Delicious Homemade Pumpkin Spice Bread Recipe
There’s something undeniably comforting about the warm and cozy flavors of pumpkin spice, especially when they’re baked into a loaf of delicious homemade pumpkin spice bread. This recipe has been a cherished family favorite for years, and it’s sure to become a staple in your home too. With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this aromatic and moist treat that’s perfect for any season, but especially adored in the fall.
There is something so cozy and comforting about having a slice of homemade pumpkin bread with a cup of coffee or tea, especially when the temperatures drop or it’s rainy outside.
If you’re craving this delightful fall treat but don’t want to leave your home, this easy pumpkin bread recipe will more than satisfy you. It will also fill your home with the scent of fresh bread! That’s why my family loves it when I bake this moist pumpkin bread.
How to make your own Pumpkin Spice
If you don’t have pumpkin pie spice on hand, you can easily make your own by combining 1 teaspoon of nutmeg, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and 1 teaspoon of cloves. Adjust the quantities to your taste if desired.
Best Pumpkin Bread Recipe
Preparation Time: 8-10 minutes
Baking Time: 70 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 1.5 hours
Yield: 6-8 servings
Equipment:
- 8.5*4.5-inch loaf pan
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 4 eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup light brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup canned pumpkin
- 3/4 cup vegetable oil (I recommend using avocado or canola oil)
Instructions:
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease the loaf pan to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together and set the mixture aside.
- Prepare Wet Ingredients: In a separate mixing bowl, beat together the eggs, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until they are well combined.
- Add Pumpkin and Oil: Incorporate the canned pumpkin and vegetable oil into the wet ingredients. Continue to beat until everything is well combined.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients mixture into the wet ingredients. Mix until the batter is smooth. Be careful not to overmix; just ensure that all the flour is fully incorporated. If there are any lumps, gently fold them in with a rubber spatula.
- Pour and Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Smooth the top to ensure even baking.
- Bake to Perfection: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 60-70 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean. The delicious aroma will fill your kitchen as it bakes!
- Cooling: Remove the pumpkin spice bread from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for at least 30 minutes. Afterward, transfer it to a wire rack to continue cooling.
Notes:
- Freezing: If you want to enjoy this delightful bread later, simply slice it and place the slices in resealable plastic bags or wrap them in plastic wrap. Freeze them for future indulgence. To enjoy, warm a slice in the microwave on high for about 45 seconds.
Enjoy your homemade pumpkin spice bread as a delightful snack, a sweet breakfast treat, or a comforting dessert. Its rich flavors and moist texture are sure to make it a beloved addition to your family’s recipe collection.
Best Pumpkin Spice Bread
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with our family's favorite Pumpkin Spice Bread recipe. This easy-to-follow guide offers delicious variations and a simple cream cheese frosting. Perfect for fall or anytime you crave a cozy treat.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 4 eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup light brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup canned pumpkin
- 3/4 cup vegetable oil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350 F or 177 C
- Grease loaf pan
- In a large bowl combine flour, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder and salt. Whisk together and set aside.
- In a mixing bowl beat together eggs, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla until combined.
- Add in pumpkin and oil and beat until combined.
- Lastly add in dry ingredients and mix until batter is smooth.
- Pour into prepared loaf pan.
- Bake for 60-70 min until skewer inserted in the middle comes out clean.
- Remove from oven and let cool in pan for a minimum of 30 min.
Best Ways To Store Leftover Pumpkin Bread
Storing leftover pumpkin bread properly is essential to maintain its freshness and prevent it from becoming dry or stale. Here are the best ways to store your pumpkin bread leftovers:
- Cool Completely: Before storing your pumpkin bread, make sure it has cooled completely at room temperature. If you seal it in an airtight container while it’s still warm, it can create condensation, making the bread soggy.
- Airtight Container: The most effective way to store pumpkin bread is in an airtight container. You can use a plastic container with a tightly sealing lid, a resealable plastic bag, or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Ensure that there is minimal air inside the container or bag to prevent moisture loss.
- Slice Before Storing: If your pumpkin bread is in a whole loaf, it’s a good idea to slice it before storing. This makes it easier to take out individual servings without exposing the entire loaf to air and moisture.
- Layering: If you need to stack slices of pumpkin bread in a container or bag, place a sheet of parchment paper or wax paper between each slice. This prevents them from sticking together.
- Refrigeration (Optional): Pumpkin bread can be stored at room temperature for a couple of days, but if you plan to keep it for an extended period (more than a few days), it’s best to refrigerate it. Refrigeration will help prolong its freshness. Place the airtight container or freezer bag in the refrigerator.
- Freezing (Long-Term Storage): For long-term storage, pumpkin bread can be frozen. Wrap individual slices or the whole loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Alternatively, you can use freezer-safe resealable bags. Frozen pumpkin bread can be stored for up to 2-3 months.
