Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Streusel Bread Recipe

If you are looking for a cozy, irresistible treat that combines the rich flavors of fall with a touch of chocolatey goodness, this Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Streusel Bread Recipe is exactly what you need. Soft, moist pumpkin bread studded with melty chocolate chips and crowned with a crisp, buttery cinnamon streusel topping creates a delightful taste experience that’s perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a snack. It’s the kind of loaf that fills your kitchen with that warm, inviting aroma and keeps everyone coming back for just one more slice.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Streusel Bread Recipe lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients. Each one plays a key role from delivering that perfect tender crumb to adding the right balance of sweet, spice, and texture.

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the bread’s structure and soft texture.
• 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice: A fragrant blend that brings classic autumn warmth and depth of flavor.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the bread rise lightly for a tender crumb.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: Adds extra lift to ensure the bread isn’t dense.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• 1 cup canned pumpkin puree: Moistens the bread while adding vibrant color and that iconic pumpkin taste.
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the bread with a clean, classic sweetness.
• 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed: Adds a richer, caramel note and extra moisture.
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil: Keeps the bread tender and moist.
• 2 large eggs: Bind ingredients and add richness to the batter.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Lifts and rounds out the flavors with a lovely aromatic touch.
• 3/4 cup chocolate chips (semisweet or milk): Melts to pockets of sweet indulgence throughout the bread.
• 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional): Adds a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor.
• Streusel Topping:
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: Forms the base for the crumbly topping.
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens and caramelizes the topping during baking.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and spice to the streusel.
• 3 tablespoons cold butter, cubed: Creates that classic crumbly texture when rubbed into the dry ingredients.

How to Make Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Streusel Bread Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is essential to ensure even baking. Next, grease and flour a 9×5 inch loaf pan so your bread releases easily once baked, giving you clean slices every time.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. This blend is the foundation of your bread’s flavor and texture, so whisking ensures all those spices and leavening agents are evenly distributed.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, blend the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil. This vibrant, smooth mixture creates moisture and sweetness, which are crucial for a tender, flavorful bread.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Whisk the eggs and vanilla extract into your pumpkin mixture until fully combined. These ingredients give richness and help bind everything together while enhancing the overall aroma.

Step 5: Bring Wet and Dry Ingredients Together

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix here, as that can develop gluten and make the bread tough rather than soft and tender.

Step 6: Fold In Chocolate Chips and Nuts

Add chocolate chips and the optional chopped nuts, folding them in gently to ensure they’re evenly scattered. This step is where your bread gains texture and those delightful pockets of chocolate that make every bite special.

Step 7: Pour Batter Into Pan

Transfer your batter to the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly so the bread bakes uniformly. This simple step helps achieve that perfect thickness and rise.

Step 8: Prepare the Streusel Topping

In a small bowl, mix together the streusel ingredients—flour, sugar, and cinnamon. Add the cold cubed butter and use your fingers to rub the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture forms coarse crumbs. This topping adds that irresistible crunchy finish to your bread.

Step 9: Add Streusel Onto Batter

Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the batter. This coating will bake to a golden, crumbly crust that contrasts beautifully with the soft bread beneath.

Step 10: Bake Until Perfect

Pop the loaf pan into your preheated oven and bake for 60 to 70 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, signaling that your bread is moist but fully cooked through.

Step 11: Cool and Enjoy

Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before turning it out onto a wire rack to cool completely. This resting period allows it to set perfectly, making slicing a breeze and preventing it from crumbling.

How to Serve Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Streusel Bread Recipe

Garnishes

For an extra touch of indulgence, try spreading softened butter or cream cheese on each slice. A drizzle of honey or a dusting of cinnamon sugar elevates the flavors beautifully. You can even top with a sprinkle of chopped nuts or chocolate shavings to echo the delicious mix inside.

Side Dishes

This bread pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee, chai tea, or warm spiced cider. For a full breakfast, serve alongside scrambled eggs or a fresh fruit salad to balance out the richness and add fresh brightness to your meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn your Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Streusel Bread Recipe into a festive centerpiece by slicing it into thick pieces and stacking with layers of whipped cream and fresh berries for a quick bread trifle. Or, toast slices lightly and use them as a base for decadent French toast topped with maple syrup and powdered sugar.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your leftover bread fresh by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or storing it in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay moist and flavorful for about 3 to 4 days, perfect for enjoying throughout the week.

Freezing

If you want to save the love for later, slice the cooled bread and wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. Frozen, your Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Streusel Bread Recipe lasts up to 3 months without losing any taste or texture.

Reheating

To enjoy a warm slice, simply thaw frozen bread slices overnight in the fridge or at room temperature, then toast or microwave briefly. This revives the softness and melts the chocolate chips just right, offering a homemade treat anytime you crave it.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?

Yes, but be sure to cook and puree the fresh pumpkin well to remove moisture before baking. Canned pumpkin puree is convenient and has a consistent texture, which is why it’s preferred.

What type of chocolate chips work best for this recipe?

Semisweet chocolate chips provide a perfect balance to the sweetness, but milk chocolate chips can add a creamier, sweeter touch. Dark chocolate chips are also an option if you enjoy a slightly more intense chocolate flavor.

Is it necessary to add nuts to the bread?

No, the nuts are optional and can be omitted if you have allergies or prefer a nut-free version. The bread still tastes fantastic without them but adds a lovely crunch if included.

Can I substitute vegetable oil with another fat?

Absolutely! You can use melted butter or coconut oil for a richer flavor. Just keep in mind substitutions might slightly affect the texture.

How do I prevent the streusel topping from sinking into the bread?

Make sure the batter isn’t too runny, and sprinkle the streusel gently but evenly on top. The cold butter in the topping also helps create that crumbly texture without sinking, especially when baked immediately after assembling.

Final Thoughts

This Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Streusel Bread Recipe is more than just a loaf; it’s a cozy hug in bread form, perfect for sharing, gifting, or savoring any time pumpkin cravings hit. Its combination of soft pumpkin-rich crumb, pockets of melted chocolate, and crumbly cinnamon streusel makes it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a cherished staple in your kitchen too!

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