Pumpkin bread is a classic fall treat that’s hard to resist. With its warm spices, moist texture, and comforting flavor, it’s the perfect thing to bake on a crisp autumn day. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this easy pumpkin bread recipe will have you enjoying a delicious homemade loaf in no time. Grab your favorite fall sweater, a cup of coffee, and let’s get baking!
Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Bread Recipe
There’s something undeniably cozy about pumpkin bread, but here are a few reasons this recipe stands out:
- Super simple: No fancy ingredients or special tools needed.
- Perfectly spiced: A blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves brings out all the best fall flavors.
- Moist and tender: Thanks to the pumpkin puree, this bread stays soft for days.
- Customizable: Add-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or dried cranberries make it your own.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Before you get started, gather these simple ingredients:
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 cup pumpkin puree (canned or homemade)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar (packed)
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup vegetable oil (or melted butter)
- ¼ cup milk (or almond milk)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Add-ins:
½ cup chocolate chips
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- ¼ cup dried cranberries
Step-by-Step Directions:
Let’s dive into how to make this easy and delicious pumpkin bread!
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Set aside.
3. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
In another bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, oil, milk, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth and well combined.
4. Combine Wet and Dry:
Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—this keeps the bread light and fluffy!
5. Add Your Extras:
If you’re feeling adventurous, now’s the time to stir in any extras like chocolate chips, nuts, or cranberries.
6. Bake:
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Cool and Enjoy:
Let the pumpkin bread cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cool, slice it up and enjoy with a warm beverage!
Tips for the Perfect Pumpkin Bread:
- Don’t overmix: Stir just until the ingredients are combined to avoid a dense loaf.
- Check your pumpkin: Be sure to use pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, which has added spices and sugar.
- Storage tips: Store leftover pumpkin bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months!
Customizing Your Pumpkin Bread:
One of the best parts of this pumpkin bread recipe is how versatile it is. Here are some fun ideas to make it your own:
- Chocolate Lovers: Add in ½ cup of chocolate chips or swirl melted chocolate on top before baking.
- Nutty Delight: Mix in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
- Cranberry Twist: Fold in dried cranberries for a tangy contrast to the sweetness of the bread.
- Spice It Up: Want even more warmth? Sprinkle in a bit of ground ginger or cardamom for an extra kick.
FAQ:
1. Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Absolutely! Just make sure to roast, puree, and drain the pumpkin well to avoid adding too much moisture to the batter.
2. Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1-to-1 baking flour. The texture might be slightly different, but it should still taste great.
3. How can I tell when the bread is done baking?
Insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, it’s ready!
4. Can I make muffins instead of a loaf?
Definitely! Simply divide the batter into a muffin tin and bake for 18-22 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
This easy pumpkin bread recipe is a must-bake for fall, filling your kitchen with the comforting smells of cinnamon, nutmeg, and pumpkin. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, a mid-day snack, or even dessert, it’s sure to be a hit with everyone. Plus, with so many ways to customize it, you can keep it fresh and exciting each time you bake it.
So, go ahead, grab that can of pumpkin, and let your oven do the work. Trust me—once you’ve made this delicious loaf, it’ll become a fall favorite for years to come!
