If you’re craving something warm, cozy, and bursting with autumn flavors, you’re going to fall head over heels for this Easy Pumpkin Bread Recipe. It’s a moist, spiced loaf that captures the essence of fall in every bite, with pumpkin puree enriching the texture and classic spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves adding that perfect hint of nostalgia. Whether it’s for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, this pumpkin bread offers a delightful way to enjoy seasonal flavors without any fuss. Plus, it comes together quickly with simple pantry staples, making it an absolute winner anytime you want a touch of homemade comfort.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Easy Pumpkin Bread Recipe lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each one plays an important role, from the pumpkin puree adding moisture and vibrant color, to the blend of sugars and spices that create depth and warmth.
- 1 cup pumpkin puree: The star of the show, this gives the bread its rich moisture and beautiful orange hue.
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure and the perfect crumb texture for the loaf.
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness without overpowering the spices.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar: Brings a subtle caramel note and helps keep the bread tender.
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil: Ensures the bread stays moist and soft, avoiding dryness.
- 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients together and give the bread body.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a sweet, aromatic touch.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Leavens the bread, helping it rise beautifully during baking.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances and highlights the sweetness and spices.
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: A classic spice that lends warmth and a hint of sweetness.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds a warm, slightly nutty flavor to complement the cinnamon.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves: Powerful and aromatic, just a pinch gives the bread that cozy, festive edge.
- 1/4 cup milk: Adds moisture and helps create a tender crumb texture.
How to Make Easy Pumpkin Bread Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to make sure it’s perfectly hot and ready for baking. Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal and clean-up later. This step is essential for that flawless, golden crust.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and milk until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This combination creates the moist, tender base that makes this pumpkin bread so irresistible.
Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients
Next, sift in the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves to the wet mixture. Gently stir just until there are no visible dry streaks—be careful not to overmix here to keep the bread light and fluffy. This is where the classic warm spices infuse the batter, building that signature pumpkin bread flavor.
Step 4: Transfer and Smooth
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top gently with a spatula. Even spreading ensures the bread bakes uniformly with a perfectly tender crumb throughout.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake the pumpkin bread for 55–60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The kitchen will start filling with those wonderful fall aromas, building excitement for the delicious treat about to come.
Step 6: Cool and Slice
Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes so it firms up just enough to remove easily. Then transfer to a wire rack and let it cool completely before slicing. This pause lets the flavors develop fully and the texture set perfectly. Ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Easy Pumpkin Bread Recipe
Garnishes
While this pumpkin bread is charming all on its own, a light spread of cream cheese or a drizzle of honey takes it to the next level. You can also sprinkle some chopped nuts or a dusting of powdered sugar for a pretty, inviting finish.
Side Dishes
Pair your pumpkin bread with a cup of hot coffee, chai tea, or a warm glass of spiced apple cider. If you’re serving it at brunch, fresh fruit or a dollop of yogurt complement the richness of the bread beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress guests? Slice the bread thick, toast it lightly, and layer with mascarpone and a few tart berries for a stunning fall-inspired dessert or snack platter. You can even cube it up and serve alongside vanilla ice cream for a fun pumpkin bread pudding twist!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap your leftover pumpkin bread tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. It stays moist and flavorful without drying out, making it perfect for quick breakfasts or afternoon treats.
Freezing
If you want to save some pumpkin bread for later, freezing is a great option. Wrap individual slices or the whole loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. It will keep well for up to three months, ready to thaw whenever you need a cozy bite.
Reheating
To enjoy your pumpkin bread warm, simply reheat slices in the microwave for about 20 seconds or toast them lightly. Warming brings out the aroma and softness again, making every bite even more comforting.
FAQs
Can I use canned pumpkin for this Easy Pumpkin Bread Recipe?
Absolutely! Canned pumpkin puree works perfectly and is actually the most convenient option. Just make sure to use pure pumpkin and not pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugars and spices.
Can I substitute the vegetable oil with butter?
You can replace vegetable oil with melted butter if you prefer a richer flavor. Keep in mind that butter may change the texture slightly, making it a bit denser, but it will still be delicious.
Is it possible to make this bread gluten-free?
Yes! Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that is designed for baking. The texture might be a bit different, but the flavors will still shine through beautifully.
How do I know when the pumpkin bread is fully baked?
The best test is inserting a toothpick or skewer into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs clinging to it, the bread is done and ready to cool.
Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to this recipe?
Definitely! Stir in a half cup of chopped walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips into the batter before baking to add crunchy texture or extra sweetness according to your taste.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Pumpkin Bread Recipe is one of those heartwarming flavors that instantly feels like home. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, its straightforward method and irresistible taste make it a reliable classic to add to your recipe collection. So go ahead and treat yourself to a slice (or two); you deserve every crumb of this cozy comfort!
Print
Easy Pumpkin Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (about 8-10 slices)
- Category: Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Easy Pumpkin Bread recipe is a moist, spiced quick bread perfect for cozy fall mornings or an indulgent snack. Made with pumpkin puree, warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, and a blend of brown and granulated sugars, it’s a delightful treat that’s simple to prepare and bakes up beautifully golden with a tender crumb.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup milk
Dry Ingredients
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the bread.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and milk until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: Sift together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Gradually add these dry ingredients into the wet mixture and stir gently until no dry streaks remain, being careful not to overmix to keep the bread tender.
- Transfer Batter to Pan: Pour the finished batter into the prepared loaf pan. Use a spatula to smooth the top evenly for uniform baking.
- Bake the Bread: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 55 to 60 minutes. Test doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the loaf; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
- Cool and Serve: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes to set, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, slice and serve your delicious pumpkin bread.
Notes
- For extra moisture and flavor, you can add 1/2 cup chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the batter before baking.
- Store pumpkin bread wrapped tightly at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- Freeze sliced bread in an airtight container for up to 3 months for easy thawing and snacking later.
- If you prefer a denser bread, reduce the milk to 2 tablespoons.
- Make sure not to overmix the batter once the flour is added to avoid a tough texture.
