If you’ve been searching for a cozy, flavorful treat that’s perfect for any time of the year, you’ve hit the jackpot with this Easy Pumpkin Bread Recipe. This bread is wonderfully moist, packed with warm spices, and boasts a tender crumb that feels like a hug in every bite. Whether you’re baking to impress friends or just craving some homemade comfort, this recipe is straightforward enough to whip up without any fuss, yet delivers rich, irresistible flavors that feel utterly decadent. Let’s dive into the magic of creating pumpkin bread that’s as simple as it is spectacular.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step towards pumpkin bread perfection. Each selection is crucial—flour for structure, spices for that classic fall warmth, and the pumpkin puree lending both moisture and vibrant color that brightens your loaf.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the foundation for your bread’s texture.
- 1½ cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the bread while helping it brown beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda (sifted): Works with baking powder to give a light, airy crumb.
- 2 teaspoons baking powder: Adds that essential rise and fluffiness.
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: Brings warm, spicy notes that every bite craves.
- ½ teaspoon ground cloves (optional): Offers a subtle depth and aromatic zing.
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional): Adds a nutty, slightly sweet warmth.
- ½ teaspoon fine sea salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all other flavors.
- 3 large eggs, at room temperature: Bind ingredients and contribute richness.
- 1 cup extra light olive oil (or vegetable or corn oil): Keeps the bread moist and tender without overpowering flavor.
- 15 oz canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling): The star ingredient that provides moisture, flavor, and that iconic pumpkin orange hue.
How to Make Easy Pumpkin Bread Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Pans
Make sure to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms, grease and flour two loaf pans measuring approximately 8½” x 4½” so the bread will release easily after baking. This simple prep step ensures your loaves come out with perfect edges.
Step 2: Whisk Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and salt. Whisking these together evenly distributes the baking agents and spices, ensuring consistent flavor and texture throughout your bread.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs until smooth. Add in the oil and pumpkin puree, stirring until completely blended. This mixture is what imparts moisture and that unmistakable pumpkin flavor to your bread.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture carefully. Stir just until everything comes together—overmixing can create a tough loaf, so patience is key here. You want the batter to be thick but smooth.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Divide the batter evenly between your two prepared pans. Pop them into the oven and bake for 45 to 55 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs clinging.
Step 6: Cool Before Slicing
Allow your pumpkin bread to cool in the pans for 10 to 15 minutes — this settling time helps keep the loaves intact. Then transfer them onto a wire rack to cool completely before slicing, so you’ll get those perfect slices without any crumbs flying everywhere.
How to Serve Easy Pumpkin Bread Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes can elevate your pumpkin bread from everyday delicious to something special. A light dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of cream cheese glaze, or even a sprinkle of chopped toasted pecans can add texture and visual appeal. Whipped butter or a smear of cinnamon honey butter makes every bite luscious and warm.
Side Dishes
Serve a slice alongside hot coffee or spiced chai for the perfect midday pick-me-up. This bread also pairs wonderfully with creamy soups or hearty stews, complementing their savory flavors with a hint of sweetness and spice.
Creative Ways to Present
Think beyond just plain slices! Transform your pumpkin bread into an elegant dessert by serving it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or layering slices with mascarpone and cranberry sauce for a festive trifle. Wrapped in parchment for gifting or arranged on a rustic wooden board, your Easy Pumpkin Bread Recipe becomes a true centerpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, keep your pumpkin bread wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. This helps maintain moisture while preventing it from drying out.
Freezing
You can freeze whole loaves or individual slices by first wrapping them in plastic wrap and then placing them inside a freezer-safe bag. Frozen pumpkin bread keeps wonderfully for up to three months — ideal for making ahead and enjoying pumpkin goodness long after baking day.
Reheating
To bring leftover pumpkin bread back to life, gently warm slices in a toaster oven or microwave for 15 to 20 seconds. Adding a pat of butter before warming amps up indulgence, making each bite feel freshly baked and cozy.
FAQs
Can I substitute fresh pumpkin for canned puree?
Absolutely, but fresh pumpkin needs to be cooked and pureed before using, and the moisture content can vary. Canned pumpkin puree gives you consistent results and convenience for this Easy Pumpkin Bread Recipe.
What makes this recipe easy compared to other pumpkin breads?
This recipe is straightforward with minimal mixing steps, uses common pantry staples, and requires no special equipment. The balance of wet and dry ingredients is forgiving, making it perfect for bakers at any experience level.
Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?
Definitely! Adding a cup of chopped walnuts, pecans, or even chocolate chips can add wonderful texture and flavor without altering the baking time significantly.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
You can try swapping the flour for a gluten-free all-purpose blend, but be aware that texture and rise may change slightly. Using a blend that includes xanthan gum tends to work best.
How long does pumpkin bread stay fresh?
When stored properly at room temperature, this Easy Pumpkin Bread Recipe stays fresh for about four days. Refrigerating extends that to a week but may dry the bread out unless wrapped very well.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Pumpkin Bread Recipe is truly a winner in any kitchen. Its blend of spice, moist texture, and simple preparation makes it a go-to for cozy mornings, afternoon treats, or sharing with loved ones. Once you try it, you’ll wonder how you ever enjoyed pumpkin bread any other way. Happy baking and even happier eating!
Print
Easy Pumpkin Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings (two loaves)
- Category: Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Easy Pumpkin Bread recipe delivers moist, flavorful loaves packed with warm spices perfect for autumn or any time you crave a comforting, homemade treat. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can bake two delicious pumpkin bread loaves that are perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda (sifted)
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground cloves (optional)
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
Wet Ingredients
- 3 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 cup extra light olive oil (or vegetable or corn oil)
- 15 oz canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8½” x 4½” loaf pans to ensure the bread does not stick and bakes evenly.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and salt until thoroughly combined to distribute the leavening agents and spices evenly.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, oil, and pumpkin puree together until the mixture is smooth and uniform.
- Combine Mixtures: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Gently stir until just combined, being careful not to overmix to keep the bread tender and avoid toughness.
- Bake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared loaf pans. Place in the oven and bake for 45–55 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
- Cool: Let the loaves cool in the pans for 10–15 minutes, then carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing to prevent crumbly texture.
Notes
- Do not overmix the batter to ensure a tender crumb.
- Use canned pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, for best flavor and texture.
- Optional spices like cloves and nutmeg can be adjusted or omitted based on preference.
- Ensure eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
- Store pumpkin bread tightly wrapped at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
