Freshly baked pumpkin bread loaf with spices and pumpkin seeds

Pumpkin Bread

ByCasey Monroe

Why Make This Recipe

Pumpkin bread is a delightful treat that captures the essence of autumn. Its moist texture and warm spices make it a perfect snack or breakfast option. Whether you enjoy it plain, with butter, or as a base for your favorite spread, this recipe is simple and delicious. Making pumpkin bread at home fills your kitchen with an inviting aroma and guarantees a fresh loaf that you can enjoy any time you want.

How to Make Pumpkin Bread

Ingredients

  • 1¼ cup pumpkin puree
  • ¾ cup sugar
  • ½ cup oil
  • 2 eggs
  • 3 Tablespoon milk
  • 2 cups flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon baking powder
  • 1½ teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
  • ¼ teaspoon salt

Directions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and grease a 9 x 5 inch loaf pan.
  2. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, sugar, oil, eggs, and milk.
  3. Gradually add in the flour, baking soda, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. Stir until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix!
  4. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and place it in the oven.
  5. Bake for 55 to 60 minutes.
  6. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, your bread is ready!
  7. Allow the bread to cool for 15 minutes in the pan before turning it out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

How to Serve Pumpkin Bread

Pumpkin bread is incredibly versatile. You can serve it warm with a pat of butter, or enjoy it cool on its own. For added richness, spread some cream cheese or peanut butter on a slice. It’s also great with a cup of tea or coffee, making it a wonderful afternoon snack or breakfast option.

How to Store Pumpkin Bread

To keep your pumpkin bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, slice the bread and wrap it in plastic wrap or foil, then place it in a freezer bag. You can freeze it for up to 2 months. Thaw it at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy it again.

Tips to Make Pumpkin Bread

  • Make sure to use fresh pumpkin puree for the best flavor, though canned puree works well too.
  • Avoid overmixing the batter to ensure a light and fluffy texture.
  • Feel free to add nuts or chocolate chips to the batter for extra flavor and texture.

Variation

You can spice things up by adding chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, or chocolate chips. For a healthier option, substitute half of the flour with whole wheat flour.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin puree! Just cook and blend the pumpkin until smooth.

Can I make this bread gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

How do I know when my pumpkin bread is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the bread. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, your bread is done baking.