AmericanDessertsSnacksVegetarian
Homemade Pumpkin Bread Recipe
Homemade Pumpkin Bread is a moist, flavorful treat that perfectly captures the warm spices and comforting sweetness of fall. Made with real pumpkin puree, this bread is packed with a cozy blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. It’s a versatile recipe that works well for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert.
Easy to make, this pumpkin bread is tender, fragrant, and pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea. It’s also freezer-friendly, so you can bake a loaf to enjoy now and save some for later!
Key Ingredients & Their Role
- Pumpkin Puree: Adds moisture and a rich, earthy flavor while providing nutrients.
- Spices (Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Cloves): Infuses the bread with warm, cozy flavors.
- Brown Sugar: Enhances the moistness and adds a deep, caramel-like sweetness.
- Oil or Butter: Helps create a soft, tender crumb.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Homemade Pumpkin Bread
1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Combine the Dry Ingredients
- In a large bowl, whisk together 1½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, ½ teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, ½ teaspoon of nutmeg, and ¼ teaspoon of cloves.
3. Mix the Wet Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, beat 1 cup of pumpkin puree, 1 cup of brown sugar, ½ cup of oil (or melted butter), and 2 large eggs until smooth.
4. Combine the Mixtures – Creating a Smooth Batter
- Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender.
5. Pour and Bake – Setting the Flavor
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Cool and Serve
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Enjoy this Homemade Pumpkin Bread with a spread of butter or cream cheese. For a special treat, pair it with Pumpkin Spice Latte or Chai Tea for a truly cozy experience.
Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Bread
- Use Pure Pumpkin: Avoid pumpkin pie filling, as it’s pre-sweetened and seasoned.
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter can lead to a dense texture.
- Add Mix-Ins: For variety, try adding chocolate chips or chopped nuts to the batter.
