The Best Old-Fashioned Pumpkin Bread Recipe for Fall Baking

Memories of grandma’s kitchen come alive with this classic old-fashioned pumpkin bread that whispers comfort and warmth.

Autumn afternoons smell incredible when spices swirl through your home.

Soft, moist crumbs promise a delightful treat straight from cherished recipe cards.

Nostalgic flavors blend perfectly with modern baking techniques.

Simple ingredients dance together, creating magic in every slice.

Cozy moments await you with this traditional quick bread that connects generations.

Bake this recipe and watch smiles bloom around your table.

FAQs

• Can I use canned pumpkin puree for this recipe?

Yes, canned pure pumpkin works perfectly. Just make sure it’s 100% pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling.

• Is it possible to make this bread gluten-free?

You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, but the texture might be slightly different from the original recipe.

• How do I know if the pumpkin bread is fully baked?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the bread. If it comes out clean with no wet batter, the bread is done. If there are wet crumbs, bake for a few more minutes.

• Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?

You can reduce sugar by about 1/4 cup, but it might affect the bread’s moisture and texture. For best results, follow the original measurements.

Old-Fashioned Pumpkin Bread That Tastes Like Fall Memories

• Effortless Baking Adventure: Dive into a foolproof recipe that welcomes bakers of all skill levels, making pumpkin bread preparation a breeze for novices and seasoned cooks alike.
• Comfort Food Champion: Indulge in a warm, spiced treat that brings cozy autumn vibes to your kitchen, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings and sharing with loved ones.
• Flexible Family Pleaser: Easily adaptable for different pan sizes and perfect for meal prep, this recipe serves up delightful slices that everyone from kids to grandparents will adore.
• Seasonal Sensation: Celebrate fall's favorite flavors with a classic recipe that transforms simple ingredients into a mouthwatering dessert or snack that captures the essence of the season.

Old-Fashioned Pumpkin Bread Ingredient Guide

• Pumpkin Puree: Smooth and creamy base for the bread's signature flavor.
• Eggs: Provide structure and richness to the bread.
• Vegetable Oil: Ensures moisture and tender texture.
• Water: Helps blend ingredients smoothly.
• Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with caramelization.

• All-Purpose Flour: Foundational ingredient for bread's structure.
• Baking Powder, Baking Soda: Leavening agents for soft, risen bread.
• Salt: Enhances overall flavor profile.

• Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Cloves: Warm spices that create classic pumpkin bread flavor.
• Orange Zest: Adds bright, citrusy notes to complement the pumpkin.

Pumpkin Bread (Old-Fashioned) Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Baking Space

Get your oven warmed up to 350°F. Grab two medium-sized loaf pans and coat them generously with cooking spray or butter, then dust with flour to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Create Wet Mixture

• Pumpkin puree
• Eggs
• Vegetable oil
• Water

Whisk everything together until smooth and well-blended.

Step 3: Sweeten the Mixture

Gradually pour sugar into the wet ingredients, stirring consistently until completely dissolved and creating a silky texture.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Baking soda
• Salt
• Ground cinnamon
• Nutmeg
• Cloves

Whisk these ingredients until they’re evenly distributed.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures

Gently fold dry ingredients into wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Add orange zest for an extra burst of flavor.

Step 6: Fill Loaf Pans

Pour batter evenly into prepared pans, making sure to spread it smoothly.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Place pans in preheated oven and bake for 60-70 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center – it should come out clean.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Allow bread to rest in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Let cool completely before slicing and enjoying your homemade pumpkin bread.

Baking Notes for Old-Fashioned Pumpkin Bread

• Measure Precisely: Use exact measurements for flour and spices to ensure consistent, delicious results every time.
• Check Moisture Level: Drain excess liquid from canned pumpkin to prevent soggy bread and maintain perfect texture.
• Prevent Overmixing: Stir batter gently until ingredients are just combined to keep bread tender and avoid tough texture.
• Test for Doneness: Insert a toothpick in the center – if it comes out clean with a few moist crumbs, the bread is perfectly baked.
• Store Smartly: Wrap cooled bread in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days, or freeze for longer preservation.

Pumpkin Bread: Easy Storage That Keeps It Soft

• Wrap the pumpkin bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 5 days, maintaining its moisture and freshness.
• Slice the bread, wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months, ensuring maximum flavor retention.
• Keep the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days, away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
• Warm individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or toast in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes until slightly crisp and warm.

Pumpkin Bread Complements

• Pair with Rich Vanilla Chai Latte: Creamy, spiced chai tea complements the warm, aromatic pumpkin bread perfectly, enhancing the cinnamon and nutmeg notes with its own complex flavor profile.
• Serve alongside Maple Cream Cheese Spread: Whip softened cream cheese with pure maple syrup for a decadent, silky topping that adds luxurious sweetness to each slice of bread.
• Match with Caramel Pecan Butter: Create a nutty, buttery spread by mixing softened butter with toasted pecans and a drizzle of caramel sauce, adding rich depth to the pumpkin bread's classic taste.
• Enjoy with Spiced Apple Cider: Warm, mulled apple cider with hints of cinnamon and clove creates a comforting autumn-inspired beverage that beautifully echoes the bread's seasonal spices.

Old-Fashioned Pumpkin Bread Recipe: Spiced-Up Suggestions

• Gluten-Free Pumpkin Bread: Replace wheat flour with almond flour or gluten-free blend for those with celiac disease or wheat sensitivities.
• Vegan Pumpkin Bread: Substitute eggs with flax eggs, use coconut oil instead of vegetable oil, and swap sugar with maple syrup or coconut sugar for plant-based version.
• Low-Sugar Pumpkin Bread: Use stevia or monk fruit sweetener to reduce sugar content, perfect for diabetic or weight-conscious individuals.
• Nut-Infused Pumpkin Bread: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for extra crunch and nutritional boost, providing protein and healthy fats.