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This Pumpkin Bread recipe stands out as a comforting, flavorful treat perfect for any season, especially fall.
Its warm spices—cloves, cinnamon, and nutmeg—infuse every bite with cozy, nostalgic aromas.
While it’s not a low-carb or high-protein option, it offers a moderate amount of protein and fiber thanks to the pumpkin, which also provides a good source of vitamin A and antioxidants.
The recipe balances traditional richness from butter and sugar with the moistness and subtle nutrition boost from pumpkin puree, making it a satisfying choice for breakfast, snack, or dessert.
It’s also incredibly approachable, with simple pantry staples and straightforward steps, making it ideal for everyday baking or meal prep.
Plus, its freezer-friendly nature means you can enjoy freshly toasted slices weeks later, preserving that crispy crust and tender crumb that make pumpkin bread so irresistible.
Must-Have Tools for Perfect Results
Electric Mixer
Essential for creaming butter and sugar to a light, fluffy texture, ensuring your pumpkin bread rises beautifully and has a tender crumb.
Beyond this recipe, it’s a versatile powerhouse for baking and mixing doughs, batters, and more.
8 x 4-Inch Loaf Pans (Set of 2)
These pans provide the perfect shape and even heat distribution for baking pumpkin bread.
Durable, non-stick options make cleanup easy and guarantee consistent results for all your favorite loaf recipes.
Measuring Cups and Spoons
Precise measurement is crucial in baking. Quality measuring tools ensure consistent ingredient ratios for perfect texture and flavor every time, useful for all kitchen tasks.
Wire Cooling Rack
Allows your loaves to cool evenly by letting air circulate, preventing soggy bottoms and maintaining that signature crisp crust.
A kitchen staple for cooling baked goods efficiently.
Pumpkin Bread
Equipment
- 2 Loaf pans (8 x 4 inches)
- Electric mixer (stand or hand)
- Measuring cups and spoons (various sizes)
- Medium mixing bowl
- large mixing bowl
- Wire cooling rack
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour measured by spooning into the cup and leveling off
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¾ cup 1½ sticks unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 15-ounce can pure pumpkin puree (such as Libby’s)
Instructions
- Prepare Your Oven and Pans: Set your oven to 325°F (165°C) and place the oven rack in the center position for even heat circulation. Grease two 8×4-inch loaf pans generously with butter, then dust them lightly with flour to prevent sticking. Alternatively, use a non-stick baking spray that contains flour for quick prep.
- Combine the Dry Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, baking soda, baking powder, and the trio of warm spices: cloves, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Ensure everything is thoroughly mixed for a balanced spice distribution throughout the bread.
- Cream Butter and Sugar Until Fluffy: Using an electric mixer, beat the softened butter and sugar on medium speed until the mixture is pale and light in texture. This creaming step helps incorporate air for a tender crumb.
- Incorporate Eggs and Pumpkin: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure full incorporation. Then mix in the pumpkin puree. The batter may look a bit grainy or curdled here—this is completely normal and will not affect the final bread texture.
- Blend Dry Ingredients Into Wet: Reduce the mixer speed to low and gradually add the flour and spice mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix just until combined; avoid overmixing to keep your bread moist and tender.
- Bake the Loaves: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared loaf pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 65 to 75 minutes. The bread is done when a toothpick or cake tester inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the loaves to rest in their pans for about 10 minutes after baking, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps the crust set and prevents sogginess.
Notes
- Spice Variations: Feel free to adjust the spice blend to your taste by adding a pinch of ginger or swapping cloves for allspice.
- Butter Substitutions: For a lighter version, you can substitute half the butter with unsweetened applesauce, but note that texture will be slightly different.
- Storage Tips: Once fully cooled, wrap your pumpkin bread tightly in foil or plastic wrap. It keeps well at room temperature for several days or can be frozen for up to 3 months. For frozen loaves, thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
- Serving Suggestion: Toast slices lightly to bring out the fresh-baked crispness, especially if the bread has been stored. Serve with butter, cream cheese, or your favorite spread.
- Sugar Options: You can reduce sugar slightly if you prefer a less sweet bread or try substituting part of it with coconut sugar or brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
Chef’s Secrets for Moist Pumpkin Bread
Achieving the perfect pumpkin bread requires attention to a few simple but essential techniques.
First, make sure your butter is softened—not melted—to create a light, airy batter when creamed with sugar.
This helps develop a tender crumb and prevents a dense loaf.
When adding the pumpkin puree, don’t worry if the batter looks slightly grainy or curdled; this is completely normal and will smooth out during baking.
Use fresh, quality spices for the best flavor—pre-ground spices can lose potency over time, so consider grinding whole spices if you have the tools.
Also, resist overmixing once the dry ingredients are combined; gentle folding preserves the bread’s moist texture.
Finally, baking at a moderate temperature (325°F) and checking doneness with a toothpick ensures a golden crust without drying the inside.
Serving Suggestions to Elevate Flavor
Pumpkin bread is wonderfully versatile and pairs well with a variety of toppings and accompaniments.
For a simple breakfast or snack, enjoy a slice toasted lightly with a pat of butter or cream cheese for a creamy contrast.
You can also spread nut butters like almond or peanut butter for extra protein and richness.
For a decadent twist, top with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup, or a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar.
This bread also makes a fantastic base for French toast, adding warm spices and moisture.
Consider serving alongside a cup of coffee, chai tea, or warm apple cider to complement its autumnal flavors perfectly.
Storage Tips to Keep Bread Fresh
To maintain the freshness and moistness of your pumpkin bread, proper storage is key.
Once completely cooled, wrap each loaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to protect it from air exposure.
Store at room temperature for up to four days in an airtight container or bread box.
For longer storage, pumpkin bread freezes beautifully; wrap it securely and place it in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to three months.
When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm slices briefly in a toaster or oven to revive that freshly baked texture and crispy crust.
Avoid refrigerating bread at room temperature as it can dry out more quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pumpkin Bread
1. Can I substitute canned pumpkin with fresh pumpkin?
Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin puree made by roasting and blending pumpkin flesh.
However, fresh puree may contain more moisture, so it’s best to drain any excess liquid or reduce other wet ingredients slightly to maintain the right batter consistency.
2. Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking flour blend that contains xanthan gum.
Be sure to check the blend’s package instructions for any additional adjustments needed.
3. Can I use oil instead of butter in this recipe?
You can replace butter with a neutral oil like vegetable or canola oil, but the texture and flavor will change slightly.
Oil tends to make the bread denser and moister but lacks the rich flavor butter provides.
4. How can I make the pumpkin bread less sweet?
You can reduce the sugar by up to ¼ cup without greatly affecting texture.
Alternatively, use natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, keeping in mind adjustments in wet ingredients may be necessary.
5. What’s the best way to tell when the bread is fully baked?
Insert a toothpick or cake tester in the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, the bread is done.
If it’s wet or has batter clinging to it, bake for a few more minutes and check again.
This recipe is inspired by onceuponachef and has been carefully refined to enhance clarity, streamline preparation steps, and ensure accurate results. We’ve also included health benefits, nutritional highlights, and Must-Have Tools to help you get the best results every time you cook.