If you’re on the hunt for a cozy, flavor-packed treat that feels like a warm hug in every bite, let me introduce you to the magic of Pumpkin Bread. This classic loaf is bursting with the rich, earthy sweetness of pumpkin paired with a perfect blend of autumn spices that make it utterly irresistible. Moist, tender, and wonderfully fragrant, Pumpkin Bread is not just a seasonal favorite but a year-round delight that will quickly become a household staple. Whether you’re nibbling it for breakfast, snack time, or dessert, this recipe is an absolute winner that’s easy to prepare and even easier to love.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Pumpkin Bread recipe lies in its simplicity; with just a handful of essential ingredients, you get layers of flavor, moisture, and that iconic fall color. Each item plays a vital role—from the pumpkin puree that infuses moisture and earthiness to the warming spices that give the bread its distinct character.

1 cup canned pumpkin puree: The star ingredient that provides moisture, sweetness, and that vibrant orange hue.

1/2 cup granulated sugar: Adds balanced sweetness without overpowering the pumpkin’s natural flavor.
1/2 cup packed brown sugar: Brings a subtle molasses richness and extra moisture to the loaf.

1/2 cup vegetable oil: Keeps the bread tender and moist without making it heavy.
2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add structure to the bread.

1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a warm, sweet aroma.
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The base that gives the bread its body and crumb.
1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the bread rise for a light, fluffy texture.

1 teaspoon baking powder: Works with baking soda to give that perfect lift.
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds that classic warm spice note we all adore.
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Gives a subtle nutty sweetness that complements the pumpkin beautifully.

1/4 teaspoon ground ginger: Provides a gentle zing that brightens the overall taste.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances and enhances the flavors, rounding everything out.

How to Make Pumpkin Bread

Step 1: Preparations and Preheating

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×5 inch loaf pan. This simple step ensures your Pumpkin Bread bakes evenly and comes out of the pan effortlessly, setting the stage for a flawless loaf.

Step 2: Mixing the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the canned pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk everything together until smooth and fully incorporated. This mixture is the moist, flavorful foundation of your Pumpkin Bread, so take a moment to enjoy how its aromas come alive.

Step 3: Combining the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt. This blend of dry ingredients includes all the leavening agents and spices, essential for giving your bread its rise, lift, and those irresistible warm notes.

Step 4: Bringing It All Together

Gently add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring carefully with a rubber spatula until just combined. It’s really important not to overmix here because you want your Pumpkin Bread to be tender and soft, not dense or tough. A few lumps are perfectly fine!

Step 5: Baking the Loaf

Pour your batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with the spatula for an even bake. Place it in the oven and bake for about 60 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when a toothpick inserted right in the center comes out clean—no sticky batter attached.

Step 6: Cooling Before Enjoying

Once baked, let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes—this helps it set gently. Then carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is crucial if you want perfectly sliced pieces without any crumbling. Resist the urge to dive in too soon—it’s worth the wait!

How to Serve Pumpkin Bread

Garnishes

A simple spread of butter brings out the flavors of Pumpkin Bread beautifully, but for extra indulgence, try a smear of cream cheese or honey butter. You can also sprinkle chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts on top to add a satisfying crunch that contrasts the bread’s tender crumb.

Side Dishes

Pumpkin Bread pairs wonderfully with a cup of chai tea or a rich latte, making it perfect for breakfast or an afternoon treat. For a heartier snack, combine it with a side of fresh fruit or a dollop of Greek yogurt to brighten the palate and add balance.

Creative Ways to Present

Get creative by turning your Pumpkin Bread into French toast or bread pudding for a festive twist. You can also slice and toast it, then top with a drizzle of maple syrup and a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar for a decadent yet simple dessert that everyone will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover Pumpkin Bread, don’t worry—it keeps well at room temperature for a couple of days if wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container. This keeps the bread moist and prevents it from drying out.

Freezing

For longer storage, slice the loaf and freeze individual pieces. Wrap each slice in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. When you want a quick treat, simply thaw at room temperature or toast slices directly from frozen.

Reheating

To revive that fresh-baked feel, warm slices of Pumpkin Bread in a toaster oven or microwave for 15 to 20 seconds. This brings out the smell of spices and softens the bread, making each bite a delightful experience just like the day it was made.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?

Absolutely! If using fresh pumpkin, roast and puree it thoroughly first. Keep in mind fresh pumpkin puree may contain more water, so you might need to adjust the flour slightly to maintain the right batter consistency.

Is there a way to make this Pumpkin Bread gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that contains xanthan gum. Be sure to check that your baking powder and baking soda are gluten-free as well.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to the batter?

Definitely! Adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips can enhance texture and flavor. Fold them in gently after combining the wet and dry ingredients to keep the batter light and airy.

How long does Pumpkin Bread stay fresh?

Stored properly at room temperature in an airtight container, Pumpkin Bread typically stays fresh for about 2 to 3 days. Refrigerating can extend its life by a few more days, but it may dry out faster.

What can I do if my Pumpkin Bread turns out dense or dry?

This usually happens when the batter is overmixed or baked too long. To avoid this, mix until just combined and keep a close watch on baking time. Adding a bit more oil or a splash of applesauce can also boost moisture.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about the humble Pumpkin Bread—how it brings comfort, nostalgia, and a burst of seasonal flavor all at once. With this simple, foolproof recipe in your kitchen, you’re ready to enjoy moist, tender slices anytime you crave that perfect fall feeling. So go ahead, bake a loaf today and share the joy of Pumpkin Bread with those you love. It’s a guaranteed way to brighten any day.

Pumpkin Bread Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 6 reviews

Author: Noah
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Yield: 1 loaf (about 8–10 slices) 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

This moist and flavorful Pumpkin Bread recipe is perfect for fall and holiday seasons. Made with canned pumpkin puree and warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, it combines the perfect balance of sweetness and spice. Ideal for breakfast, snacks, or a comforting dessert, this bread is easy to prepare and delivers a tender crumb with a deliciously aromatic taste.

Instructions

Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan to prevent the bread from sticking during baking.
Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the canned pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and well blended.

Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground ginger, and salt to ensure even distribution of the leavening agents and spices.
Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Stir gently with a rubber spatula until just combined, making sure not to overmix as this could make the bread tough.
Pour Batter and Smooth: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the surface with the spatula to ensure uniform baking.

Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 60 minutes. Test for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when the bread is fully baked.
Cool: Remove the loaf 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.

Notes

Do not overmix the batter to maintain a tender crumb.

You can add nuts or chocolate chips for extra texture and flavor.
Store the pumpkin bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

Ensure canned pumpkin puree is 100% pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling, to avoid excess sugar and spices.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes

Category: Bread
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice (about 60g)
Calories: 180
Sugar: 14g

Sodium: 210mg
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 1g

Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 26g

Fiber: 2g
Protein: 2g
Cholesterol: 35mg

Keywords: Pumpkin bread, fall recipe, moist pumpkin bread, easy pumpkin bread, spiced pumpkin loaf