The Best Fall Pumpkin Bread Recipe: Warm & Cozy Comfort

Autumn arrives with a burst of warmth through homemade pumpkin bread that captures the essence of cozy comfort.

Spices dance through the kitchen, filling every corner with an inviting aroma.

Rich, moist, and perfectly seasoned, this quick bread becomes a seasonal favorite for anyone seeking a delightful treat.

Each slice promises a delectable journey through fall’s most beloved flavors.

Soft crumbs and hints of cinnamon create a memorable experience that feels like a culinary embrace.

Bakers of all skill levels can master this simple yet incredible recipe.

Prepare to fall in love with a slice of pure, spiced happiness.

How to Store and Serve Pumpkin Bread Later

• Store leftover pumpkin bread wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Keep it in an airtight container to maintain moisture and prevent drying out.
• Wrap individual slices or entire loaves in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before enjoying.
• Warm refrigerated or thawed slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for a soft, fresh-like texture. Alternatively, toast briefly in a toaster oven to restore some crispness on the edges.
• If serving within 1-2 days, keep the bread covered at room temperature in a cool, dry place. Avoid direct sunlight or heat sources to prevent staleness.

Pumpkin Bread Pairings You’ll Enjoy

Savor Complementary Flavors: Elevate Your Pumpkin Bread Experience

• Brew Cozy Coffee Companion: Dark roast or espresso creates a rich contrast with the bread's sweet, spiced profile. The robust coffee cuts through the dessert's creamy texture, enhancing each delectable bite.
• Pair with Creamy Spread: Whipped maple butter or cinnamon cream cheese amplifies the bread's warmth. These smooth spreads add extra layers of flavor, making each slice more indulgent and satisfying.
• Match with Warm Beverage: Chai tea or mulled apple cider perfectly complement the pumpkin bread's autumnal spices. Their gentle warmth and complex notes create a harmonious taste experience that feels like a comforting hug.
• Serve with Vanilla Cream: A dollop of vanilla bean whipped cream provides a light, cool counterpoint to the bread's dense, rich texture. The subtle sweetness elevates the overall dessert, creating a balanced and delightful treat.

Pumpkin Bread Recipe Ideas to Try

• Gluten-Free Pumpkin Bread: Replace all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blend and ensure instant pudding mix is also gluten-free. Use xanthan gum if the blend doesn't include a binding agent.
• Vegan Pumpkin Loaf: Substitute eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg), use coconut oil instead of butter, and select plant-based vanilla pudding mix. Choose organic cane sugar for vegan requirements.
• Lower-Sugar Pumpkin Bread: Reduce granulated and brown sugar by half, replace remaining sweetness with monk fruit sweetener or stevia. Add extra spices like ginger or cardamom to enhance flavor complexity without additional calories.
• Dairy-Free Version: Eliminate butter and replace with additional canola oil or coconut oil. Select dairy-free instant pudding mix and ensure all ingredients are dairy-free certified.

FAQs

• Why use instant vanilla pudding mix in pumpkin bread?

The pudding mix adds moisture, creates a softer texture, and helps prevent the bread from becoming dry or crumbly.

• Can I make this pumpkin bread without eggs?

No, eggs are crucial for binding and providing structure. Substituting eggs might significantly change the bread’s texture and consistency.

• 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. The baking time is typically 60-70 minutes at 325°F.

• Is it necessary to use room temperature eggs?

Yes, room temperature eggs blend more smoothly with other ingredients and help create a more uniform batter, resulting in a better overall texture of the pumpkin bread.

What Makes This Pumpkin Bread So Cozy

• Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Packed with warm spices and rich pumpkin flavor, this bread delivers a cozy, nostalgic taste that appeals to both kids and adults, making it an instant family favorite.
• Versatile Treat Sensation: Enjoy as a delightful breakfast, afternoon snack, or dessert – this pumpkin bread transitions seamlessly between meals and occasions, from casual family gatherings to potluck parties.
• Customizable Flavor Adventure: Easily personalize the recipe by adjusting spices or adding mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips, allowing you to create a unique twist on this classic autumn classic.

What You Need for Homemade Pumpkin Bread

• Eggs: Fresh and bring richness to the bread.
• Pumpkin Puree: Smooth orange vegetable that adds moisture.
• Canola Oil, Melted Butter: Help create a tender texture.
• Brown Sugar: Adds deep sweetness with caramel notes.
• Vanilla Extract: Brings warm, comforting flavor.

• All-Purpose Flour: Classic baking staple for structure.
• Granulated Sugar: Provides sweet foundation.
• Instant Vanilla Pudding Mix: Secret ingredient for extra moisture.
• Baking Soda, Baking Powder: Help bread rise and become fluffy.
• Salt: Enhances overall flavor.

• Ground Cinnamon, Ground Nutmeg: Warm fall spices that complement pumpkin.
• Cinnamon and Sugar Topping: Sweet optional sprinkle for extra crunch.

How to Bake a Perfect Pumpkin Bread

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Preheat the oven to 325°F.

This sets the perfect temperature for baking your golden, fragrant bread.

Step 2: Blend Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer to beat the eggs until well combined.

• Pumpkin puree
• Canola oil
• Melted butter
• Brown sugar
• Vanilla extract

Mix everything until the mixture looks smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

• All-purpose flour
• Granulated sugar
• Instant vanilla pudding mix
• Baking soda
• Ground cinnamon
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Ground nutmeg

Pro tip: For extra fall flavor, consider adding more pumpkin pie spice.

Step 4: Merge Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually blend the dry ingredients into the wet mixture.

Beat until everything is perfectly incorporated.

Step 5: Prepare Baking Pans

Spray two 8.5 x 4.5 inch loaf pans with non-stick baking spray or line with parchment paper.

Step 6: Create Topping Optional

• Granulated sugar
• Ground cinnamon

Sprinkle this mixture on top of the batter if desired.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Pour batter into prepared pans and smooth the tops.

Bake for 60-70 minutes.

The bread is ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Let the bread cool slightly before slicing.

Enjoy your homemade autumn treat!

Handy Tips for Pumpkin Bread Success

• Add an extra teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon to amplify the warm, autumnal taste profile of the bread.
• Use room temperature eggs and ensure pumpkin puree is well-drained to prevent a soggy texture and maintain ideal bread consistency.
• Experiment with additional spices like ground ginger or cardamom for a personalized flavor twist that suits your taste preferences.
• Cover loaf pans with aluminum foil midway through baking to protect edges from over-browning and maintain a moist, tender crumb.
• Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend and add 1/2 teaspoon xanthan gum to help bind the ingredients and maintain bread structure.

Pumpkin Bread Recipe

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4.8 from 16 reviews

• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Yield: 12 1x

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Description

Irresistible pumpkin bread brings autumn’s warmth straight to your kitchen, blending classic spices with rich, moist texture. Comfort meets culinary craft in this delightful seasonal treat you’ll savor with each delectable slice.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 1, 15 ounces (425 grams) 100% pumpkin puree
• 5 large eggs, room temperature
• 1/2 cup (100 grams) brown sugar, packed (dark or light)

Wet Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) canola oil
• 1/4 cup (60 milliliters) melted butter, unsalted, slightly cooled
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

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Instructions

1. Prepare a welcoming autumn atmosphere in your kitchen by gathering all ingredients and preheating the oven to 325°F.
2. Whisk eggs thoroughly in a spacious mixing bowl until they become light and frothy.
3. Incorporate pumpkin puree, canola oil, melted butter, brown sugar, and vanilla extract into the egg mixture, blending until a smooth, harmonious consistency develops.
4. In a separate bowl, carefully combine all dry ingredients: flour, granulated sugar, instant vanilla pudding mix, baking soda, cinnamon, baking powder, salt, and nutmeg.
5. Gradually fold the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring gently to create a uniform batter without overmixing.
6. Prepare loaf pans by generously coating with non-stick baking spray or lining with parchment paper to ensure easy bread removal.
7. Distribute the batter evenly between the two loaf pans, using a spatula to smooth the surfaces.
8. Optional: Sprinkle a delicate mixture of cinnamon and sugar across the top of each loaf for an extra touch of sweetness.
9. Place pans in the preheated oven and bake for 60-70 minutes, monitoring until a toothpick inserted into the center emerges clean.
10. Remove from oven and allow the bread to cool slightly before slicing, letting the enticing aroma of spices fill your kitchen.

Notes

• Boost the spice levels by adding extra pumpkin pie spice or warming spices like ginger and cloves for a more intense fall flavor profile.
• Swap out canola oil with healthier alternatives like coconut oil or applesauce to reduce overall fat content and add subtle complexity.
• Create gluten-free version by using a one-to-one gluten-free flour blend, ensuring the bread remains moist and tender without compromising texture.
• Customize the sweetness by reducing sugar or using alternative sweeteners like maple syrup or honey for a more natural, nuanced taste experience.

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 65 minutes
• Category: Breakfast, Snacks, Desserts
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 197
• Sugar: 6 g
• Sodium: 70 mg
• Fat: 11 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 22 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 4 g
• Cholesterol: 77 mg