Step 5: Bake
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Cool
- Let the bread cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Variation:
- Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread: Stir in ¾ cup chocolate chips.
- Nutty Version: Add ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans.
- Cream Cheese Swirl: Add a layer of sweetened cream cheese in the middle.
- Streusel Topping: Mix flour, butter, and brown sugar to create a crunchy top.
- Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour substitute.
COOKING Note:
Be sure to use pure pumpkin purée, not pumpkin pie filling. Overmixing the batter can cause a tough texture, so mix until just combined for the fluffiest result.
Serving Suggestions:
- Warm with butter: A classic way to enjoy it for breakfast or a snack.
- With cream cheese: A spread of cream cheese adds tangy richness.
- Toasted with honey or jam: Add sweetness and flavor depth.
- As a dessert: Serve with whipped cream or a drizzle of glaze.
- With coffee: Pumpkin bread and a latte = perfect fall morning.
Tips:
- Bring eggs to room temperature for smoother mixing.
- Don’t open the oven early—check only after 50 minutes.
- Store tightly wrapped at room temperature for up to 4 days.
- Wrap cooled slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
- To avoid a domed top cracking, tap the pan gently on the counter before baking.
⏱️ Time Overview:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Bake Time: 60 minutes
- Cool Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: ~1 hour 10 minutes (active) / 2+ hours including cooling
🍽️ Nutritional Information (per slice, 10 slices):
- Calories: ~250
- Protein: ~3g
- Carbohydrates: ~34g
- Fat: ~11g
- Fiber: ~2g
- Sugar: ~18g
- Sodium: ~210mg
Based on standard ingredients; may vary with additions.
❓FAQs
Can I make this ahead?
- Yes! It keeps well at room temperature for 3–4 days or can be frozen for later.
Can I use fresh pumpkin purée?
- Yes, just make sure it’s thick and not watery. Drain if needed before using.
Can I double the recipe?
- Absolutely. Bake in two loaf pans and freeze one for later.
Why did my bread sink in the middle?
- This may happen if it’s underbaked. Be sure to test doneness with a toothpick before removing from the oven.
Can I make muffins with this batter?
- Yes! Scoop into muffin tins and bake at 350°F for 20–22 minutes.
Conclusion:
This classic Pumpkin Bread Recipe is everything you want in a fall bake—soft, flavorful, moist, and simple to make. Whether you enjoy it plain or dressed up with add-ins, it’s a must-have recipe for your autumn (or year-round!) rotation.
Perfect for cozy mornings, family gatherings, holiday treats, or homemade gifts, this pumpkin bread is a versatile and irresistible loaf that never goes out of style