The aroma of freshly baked pumpkin bread wafts through the air, inviting you to take a slice of heaven. The golden-brown crust gives way to a soft, moist interior that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day.
Imagine cozying up with a steaming cup of coffee, indulging in the sweet and spicy flavors of pumpkin bread while leaves crunch beneath your feet outside. It’s the perfect treat for any occasion, from lazy Sunday mornings to festive gatherings.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This delightful pumpkin bread is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned pros
- Each bite bursts with warm spices and rich pumpkin flavor that will leave you craving more
- Its golden color and enticing aroma make it visually appealing, a true centerpiece for any table
- Enjoy it plain or customize it with nuts or chocolate chips for added flair
Every time I bake this pumpkin bread, my friends ask for seconds – who can resist such deliciousness?
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Canned Pumpkin: Opt for 100% pure pumpkin puree rather than pie filling for the best texture and flavor.
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All-Purpose Flour: Use unbleached flour for optimal rise and structure in your bread.
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Sugar: A mix of granulated sugar and brown sugar provides depth and moisture to the bread.
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Baking Soda & Baking Powder: These leavening agents are crucial for helping your bread rise perfectly.
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Eggs: Use large eggs at room temperature to ensure better mixing with other ingredients.
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Cinnamon & Nutmeg: Freshly ground spices elevate the flavor profile – trust me, it’s worth it!
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Vegetable Oil: This keeps your bread wonderfully moist without adding any heavy flavors.
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Salt: A pinch enhances all the wonderful flavors without making it salty.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan lightly with cooking spray or butter.
Combine dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until fully combined.
Mix wet ingredients: In another bowl, combine canned pumpkin, sugar, eggs, and vegetable oil. Mix until smooth and creamy; you’ll love how vibrant the color is!
Combine mixtures: Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined; be careful not to overmix or your bread may turn out dense.
Pour into pan: Transfer your batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread evenly. Tap the pan lightly on the counter to release any air bubbles.
Bake: Place your loaf pan in the oven and bake for about 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. The smell will be heavenly!
Cool & serve: Once baked, let your pumpkin bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it onto a wire rack. Slice when cooled slightly – if you can wait that long!
You Must Know
- Pumpkin bread isn’t just a delightful treat; it’s a hug in loaf form
- The warm spices and rich pumpkin aroma make your kitchen smell like autumn
- Plus, it’s super easy to whip together, perfect for impressing guests or enjoying solo with coffee
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve the perfect pumpkin bread, mix dry ingredients first, then blend wet ingredients separately before combining. This ensures even distribution of flavors and avoids clumps, giving you that delightful texture everyone loves.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your pumpkin bread by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit. Swapping out regular flour for whole wheat can also give it a denser texture and added nutrition, making it uniquely yours.
Storing & Reheating
Store your pumpkin bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in aluminum foil and freeze it. To reheat, pop it in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or toast slices lightly.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect pumpkin bread, ensure your eggs are at room temperature; this helps with better mixing
- Avoid overmixing the batter to keep the bread tender
- Lastly, let it cool completely before slicing for cleaner cuts and enhanced flavor
The first time I made pumpkin bread, my friends devoured it in minutes! Their raving compliments made me feel like a baking superstar—who knew that mixing flour and pumpkin could create such joy?
FAQ
Can I use canned pumpkin for my pumpkin bread?
Absolutely! Canned pumpkin is convenient and often more consistent than fresh.
How do I know when my pumpkin bread is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Can I add spices to enhance the flavor of my pumpkin bread?
Definitely! Cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger are fantastic additions for that extra fall vibe.

Pumpkin Bread
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 10 servings 1x
Description
Warm up your fall mornings with this luscious pumpkin bread, bursting with rich pumpkin flavor and aromatic spices. Its golden crust and soft, moist interior make it an irresistible treat for any occasion. Enjoy a slice with coffee or serve it at your next gathering—this easy-to-make recipe is sure to impress!
Ingredients
- 1 cup canned pumpkin (100% pure puree)
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp baking powder
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
- ½ tsp salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- In another bowl, mix pumpkin, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vegetable oil until smooth.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture; stir gently until just combined.
- Pour batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for about 60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (60g)
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg