why make this recipe
Easy Pumpkin Bread is perfect for anyone who loves a warm, homemade treat. It’s simple to make, uses common ingredients, and fills your kitchen with a delightful aroma. Whether you’re enjoying it as a breakfast option or a snack, this bread is moist, flavorful, and sure to please. Plus, it’s a great way to embrace the fall season with the flavors of pumpkin and warm spices.
how to make Easy Pumpkin Bread
Ingredients:
- 1¾ cups (210 g) unbleached all-purpose flour (fluffed, spooned, and leveled)
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- ¼ teaspoon ground allspice
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- ½ cup (120 mL) avocado, vegetable, or other neutral oil
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- ¼ cup (60 mL) freshly squeezed orange juice (*see substitute option in notes)
- 1 cup (240 g) canned pumpkin puree
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) with a rack in the center position. Grease a 9 x 5-inch (23 x 13 cm) loaf pan with baking spray and set it aside.
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, ginger, allspice, and salt. Set aside.
- In a separate large mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar and orange zest. Rub the zest into the sugar with your fingertips until it feels moist and fragrant. Then, add the oil, eggs, vanilla extract, orange juice (or a water substitute), and pumpkin puree. Whisk until smooth.
- Add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients and whisk until the flour is just absorbed. Scrape down the bowl to mix everything evenly. Transfer the batter to the greased loaf pan and smooth the top with an offset spatula.
- Bake for 50 to 65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 5 to 10 minutes before removing it. Set on a rack to cool completely.
- To store, wrap a paper towel around the cooled pumpkin bread. This helps prevent it from becoming sticky. Place it in a large Ziploc bag and store it at room temperature. It will stay moist for 3 to 4 days.
how to serve Easy Pumpkin Bread
Easy Pumpkin Bread is delightful on its own or served with a spread of butter or cream cheese. It makes a lovely breakfast item with a cup of coffee or tea. You can also enjoy it as a cozy afternoon snack.
how to store Easy Pumpkin Bread
To keep your Easy Pumpkin Bread fresh, wrap it in a paper towel and place it inside a Ziploc bag. Store it at room temperature for up to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. You can slice it before freezing for easy-to-thaw pieces.
tips to make Easy Pumpkin Bread
- Make sure to use room temperature eggs for better mixing.
- Don’t overmix the batter; just whisk until combined for a tender bread.
- You can add nuts or chocolate chips for extra flavor and texture.
- If you do not have orange juice, you can substitute it with water or another juice.
variation
You can easily make variations of this pumpkin bread by adding ingredients like walnuts, pecans, or even chocolate chips. For a spicier twist, add more cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg.
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin puree. Just make sure to cook and mash the pumpkin until smooth.
2. How can I tell if the bread is done baking?
The bread is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If it comes out with wet batter, it needs more time to bake.
3. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure it is a one-to-one baking substitute.