Pumpkin Bread
Imagine walking into a kitchen that feels like a warm hug on a crisp autumn day. The intoxicating aroma of freshly baked pumpkin bread fills the air, wrapping you in cozy nostalgia. This pumpkin bread recipe is more than just a seasonal delight; it’s a heartfelt experience that brings back memories of Thanksgiving dinners, family gatherings, and chilly September afternoons. With its perfectly spiced flavor, soft texture, and rich, moist consistency, this bread is a must-make for anyone craving something comforting and sweet. Plus, the best part? It’s incredibly easy to whip up, making it an ideal treat for busy mornings or spontaneous baking sessions with the kids.
Are You Ready to Indulge Your Sweet Tooth?
What if I told you that you could enjoy a slice of warm, fragrant pumpkin bread slathered with a dollop of cream cheese or perhaps a scoop of vanilla ice cream? Doesn’t that sound dreamy? Picture yourself cozying up with a slice, feeling the warmth radiate from the bread, every bite melting in your mouth. If you’ve ever felt comfort in food, this was made for you.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
One of the best things about this pumpkin bread recipe is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, this recipe is accessible and stress-free, making it a fantastic choice for bakers of all skill levels. It also offers a nutritious kick with the addition of pumpkin, which is packed with vitamins and antioxidants. Plus, it’s a true crowd-pleaser! Your friends and family will be singing your praises as they savor each delectable slice.
Ingredients
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Flour: 2 cups of all-purpose flour, serving as the hearty base that holds everything together.
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Pumpkin: 1 cup of pure canned pumpkin, offering a rich, velvety texture and deep flavor that defines this bake.
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Spices: Cinnamon and nutmeg to evoke the warm essence of fall with every bite.
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Sugar: 1 cup of granulated sugar to create that perfect touch of sweetness, balancing the pumpkin’s natural flavors.
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Eggs: 2 large eggs, providing moisture and a rich, tender crumb.
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Oil: ½ cup of vegetable oil for that lush, moist texture that keeps you coming back for more.
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Leaveners: 1 tsp baking soda and 1 tsp baking powder to give the bread that irresistible rise.
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Powdered sugar: Just a sprinkle for an optional glaze that makes this bread feel even more special.
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Pepitas: Peeled pumpkin seeds to top off the bread, adding a delightful crunch and touch of elegance.
Timing
What’s better than biting into your warm pumpkin bread within just an hour of baking? This recipe strikes an incredible balance between being both fast and indulgent. While it takes only about 10 minutes to prep and about 50 minutes to bake, the result feels luxurious, almost like you dedicated a full afternoon to creating magic in the kitchen.
Step-by-Step
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Preheat the oven to 350°F: Start by getting that oven nice and toasty, filling your home with lovely warmth right from the get-go.
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Line two loaf pans with parchment paper: This is your canvas. The parchment will ensure that your beautiful loaf releases perfectly.
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Whisk flour, spices, and leaveners together in a bowl: Picture the flour dancing with cinnamon and nutmeg, creating a fragrant blend that whisks you away to cozy autumn evenings.
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In a separate bowl, mix sugar, pumpkin, oil, and eggs: Combine these vibrant ingredients; the bright, earthy orange of the pumpkin contrasts magically with the sugar, creating something visually stunning.
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Pour dry ingredients into wet ingredients; do not overmix: As you combine everything, be gentle—this is where you create that tender crumb we all love.
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Pour batter into prepared loaf pans: Let the batter cascade into the pans, feeling as if you’re pouring in a potion of comfort and nostalgia.
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Rotate pans halfway through baking: This is key to ensuring even cooking, so your bread doesn’t end up lopsided or burnt.
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Let cool completely before glazing: Allow the bread to cool, transitioning from hot out of the oven to a beautifully glazed loaf that is simply begging to be devoured.
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Use powdered sugar to make a glaze: Create a dreamy, silky glaze to drizzle over the top, making it appear like a sweet sunrise.
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Sprinkle with pepitas: Finish it off with crunchy pepitas for that irresistible texture, elevating your pumpkin bread to gourmet status.
Nutritional Information
This pumpkin bread is a delightful indulgence—about 220 calories per slice. While it’s not a health food, it does provide a dose of pumpkin goodness. Don’t forget the joy of occasional indulgence in life; it’s meant to be savored!
Healthier Alternatives
For those looking to cut down on sugar or make this treat dairy-free, consider swapping out the granulated sugar with a stevia blend or monk fruit sweetener. You can also use coconut oil instead of vegetable oil for a healthier fat alternative. Want a dairy-free twist? Substitute eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg) for a vegan option, keeping the essence intact!
Serving Suggestions
This pumpkin bread is not just perfect with coffee; it can be enjoyed in so many ways. A thin slice pairs beautifully with creamy vanilla ice cream or even a dollop of whipped cream for dessert. Serve it at your Thanksgiving table or enjoy it as a sweet breakfast treat during the fall season—either way, it’s a hit!
Common Mistakes
Avoid the trap of overbaking, which can dry out your bread and make it crumbly. Check for doneness a few minutes before the baking time is up by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs, you’re golden! Ensure your bread is cool before glazing, or you might end up with a melty mess.
Storing Tips
After you’ve enjoyed your pumpkin bread, store any leftovers in an airtight container. It stays fresh for up to three days at room temperature or can be refrigerated for up to a week. If you want to enjoy it later, slice your pumpkin bread and freeze it in portions. When you’re ready, simply thaw and reheat in the toaster or microwave for a few seconds to reclaim that cozy bakery feel.
Tempting You to Bake ASAP
The scent of baking pumpkin bread has a way of drawing loved ones together, creating moments of joy and connection around your kitchen counter. Don’t let the season slip by without trying this recipe! It’s more than just food; it’s a heartwarming experience waiting to unfold in your kitchen. Get those ingredients ready, and let’s make magic happen.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Absolutely! Just make sure to cook and puree the pumpkin until it’s smooth.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes! You can bake this pumpkin bread a day ahead and store it wrapped tightly at room temperature.
Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?
Definitely! Walnuts or chocolate chips will add an extra layer of flavor that complements the pumpkin beautifully.
How long does this pumpkin bread last?
When stored properly, it can last up to a week in the fridge, and you can freeze it for several months.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes! Just ensure you have enough loaf pans and adjust the baking time as necessary. Enjoy baking this delightful treat!
Print
Pumpkin Bread
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A comforting and easy-to-make pumpkin bread that fills your home with the warm scent of autumn. Perfect for breakfasts or as a sweet treat with coffee.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup pure canned pumpkin
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp baking powder
- Cinnamon and nutmeg to taste
- Powdered sugar for glaze (optional)
- Peeled pumpkin seeds (pepitas) for topping
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Line two loaf pans with parchment paper.
- Whisk flour, spices, and leaveners together in a bowl.
- In a separate bowl, mix sugar, pumpkin, oil, and eggs.
- Pour dry ingredients into wet ingredients; do not overmix.
- Pour batter into prepared loaf pans.
- Rotate pans halfway through baking.
- Let cool completely before glazing.
- Use powdered sugar to make a glaze.
- Sprinkle with pepitas before serving.
Notes
For a healthier alternative, consider using stevia or monk fruit instead of sugar, and coconut oil instead of vegetable oil. This bread can also be made vegan by using flax eggs.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
