If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting treat that fills your kitchen with warm, spicy aromas, this Easy Pumpkin Bread Recipe is exactly what you need. It combines velvety pumpkin puree with classic fall spices and a perfect balance of sweetness to create a moist, tender loaf that’s just bursting with flavor. Whether you’re making it for a quiet morning coffee or sharing it with friends, this pumpkin bread is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s simple enough for even the busiest bakers to whip up.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in delivering that ideal texture and depth of flavor. The selection is straightforward but thoughtfully chosen to bring out the warm essence of pumpkin and spices.
- 1 cup pumpkin puree: The pumpkin adds moisture, moisture, and natural sweetness with a beautiful orange hue.
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure and the perfect crumb to the bread.
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar: Balances the earthiness of pumpkin with light sweetness.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar: Adds a hint of molasses flavor and extra moistness.
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil: Keeps the bread tender and soft without overpowering flavors.
- 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients and contribute to a fluffy texture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the warm aromas and complements spices perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the bread rise beautifully, creating a light texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and amplifies all other flavors.
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: Adds that unmistakable cozy spice note everyone loves in pumpkin bread.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Brings a slightly sweet, nutty warmth that deepens the spice profile.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves: A pinch adds a subtle, aromatic punch to the loaf.
- 1/4 cup milk: Lightens the batter and helps create a tender crumb.
How to Make Easy Pumpkin Bread Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Loaf Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make clean-up effortless. This prep step ensures your bread bakes evenly and comes out perfectly every time.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and milk until the mixture is smooth and uniform. This stage is where the rich, moist base of your loaf forms—making sure everything is well blended sets the foundation for tender bread.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
Sift together flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Adding them gradually to the wet ingredients, stir just until no dry streaks remain. Avoid overmixing to keep your bread light and fluffy instead of dense.
Step 4: Bake Your Pumpkin Bread
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula so it bakes evenly. Place it in your preheated oven and bake for 55 to 60 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean — patience here rewards you with a perfectly cooked loaf.
Step 5: Cool and Slice
Let your pumpkin bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes to set up, then transfer it to a wire rack until completely cooled. This resting time helps maintain the bread’s moist texture and makes slicing easier without crumbling.
How to Serve Easy Pumpkin Bread Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra touch, try spreading softened butter or cream cheese on each slice for a creamy contrast to the spicy, moist bread. A drizzle of honey or maple syrup elevates the sweetness, while chopped nuts add a delightful crunch.
Side Dishes
This easy pumpkin bread pairs beautifully with a steaming cup of coffee or chai tea. For brunch, serve it alongside fresh fruit or a bowl of yogurt to balance the richness with bright, fresh flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Try slicing the bread into smaller pieces and serving it as part of a dessert platter with whipped cream and cinnamon dusting. You can also toast slices lightly for breakfast and add a smear of nut butter or fruit preserves to create a new layered treat inspired by this Easy Pumpkin Bread Recipe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled completely, wrap your pumpkin bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it at room temperature. It will remain moist and fresh for up to 3 days, making it a convenient treat to enjoy throughout the week.
Freezing
If you want to extend the life of your loaf, freezing is an excellent option. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor or texture.
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw frozen slices overnight in the fridge or warm them gently in a microwave for 20 to 30 seconds. You can also toast slices straight from the freezer for a warm, crisp bite that tastes just baked!
FAQs
Can I use canned pumpkin for this recipe?
Absolutely! Canned pumpkin puree works perfectly and is actually a great time-saver. Just make sure you’re using pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling which contains added sugars and spices.
What if I don’t have all the spices on hand?
You can simplify by using just cinnamon and nutmeg if needed—those two spices carry the classic pumpkin bread flavor. The cloves add a little extra warmth but aren’t essential.
Can I substitute the vegetable oil with butter?
Yes, melted butter can be used instead of vegetable oil, but keep in mind this might slightly change the texture—your bread might be a bit denser but richer in flavor.
How do I know when my pumpkin bread is done?
The best test is to insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached, your bread is perfectly baked.
Is this pumpkin bread suitable for freezing and reheating?
Definitely. This Easy Pumpkin Bread Recipe freezes and reheats beautifully, making it a convenient and delicious treat to keep on hand whenever you need a comforting snack or breakfast.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about baking a loaf of pumpkin bread that fills your home with heartwarming scents and delivers that perfect bite of spice and sweetness. This Easy Pumpkin Bread Recipe is one of my favorite go-to recipes because it’s straightforward, satisfying, and always a hit whether you keep it all to yourself or share with loved ones. I can’t wait for you to try it and make some cozy memories around this delightful loaf.
Print
Easy Pumpkin Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (10-12 slices)
- Category: Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This easy pumpkin bread recipe results in a moist, flavorful loaf perfect for fall or any time you crave a sweet, spiced treat. Combining pumpkin puree with warm spices and sugars, it’s a classic quick bread that’s simple to make and delicious for breakfast or snack.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 cup milk
Instructions
- Preheat Oven 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 after baking.
- 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.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Sift the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and ground cloves into the wet mixture. Stir gently just until no dry streaks remain, being careful not to overmix to keep the bread tender.
- Pour Batter into Pan: Pour the prepared batter evenly into the greased or parchment-lined loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula for an even bake.
- Bake the Bread: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 55 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean, indicating the bread is fully cooked.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving to preserve texture and flavor.
Notes
- You can substitute pumpkin puree with canned pumpkin for convenience.
- Check doneness early at 50 minutes to avoid overbaking, as oven temperatures vary.
- Store leftover bread wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature.
- This bread freezes well—slice before freezing for easy thawing and serving.
- For extra texture, consider adding 1/2 cup chopped nuts or chocolate chips if desired.
