If you’re craving something cozy and comforting with the perfect hint of spice, this Easy Pumpkin Bread Recipe is exactly what you need. Packed with moist pumpkin puree and warm autumn spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, this pumpkin bread is as inviting as a crisp fall afternoon. Whether you’re a pumpkin lover or just looking for a simple, delicious loaf to bake, this recipe will quickly become your go-to treat to brighten up breakfast, snack time, or even dessert.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is the secret to nailing this Easy Pumpkin Bread Recipe. Each element plays a crucial role—from the pumpkin puree that keeps it moist and tender, to the aromatic spices that give it that signature fall flavor. Here’s what you’ll need to bring this bread to life:
- 1 cup pumpkin puree: The star of the show, lending moisture and that lovely pumpkin taste.
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure for a soft but sturdy bread.
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness without weighing down the bread.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar: Brings a subtle caramel note and extra softness.
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil: Keeps the bread tender and moist without overpowering flavors.
- 2 large eggs: Help bind everything together and add richness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances all the pumpkin-y goodness with a sweet scent.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Ensures the bread rises beautifully and stays light.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and highlights the spices.
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: Provides that warm, familiar pumpkin spice aroma.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds a subtle nutty warmth.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves: A touch of bold spice that deepens the flavor profile.
- 1/4 cup milk: Adds moisture for softness without heaviness.
How to Make Easy Pumpkin Bread Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats, take a 9×5-inch loaf pan and either grease it well or line it with parchment paper. This little prep step ensures your pumpkin bread will slide out of the pan perfectly when it’s done baking.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together your pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and milk. Whisking them until smooth creates a lovely base full of moisture and flavor that your bread will rely on for its signature softness.
Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients
Next, sift in the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. This step is crucial to evenly distribute the spices and leavening agents throughout the batter. Gently stir the mixture just until you no longer see any dry streaks—overmixing can make the bread tough, so a light hand is key here.
Step 4: Pour and Smooth the Batter
Pour your perfectly spiced pumpkin batter into the prepared loaf pan. Use a spatula to smooth the top for even baking and a beautiful presentation. Getting an even surface helps the bread bake uniformly and looks great when sliced.
Step 5: Bake Until Perfect
Place the pan on the middle rack of your oven and bake for 55 to 60 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. That golden-brown crust is your sign of success—it’s time to take your pumpkin bread out!
Step 6: Cool and Slice
Allow the pumpkin bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This step helps the bread set so when you slice it, you’ll get perfect, tender pieces every time.
How to Serve Easy Pumpkin Bread Recipe
Garnishes
While this bread shines on its own, a simple garnish can elevate the experience. Try spreading a little softened butter or cream cheese on warm slices to add creaminess. For a sweet touch, a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of powdered sugar creates an irresistible presentation.
Side Dishes
This pumpkin bread pairs wonderfully with a cup of hot coffee, spiced chai, or even creamy hot chocolate. For a fuller breakfast or snack, serve it alongside fresh fruit like sliced apples or a handful of berries, which add natural sweetness and vibrant color to your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Looking to impress guests? Turn your slices into cute mini sandwiches with a smear of mascarpone or Nutella. Or toast the bread lightly and use it as the base for a festive pumpkin bread French toast. The versatility of this Easy Pumpkin Bread Recipe makes it a fun canvas for your culinary creativity.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap any leftover pumpkin bread tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay fresh and moist for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick snacks or breakfast on-the-go.
Freezing
If you want to keep your pumpkin bread longer, freezing is the way to go. Wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil or a freezer bag. It will keep beautifully for up to 3 months. Just thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Reheating
To bring your slice back to life, warm it in a toaster oven or microwave for about 20 seconds until soft and slightly warm. This little touch can make it taste like it just came out of the oven again.
FAQs
Can I use canned pumpkin for this recipe?
Absolutely! Canned pumpkin puree works perfectly and is actually the standard ingredient in this Easy Pumpkin Bread Recipe. Just make sure to use pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, which has added spices and sugar.
Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?
Yes, feel free to fold in about 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips to the batter before baking. They add extra texture and flavor, making your pumpkin bread even more delicious.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
This recipe as written uses all-purpose flour, so it’s not gluten-free. However, you can substitute a gluten-free flour blend cup-for-cup, just be sure it includes xanthan gum for structure.
How do I know when the bread is done?
The best way to check doneness is by inserting a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs (but no raw batter), your pumpkin bread is perfectly baked.
Can this bread be made in a muffin tin?
Yes! Pour the batter into a greased muffin tin and bake for about 20-25 minutes. Muffins make a fun, portable way to enjoy the flavors of this Easy Pumpkin Bread Recipe.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Pumpkin Bread Recipe is such a comforting and joyful way to bring a little fall magic into your kitchen anytime you want. Its mix of spices and moist texture makes every bite feel like a warm hug. I encourage you to try baking it soon—you’ll be amazed at how simple ingredients come together to make something so irresistibly delicious. Happy baking!
Print
Easy Pumpkin Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (approximately 10 servings)
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This easy pumpkin bread recipe is a moist and flavorful treat perfect for fall or any time you crave a warm, spiced loaf. Combining pumpkin puree with a blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, and sweetened with both granulated and brown sugar, this bread offers a tender crumb and rich aroma. It’s quick to mix and bake, making it an ideal homemade snack or breakfast option.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 cup milk
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy release of the bread.
- Mix wet ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and milk until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Add dry ingredients: Sift together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and ground cloves. Gradually add these dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, stirring gently just until no dry streaks remain to avoid overmixing.
- Prepare the batter for baking: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to smooth the top evenly for uniform baking.
- Bake the bread: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 55 to 60 minutes. The bread is done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean without wet batter.
- Cool and serve: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving. This helps the bread to set and maintains its moist texture.
Notes
- For extra moisture and flavor, you can add 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter before baking.
- If you prefer a dairy-free option, substitute milk with almond or oat milk.
- Ensure not to overmix the batter to keep the bread tender and avoid a dense texture.
- Store leftover pumpkin bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- This pumpkin bread freezes well; wrap tightly and freeze up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
