Pumpkin Spice Bread is a delightful treat that combines the warm flavors of fall with the comforting texture of a moist quick bread. This easy recipe brings together pumpkin puree and a blend of spices to create a loaf that’s perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert. You’ll find it wonderfully fragrant and rich without being overly sweet, making it a versatile option to enjoy any time of day.
Why We Love This Pumpkin Spice Bread
There are many reasons this pumpkin spice bread quickly becomes a favorite. First, it’s incredibly simple to make, with common pantry ingredients and no complicated steps. Second, the moist texture and perfect balance of spices give it a homey, satisfying flavor that feels just right for cooler weather. Plus, it’s an excellent way to use pumpkin puree beyond pies, adding a nutritious touch of vitamin A and fiber to your day. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, this recipe fits seamlessly into your routine and yields consistent, delicious results.
Ingredients for Pumpkin Spice Bread
To create this pumpkin spice bread, you’ll need a handful of basic ingredients that combine to build its rich flavor and tender crumb.
- 1 ½ cups pumpkin puree
- ⅓ cup neutral oil (such as canola, grapeseed, sunflower, or coconut)
- 2 eggs
- ½ cup (105 grams) white sugar
- ¼ cup (50 grams) brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups (210 grams) plain flour
- 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
How to Make Pumpkin Spice Bread Directions
Making this pumpkin spice bread is straightforward and requires just a few simple steps to get it right.
Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F) and prepare a loaf tin by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper. This ensures your bread won’t stick and will come out cleanly once baked.
Next, take a large mixing bowl and add the pumpkin puree, oil, eggs, white sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla extract. Whisk these together until you have a smooth, even mixture with no lumps. This mixture will form the base of your bread and is packed with moisture and flavor.
Once the wet ingredients are well combined, add in the plain flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking soda, and salt. Stir these dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep your bread tender and soft.
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf tin and spread it out evenly. Place the tin in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top turns a golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean without any wet batter.
Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the tin for about 10 minutes. Then carefully turn it out onto a cooling rack to cool completely before slicing.
How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Bread
This bread is delicious warm or at room temperature, making it a versatile treat for any time. For a simple snack, slice it thick and enjoy it plain, letting the spices and pumpkin shine on their own.
If you want to elevate your serving, try spreading a thin layer of butter or cream cheese on each slice. The creamy richness pairs beautifully with the spiced pumpkin flavor. You can also toast slices lightly to add a bit of crunch and warmth, perfect for chilly mornings.
Pumpkin spice bread also works well as part of a breakfast spread alongside fresh fruit, yogurt, or a hot beverage like coffee or tea. It’s balanced sweetness means it doesn’t overpower other flavors, so feel free to get creative with your serving ideas.
Expert Tips: Pumpkin Spice Bread
To get the best results with this recipe, keep these tips in mind. First, use fresh pumpkin puree if possible. Canned pumpkin works fine, but fresh puree adds an extra layer of flavor and moisture.
Second, don’t skip the pumpkin pie spice. If you don’t have a blend ready, mix your own using cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. The spices create the characteristic aroma and taste that make this bread so inviting.
Third, be gentle when mixing in the flour. Overmixing can make the bread dense or tough. Stir just until the dry ingredients disappear into the wet batter.
Finally, check your bread a few minutes before the baking time ends to avoid overbaking. Every oven is different, so it’s important to rely on visual cues like golden color and a clean toothpick test.
How to Store Pumpkin Spice Bread
Proper storage keeps your pumpkin spice bread fresh and moist for days. Once completely cooled, wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container at room temperature.
Stored this way, the bread should stay fresh for up to five days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing. You can freeze the whole loaf or individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer bag. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature or warm slices directly in a toaster or oven.
Avoid refrigerating the bread, as it can dry out quickly and lose its soft texture.
Variation of Pumpkin Spice Bread
While this classic recipe is delicious on its own, you can try several variations to suit your tastes or dietary needs.
Add nuts like walnuts or pecans for crunch and extra flavor. Fold in a handful of chocolate chips for a sweet twist that pairs wonderfully with the spices.
If you want a more wholesome version, substitute half the plain flour with whole wheat flour. You might need to add a tablespoon or two of extra liquid to maintain moisture.
For a dairy-free option, use coconut oil and replace eggs with flaxseed eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg).
You can also experiment with adding dried fruits like raisins or cranberries, which add bursts of sweetness and texture to each bite.
FAQ about Pumpkin Spice Bread
What makes pumpkin spice bread moist?
The pumpkin puree and oil work together to keep this bread tender and moist, preventing it from drying out during baking.
Can I use canned pumpkin for this recipe?
Yes, canned pumpkin puree works perfectly. Just ensure you use pure pumpkin and not pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugars and spices.
How long does pumpkin spice bread last?
Stored properly at room temperature in an airtight container, it stays fresh for up to five days. Freezing extends its shelf life for several months.
Can I make this bread gluten-free?
You can substitute the plain flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Keep in mind that texture may vary slightly, so check the baking time carefully.
Is pumpkin spice bread healthy?
While it contains sugar and oil, the pumpkin adds fiber, vitamins, and moisture, making it a more nutritious choice compared to many other quick breads.
What is pumpkin pie spice?
Pumpkin pie spice is a blend of warming spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves, essential for that classic autumn flavor.
Can I add toppings to pumpkin spice bread?
Yes, feel free to add a simple glaze, chopped nuts, or seeds on top before baking to add texture and flavor.
How do I know when the bread is done baking?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, the bread is ready.
Pumpkin Spice Bread
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups pumpkin puree
- 1/3 cup neutral oil (such as canola, grapeseed, sunflower, or coconut)
- 1/2 cup white sugar (105 grams)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (50 grams)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups plain flour (210 grams)
- 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and prepare a loaf tin by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine pumpkin puree, oil, eggs, white sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
- Add plain flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking soda, and salt to the wet mixture. Stir until just combined; avoid overmixing.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf tin and spread it evenly. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Once baked, let the bread cool in the tin for about 10 minutes, then turn it out onto a cooling rack to cool completely before slicing.
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