Pumpkin Bread Recipe

Make Fluffy Fall Magic: The Best Pumpkin Bread Recipe

Autumn’s crisp winds whisper secrets of homemade pumpkin bread that dance between comfort and nostalgia.

Warm spices beckon memories of cozy kitchens and grandmother’s loving touch.

Seasonal ingredients blend seamlessly into a moist, fragrant loaf that speaks directly to your soul.

Cinnamon and nutmeg weave magic through every crumbly bite, creating an experience beyond simple baking.

Sweet aromas will fill your home with warmth and promise.

Soft, tender slices promise pure delight waiting to be savored.

You won’t want to miss creating this irresistible autumn treasure that connects generations through one delectable recipe.

Serving Ideas for Pumpkin Bread

  • Cozy Breakfast Companion: Slice the warm pumpkin bread and pair it with a steaming cup of coffee or chai tea for a comforting morning treat.
  • Holiday Gift Idea: Wrap individual slices in parchment paper and tie with a festive ribbon for a homemade holiday present that spreads seasonal cheer.
  • Dessert Transformation: Toast a slice and top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent after-dinner dessert that elevates the humble bread.
  • Brunch Centerpiece: Arrange slices on a wooden board with cream cheese spread, honey, and some fresh berries for an inviting brunch display that impresses guests.

Storing Pumpkin Bread for Freshness

  • Wrap the pumpkin bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days to maintain freshness and prevent drying out.
  • Slice the bread, wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months, ensuring no moisture enters the packaging to prevent freezer burn.
  • Keep the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. Cover with a clean kitchen towel to prevent excess moisture and maintain its soft texture.

FAQs

  • Is pumpkin bread healthy?

While delicious, pumpkin bread is a treat with moderate nutritional value. Pumpkin provides vitamins and fiber, but the sugar and oil content make it more of a dessert than a health food.

  • Can I make this bread gluten-free?

Yes, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to use a 1:1 replacement ratio to maintain the bread’s texture.

  • Why did my pumpkin bread turn out dense?

Overmixing the batter can develop gluten and create a dense texture. Stir the ingredients just until combined to keep the bread light and fluffy.

Classic Pumpkin Bread with a Moist Texture

  • Savor Seasonal Comfort: Capture the warmth of autumn with this rich, spice-packed pumpkin bread that brings cozy kitchen vibes to your home.
  • Customize with Creativity: Easily personalize the recipe by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit to match your mood and taste preferences.
  • Master Baking Simplicity: Enjoy a foolproof recipe that requires basic mixing techniques, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels – from beginners to seasoned pros.
  • Quick Crowd-Pleaser: Whip up a delicious treat that works wonderfully for breakfast, snacking, or as a delightful dessert that everyone will love and appreciate.

Ingredients for Pumpkin Bread

Main Ingredients:
  • Pumpkin Puree: A smooth, rich base that provides the signature autumn flavor and moist texture to the bread.
  • Flour: The primary structural component that gives the bread its classic shape and tender crumb.
  • Eggs: They help bind the ingredients together and contribute to the bread's rich, soft consistency.
Sweeteners:
  • Granulated Sugar, Brown Sugar: These sweeteners add depth of flavor and help create a golden, caramelized exterior.
Spices and Seasonings:
  • Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Cloves, Ginger: These warm spices create the quintessential pumpkin bread flavor profile with their aromatic and comforting notes.
Liquid and Fat Components:
  • Vegetable Oil, Milk: They ensure the bread remains incredibly moist and tender throughout.
Leavening Agents:
  • Baking Soda, Baking Powder: These ingredients help the bread rise and create a light, airy texture.
Additional Flavor Enhancers:
  • Vanilla Extract: It adds a subtle, sweet depth to the overall flavor of the bread.
  • Salt: It balances and enhances the other flavors in the recipe.
Optional Add-Ins:
  • Nuts, Chocolate Chips, Dried Fruit: These ingredients can provide extra texture and personalized flavor to the pumpkin bread.

How to Bake Moist Pumpkin Bread

Step 1: Prep the Baking Station

Warm up your oven to 350F (175C).

Grab a 9×5-inch loaf pan and give it a quick spray or butter coating to prevent sticking.

Set this aside while you get the magic started.

Step 2: Create Dry Ingredient Magic

Grab a large mixing bowl and toss in:
  • All-purpose flour
  • Baking soda
  • Baking powder
  • Salt
  • Ground cinnamon
  • Ground nutmeg
  • Ground cloves
  • Ground ginger

Whisk these dry ingredients together until they’re perfectly blended and no lumps remain.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredient Wonderland

In a separate bowl, combine:
  • Pumpkin puree
  • Vegetable oil
  • Milk
  • Eggs
  • Granulated sugar
  • Brown sugar
  • Vanilla extract

Blend everything until the mixture looks smooth and silky.

Step 4: Marry the Mixtures

Slowly pour the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients.

Stir gently until just combined.

Don’t overmix – you want a tender bread, not a tough one!

