Pumpkin Bread Recipe

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If there’s one cozy, soul-warming treat that captures the essence of autumn in every bite, it’s this Pumpkin Bread Recipe. Richly spiced, perfectly moist, and bursting with the natural sweetness and vibrant color of pure pumpkin, this bread feels like a hug wrapped in a loaf. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or just craving a comforting snack, this recipe delivers a golden, tender crumb that’s absolutely irresistible. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll want to keep close all season long, turning simple ingredients into a masterpiece of flavor and aroma.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Although this Pumpkin Bread Recipe uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients, each one plays a crucial role in creating that classic warm flavor and tender texture we all love. From aromatic spices to creamy butter, these essentials come together to craft a bread that’s both wholesome and decadent.

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the structure and base for the bread’s tender crumb.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda: Gives the bread its rise and lightness.
• ½ teaspoon baking powder: Works alongside baking soda for perfect lift.
• 1 teaspoon ground cloves: Adds a deep, warm spice note that’s quintessentially autumnal.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Brings classic sweetness and fragrant warmth.
• 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Introduces a subtle, nutty spice that complements pumpkin beautifully.
• 1½ sticks (¾ cup) unsalted butter, softened: Ensures richness and moistness in every slice.
• 2 cups sugar: Sweetens while supporting the bread’s tender texture.
• 2 large eggs: Bind everything together and add richness.
• 1 (15-oz) can 100% pure pumpkin: The star ingredient, delivering moistness, color, and that unmistakable pumpkin flavor.

How to Make Pumpkin Bread Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pans

Start out by preheating your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit (163 degrees Celsius) and positioning the rack in the middle for even baking. Next, make sure your loaf pans are greased thoroughly with butter and dusted with flour to prevent sticking—this little trick guarantees your loaves will come out clean and picture perfect. If you prefer, a baking spray with flour works just as well and saves a bit of fuss.

Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients

Mixing your flour, salt, baking soda, baking powder, and aromatic spices together ensures that every bite carries a balanced blend of warmth and flavor. Whisking these ingredients in a medium bowl until fully combined makes for smooth incorporation later, giving your pumpkin bread an even, delightful flavor throughout.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

Using an electric mixer, beat the softened butter and sugar on medium speed just until blended. This step sets the stage for a tender crumb by evenly distributing the fat and sugar—think of it as building a fluffy foundation for your batter.

Step 4: Beat in the Eggs

Add the eggs one at a time to your butter-sugar mix, beating thoroughly after each addition. This process not only enriches the batter but also helps incorporate air, making the bread wonderfully light and fluffy.

Step 5: Add the Pumpkin

Now for the pumpkin! Beat in the canned pure pumpkin. Don’t worry if the mixture looks a bit grainy or curdled here—that’s completely normal and won’t affect your bread’s final texture or taste.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour in your flour and spice mixture and stir on low speed just until everything is evenly mixed. Be careful not to overmix; gentle folding here keeps your bread tender and soft, allowing those spices and pumpkin to shine.

Step 7: Divide and Bake

Evenly divide your batter between the two prepared loaf pans. Pop them in your oven and bake for 65 to 75 minutes, or until a cake tester inserted in the center comes out clean. Patience pays off here—the slow baking ensures a moist loaf that’s cooked perfectly through.

Step 8: Cool and Enjoy

Once baked, let your loaves cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before turning them out onto wire racks to cool completely. This cooling time helps the bread set, making slicing easier and keeping every piece intact and beautiful.

How to Serve Pumpkin Bread Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of powdered sugar, a pat of softened butter, or a drizzle of honey can elevate your pumpkin bread into a special treat. For extra flair, try a light cream cheese frosting or a dusting of cinnamon sugar. These toppings add just the right touch of sweetness, balancing the spices beautifully.

Side Dishes

This bread is lovely on its own, but pairing it with a warm cup of chai tea, coffee, or hot apple cider turns snack time into a cozy experience. For brunch, serve alongside fresh fruit or a creamy yogurt parfait to create a well-rounded, seasonal spread.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice your pumpkin bread thickly and toast it lightly for a delightful crunch and warmth. You can also cut it into cubes for a spiced bread pudding or use it as the base in a layered trifle with whipped cream and cinnamon-spiced fruit. These fun presentations make the Pumpkin Bread Recipe even more versatile and exciting.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your pumpkin bread wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil at room temperature for up to three days to maintain its moisture and softness. For longer storage, place it in an airtight container to keep it fresh without drying out.

Freezing

This Pumpkin Bread Recipe freezes wonderfully. Wrap individual slices or whole loaves tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to three months to enjoy that delicious autumn taste any time you want.

Reheating

To bring your pumpkin bread back to life, warm slices in a toaster oven or microwave for 20-30 seconds until just heated through. The gentle warmth revives the bread’s moist texture and amplifies its comforting aromas.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes! You can substitute pureed fresh pumpkin by roasting and mashing it, making sure it’s drained well to avoid excess moisture. The flavor will be just as delicious, though canned pumpkin offers consistency and convenience.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

This traditional Pumpkin Bread Recipe uses all-purpose flour, which contains gluten. For a gluten-free version, you can try substituting a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, but results may vary slightly in texture.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Adding chopped walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips can introduce delightful texture and bursts of flavor. Fold them in at the same time you add the flour mixture, being careful not to overmix.

How long does the bread stay moist?

Stored properly at room temperature or refrigerated, this bread stays nicely moist for up to a week. Make sure to keep it wrapped tightly to preserve freshness, and avoid drying out.

What is the key to moist pumpkin bread?

The key is a combination of the pure pumpkin’s natural moisture, the softened butter, and not overmixing the batter. Also, baking at a moderate temperature for the right amount of time helps the bread stay tender and perfectly cooked inside.

Final Thoughts

There’s truly nothing like the comforting scent of pumpkin and spices filling your kitchen, and this Pumpkin Bread Recipe does exactly that while gifting you with loaves that are irresistibly soft and flavorful. Whether you’re baking for yourself, family, or friends, this bread promises smiles and second helpings. Give it a try—you’ll find it quickly becomes a beloved staple for every cozy occasion.

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