- Thawing: When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen pumpkin bread, remove the desired portion from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature. You can also use a microwave to gently thaw and warm individual slices.
- Avoid Moisture: To prevent moisture buildup, avoid placing the airtight container in a warm or humid environment, as this can lead to mold growth. Keep it in a cool, dry place.
Remember that pumpkin bread is at its best when consumed within a few days of baking. Proper storage methods can help maintain its quality and flavor for a longer period. Enjoy your pumpkin bread as a tasty treat, whether it’s fresh out of the oven or from your well-preserved leftovers.
Easy Pumpkin Bread Variations
Pumpkin spice bread is a versatile treat, and there are several easy variations you can try to add a unique twist to the classic recipe. Here are some delicious ideas:
- Nutty Delight: Add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor by folding in 1/2 to 1 cup of chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, into the batter before baking.
- Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread: For a sweeter touch, mix in 1/2 to 1 cup of chocolate chips or chocolate chunks to the batter. The combination of chocolate and pumpkin is heavenly.
- Cream Cheese Swirl: Create a marbled effect by layering cream cheese mixture between the pumpkin bread batter. Mix together 4 ounces of softened cream cheese, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and 1 egg. Dollop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture onto the batter in the pan, then swirl it with a knife before baking.
- Maple Glaze: After the pumpkin bread has cooled, drizzle it with a simple maple glaze. Mix 1 cup of powdered sugar with 2-3 tablespoons of maple syrup until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more sugar or syrup as needed.
- Streusel Topping: Add a delightful crumbly topping to your pumpkin bread by mixing 1/2 cup of brown sugar, 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup of cold butter, and a pinch of cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the batter before baking for a sweet and crispy topping.
- Orange Zest: Enhance the citrus notes by adding the zest of one orange to the batter. The orange zest complements the pumpkin spice flavors beautifully.
- Raisin or Cranberry Twist: For a fruity touch, mix in 1/2 to 1 cup of raisins or dried cranberries. These add a burst of sweetness and chewiness to the bread.
- Swap Flour: Experiment with different flours, such as whole wheat flour or almond flour, to create a healthier version of the bread.
- Pumpkin Seeds: Top your pumpkin bread with a sprinkle of pumpkin seeds before baking for a crunchy and visually appealing garnish.
- Spiced Glaze: Combine 1/2 cup of powdered sugar with a pinch of pumpkin pie spice and enough milk or cream to reach your desired consistency. Drizzle this spiced glaze over the cooled pumpkin bread for added flavor.
- Savory Variation: If you prefer a savory twist, reduce the sugar and pumpkin spice in the recipe, and add herbs like sage and thyme for a pumpkin herb bread that pairs well with soups and stews.
Feel free to mix and match these variations to suit your taste and creativity. Pumpkin spice bread is a canvas for delicious additions, so have fun experimenting with flavors and textures to create your own unique version of this beloved treat.
Elevate Your Pumpkin Bread With Cream Cheese Frosting
Making a simple cream cheese frosting for your pumpkin bread is easy and adds a delightful touch of creaminess and sweetness to the already delicious treat. Here’s a quick and easy recipe for cream cheese frosting:
Ingredients:
- 4 ounces (1/2 cup) cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup (4 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar (confectioners’ sugar)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Soften the Cream Cheese and Butter: Make sure both the cream cheese and butter are softened to room temperature. This step is crucial to achieving a smooth and lump-free frosting.
- Cream Cheese and Butter Mixing: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and butter. Use an electric mixer or a hand whisk to beat them together until they are well combined and creamy. This should take about 1-2 minutes.
- Add Vanilla Extract: Add the vanilla extract to the cream cheese and butter mixture. Continue to mix until it’s fully incorporated.
- Gradually Add Powdered Sugar: Begin adding the powdered sugar gradually, about 1/4 cup at a time, while continuing to beat the mixture. This gradual addition helps prevent lumps and ensures a smooth frosting.
- Mix Until Smooth: Keep beating the frosting until it becomes smooth and creamy. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure everything is well combined.
- Taste and Adjust: Taste the frosting to check if it’s at your desired level of sweetness and flavor. You can adjust by adding more powdered sugar if you want it sweeter or more vanilla extract if you desire a stronger vanilla flavor.
- Frost Your Pumpkin Bread: Once your pumpkin bread has cooled completely, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. You can use a spatula or a knife to achieve a smooth finish. Serve your pumpkin bread immediately, or if you’re not serving it right away, store it in the refrigerator to keep the frosting firm.
Cream cheese frosting adds a delightful contrast to the spiced flavors of pumpkin bread, making it a perfect pairing. Enjoy your deliciously frosted pumpkin bread!