Step 5: Jazz It Up

Want to make your bread extra special?

Fold in some:
  • Chopped nuts
  • Chocolate chips
  • Dried cranberries
  • Raisins

Step 6: Pan and Prepare

Transfer the batter into your prepared loaf pan.

Use a spatula to smooth the top, creating an even surface.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Slide the pan into the preheated oven.

Bake for 55-65 minutes.

Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center – it should come out clean.

Step 8: Cool and Enjoy

Let the bread rest in the pan for 10 minutes.

Then carefully transfer to a wire rack.

Allow it to cool completely before slicing into this heavenly treat.

Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Bread Every Time

  • Use freshly ground spices for a more intense, vibrant flavor that elevates the entire pumpkin bread.
  • Drain excess liquid from pumpkin puree using a cheesecloth to prevent a soggy, dense bread texture.
  • Toss nuts or chocolate chips in a light coating of flour before adding to prevent them from sinking to the bottom during baking.
  • Insert a toothpick at multiple points in the bread to ensure even baking and prevent underdone centers.
  • Wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container to maintain moisture for up to 5 days at room temperature.

Variations for Pumpkin Bread Recipes

  • Gluten-Free Pumpkin Bread: Replace wheat flour with almond flour or gluten-free blend for a celiac-friendly version.
  • Vegan Pumpkin Bread: Swap eggs with flax eggs, use plant-based milk, and replace vegetable oil with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
  • Low-Sugar Pumpkin Bread: Reduce sugar content by using stevia or monk fruit sweetener, and add extra spices to enhance natural sweetness.
  • Protein-Packed Pumpkin Bread: Incorporate protein powder and chopped nuts to boost nutritional value and create a more filling breakfast or snack.
Print
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Pumpkin Bread Recipe

Pumpkin Bread Recipe


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4.9 from 36 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Classic pumpkin bread blends autumnal spices with moist, rich texture. Comforting slices promise warmth and nostalgia you’ll savor with each delightful bite.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 3/4 cups (220 grams) all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup (240 grams) pumpkin puree
  • 1 cup (200 grams) granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup (100 grams) brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) vegetable oil

Spices and Seasonings:

  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger

Liquid and Binding Ingredients:

  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup (60 milliliters) milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Prepare the oven by heating to 350°F (175°C) and coating a 9×5-inch loaf pan with grease to prevent sticking.
  2. Create a dry mixture by thoroughly whisking together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and warm spices including cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger in a spacious mixing bowl.
  3. In a separate vessel, blend pumpkin puree with vegetable oil, milk, eggs, both white and brown sugars, and vanilla extract until achieving a uniform, silky consistency.
  4. Carefully incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, using gentle folding motions to prevent overmixing and maintain a tender texture.
  5. Enhance the batter by gently stirring in optional mix-ins such as chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit for additional flavor and texture.
  6. Transfer the prepared batter into the greased loaf pan, using a spatula to distribute evenly and create a smooth surface.
  7. Slide the pan into the preheated oven and bake for 55-65 minutes, monitoring until a toothpick inserted into the center emerges completely clean.
  8. Allow the bread to rest inside the pan for 10 minutes, which helps it settle and prevents crumbling.
  9. Carefully remove the bread from the pan and place on a wire cooling rack, letting it reach room temperature before slicing to ensure perfect texture.

Notes

  • Ensure your pumpkin puree is well-drained to prevent a soggy bread texture.
  • Use room temperature eggs and milk for better ingredient incorporation and smoother batter.
  • Avoid overmixing the batter to keep the bread tender and prevent a tough, dense result.
  • For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend and add xanthan gum for better structure.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 65 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast, Snacks, Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 245 kcal
  • Sugar: 18 g
  • Sodium: 180 mg
  • Fat: 10 g
  • Saturated Fat: 2 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 36 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Cholesterol: 37 mg
Mia Thompson

Mia Thompson

Pastry Chef & Content Creator

Expertise

  • Creating wholesome, seasonal desserts with a focus on nutrition.
  • Developing recipes on healthy baking alternatives.
  • Experimenting with plant-based and gluten-free recipes.​

Education

Portland Community College – Baking and Pastry Arts Program
Specialized in artisanal bread, seasonal desserts, and sustainable baking methods.

National University of Natural Medicine – Bachelor of Science in Nutrition (BScN)
Focused on “Food as Medicine” philosophy, with core threads in nutrition.


Mia’s love affair with baking began in her grandmother’s kitchen, where sneaking spoonfuls of batter first sparked her curiosity. She refined her skills through Portland Community College’s Baking and Pastry Arts Program and her expertise at the National University of Natural Medicine, earning a B.Sc. in Nutrition.
At The Scrumptious Pumpkin, Mia reimagines classics with effortless seasonal treats, healthier twists on old favorites, and playful confections that feel like pure joy. Beyond the oven, she nurtures her urban garden, forages local ingredients around Portland, and leads hands‑on nutrition workshops for her community.

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