Simple and Delicious Pumpkin Bread Recipe

There’s something downright comforting about a slice of warm pumpkin bread fresh from the oven — the kind of cozy treat that instantly sparks fall vibes, even if it’s not quite pumpkin spice season yet. I first fell in love with this Simple and Delicious Pumpkin Bread Recipe when a friend brought it to a chilly weekend brunch. The moment I caught the spicy-sweet aroma wafting from the kitchen, I knew it was destined to become a staple. Since then, I’ve made it countless times, often sharing it with family and friends who always ask for the recipe — it’s that good.

What I love most about this Simple and Delicious Pumpkin Bread Recipe is how it hits all the right notes: the subtle spices like cinnamon and nutmeg mingle with pumpkin’s earthy sweetness, and the texture is so inviting—moist but with a slight crumbly bite. The buttery richness and warm aroma make it perfect for everything from breakfast to afternoon tea. Plus, it’s easy to whip up with pantry staples and requires no fancy equipment.

Don’t worry if you’re new to baking pumpkin bread. I’ll guide you every step of the way with practical tips to ensure success on your first try—no stress, just delicious results. Whether you use a round cake pan or loaf pan, I’ll help you nail the baking times and how to test doneness properly. Let’s get you baking this cozy classic that you’ll want to make again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Be Working With

Before you start, it’s good to note that measuring your ingredients accurately makes a huge difference in the final bread. I always recommend spooning and leveling flour instead of scooping directly from the bag to avoid dense loaves. Exact quantities and details are in the recipe card below.

• All-purpose flour: The base of your bread, for structure; spoon and level for best results.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens without overpowering and helps create a tender crumb.
• Pumpkin puree: Use plain pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling, for true flavor and moisture.
• Unsalted butter: Adds richness and depth; softened to cream easily with sugar.
• Warm milk: Helps blend ingredients smoothly; can microwave for about 30 seconds.
• Large eggs: Bind the bread and give it lift; room temperature mixes better.
• Ground cinnamon and nutmeg: Classic spices that bring warmth and aroma to the bread.
• Vanilla extract: Enhances sweetness and flavor complexity; pure extract is ideal.
• Baking powder and baking soda: Leavening agents that help your bread rise.
• Kosher salt: Balances flavor and boosts the spices and sweetness.

If you need substitutions, you can swap dairy milk for any plant-based milk, and light brown sugar can replace granulated sugar for a deeper caramel note. Just keep those pumpkin and spices consistent for that classic flavor.

Tools You’ll Need

• Mixing bowls: For separating your dry and wet ingredients—makes mixing easier and more controlled.
• Hand mixer: Helps cream butter and sugar until fluffy, speeding up the process and ensuring light texture.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Precision is key here to get the balance of spices and leavening just right.
• Loaf or round cake pan: A loaf pan gives classic bread shape; a round pan works too if you prefer.
• Toothpick or cake tester: To check for doneness without cutting into the bread.
• Spatula or wooden spoon: For folding in the dry ingredients gently.

How to Make Simple and Delicious Pumpkin Bread Recipe

Getting started is straightforward and fun—just gather your ingredients and tools, preheat your oven, and prepare your pan. I’ll walk you through each step so you can focus on the fun part: mixing and smelling that irresistible pumpkin-spice aroma as it bakes.

1. Preheat & prepare your pan: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your pan thoroughly with butter or oil, then dust it with flour, turning to coat the sides evenly. You can also use parchment paper for an easy release.
2. Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, baking powder, baking soda, and kosher salt. This evenly distributes your leavening and spices for uniform flavor and rise.
3. Cream butter and sugar: In a larger bowl, use your hand mixer to beat the softened butter and granulated sugar on high speed until light and fluffy—this usually takes about 2 minutes and helps develop a tender crumb.
4. Add eggs: Crack in the room-temperature eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to keep your batter smooth and stable.
5. Incorporate pumpkin & vanilla: Stir in the pumpkin puree and vanilla extract until fully combined — the batter will start to smell amazing now!
6. Fold in dry ingredients: Add your flour mixture to the wet bowl and gently fold with a spatula or spoon just until combined—overmixing can toughen the bread.
7. Add warm milk: Pour in the warm milk and mix gently until the batter is smooth. Warm milk helps the batter come together nicely without curdling.
8. Pour & bake: Transfer the batter evenly into your prepared pan. If using a loaf pan, place it on a baking sheet to catch any leaks. Bake for 45–50 minutes (cake pan) or 50–55 minutes (loaf pan), until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
9. Cool gently: Let the bread cool for 15 minutes in the pan, then carefully loosen the edges with a knife and invert onto a wire rack or plate to cool another 15 minutes. The resting finish helps prevent sogginess and firms up the texture.

How to Serve

Flavor Boosters

To enhance your Simple and Delicious Pumpkin Bread Recipe, try topping slices with a light drizzle of maple glaze or a smear of cream cheese frosting for an extra touch of sweetness. For a savory balance, a spread of herb butter or a sprinkle of toasted pecans adds delightful texture and flavor contrast.

Perfect Pairings

This pumpkin bread pairs beautifully with cinnamon-spiced coffee, chai tea, or even a creamy latte. For a cozy afternoon snack, serve with a side of apple cider or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to complement the warm spices and pumpkin richness.

Presentation Touches

For gifting or gatherings, slice the pumpkin bread into even squares and wrap each piece in parchment paper tied with twine for a charming rustic look. Or, plate fresh slices topped with a dusting of powdered sugar and a sprig of fresh sage for a festive touch that wows guests.

Variations & Easy Swaps

• Add chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch.
• Stir in chocolate chips for a rich, melty surprise.
• Use maple syrup instead of sugar for a natural sweetener.
• Swap regular flour with gluten-free blend for gluten sensitivity.
• Replace butter with coconut oil for a dairy-free version.
• Mix in a handful of dried cranberries or raisins for chewy bursts.

Make-Ahead, Storage & Reheating

• Store cooled bread wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, freeze sliced bread for up to 3 months; thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Reheat slices in a toaster oven or microwave for 15–20 seconds to revive moistness and flavor.
• Leftover bread can also be used as a base for pumpkin French toast – just dip and cook as usual.

FAQs

• Q: Can I use canned pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree?
  A: It’s best to use plain pumpkin puree for this recipe to avoid extra sugar and spices that change the taste and texture.
• Q: How do I know when the pumpkin bread is fully baked?
  A: Insert a toothpick into the center — it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs; avoid wet batter on the stick.
• Q: Can I make this bread vegan?
  A: Yes! Use plant-based milk, replace butter with coconut oil or vegan butter, and swap eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flax + 3 tbsp water per egg).
• Q: Does the type of pan affect baking time?
  A: Yes, a loaf pan may take a bit longer than a cake pan. Keep an eye and test regularly starting at 45 minutes.
• Q: Can I add other spices?
  A: Absolutely! Feel free to add ginger, cloves, or allspice to suit your taste, but start with small amounts to keep balance.

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