Pumpkin Bread

Creating an easy pumpkin bread recipe that is both moist and flavorful can be a challenge. This recipe harnesses the natural moisture of pumpkin puree—an entire can, in fact—to ensure a soft, tender loaf that stays fresh for days. Coupled with warm spices, this bread brings comfort and nostalgia, making it a perfect bake for any season. There’s something undeniably heartwarming about fresh-baked bread, and this easy pumpkin bread recipe is no exception. With just ten minutes of prep, it’s a low-effort yet rewarding dish that fills the home with enticing autumnal aromas. Perfect for breakfast or as an afternoon snack, this bread appeals to both seasoned bakers and beginners alike. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s get baking!

Why This Recipe Works

This easy pumpkin bread recipe stands out because it uses ingredients that work harmoniously together. The pumpkin puree serves as the star, offering moisture and flavor. By including an entire can, the bread maintains its tenderness over time. Furthermore, the blend of spices not only enhances the pumpkin but also evokes warm memories of fall gatherings. The balance of sugars adds just the right amount of sweetness, which complements the warmth perfectly. Together, these elements create a wonderfully moist loaf, making your pumpkin bread a delightful treat, no matter the occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Pumpkin Bread Recipe

What makes this easy pumpkin bread recipe so beloved? For starters, the incredible scent that wafts through your kitchen while it bakes can’t be beaten. It brings a sense of coziness that’s hard to resist. Plus, the simplicity of this recipe means you won’t have to stress over complicated techniques. With just ten minutes of prep time, you’ll have a scrumptious loaf in the oven, making it perfect for unexpected guests or a weekend treat. Whether you’re enjoying it as breakfast or a snack, the comforting flavor will bring a smile to your face, making it a favorite in any home.

Ingredients

• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon pumpkin spice or cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 (15 oz) can pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup packed brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

Whisk Dry Ingredients Together

Before you start mixing your ingredients, go ahead and preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s heating up, grease a 9×5 loaf pan and line it with parchment paper. The extra parchment overhang will make removal super easy later on! Now grab a medium bowl and whisk together the flour, pumpkin spice or cinnamon, baking soda, and salt. This initial step ensures the leavening agent gets evenly mixed throughout the flour—a small but significant detail for great results.

Combine Wet Ingredients

Moving on to the wet ingredients! In a large mixing bowl, combine your canned pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Use a whisk to blend them together until you have a smooth mixture. Now, it’s time to add in the eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Give everything a good whisk again! These ingredients work together to provide moisture and flavor, ensuring your pumpkin bread will be moist and delicious right from the start.

Blend the Mixtures

Now comes the fun part! Slowly add the dry flour mixture to your wet ingredients. Gently whisk them together until the batter is just combined. Remember to avoid overmixing because that’s the key to keeping your bread light and fluffy. Look for a smooth consistency without any lumps. This simple step makes sure the pumpkin bread has the perfect texture.

Bake the Pumpkin Bread

Next, pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Use a spatula to smooth the top for an even bake. Now, it’s time to pop it in the oven! Bake for 50 to 55 minutes. The key is to check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean. If you notice the top browning too quickly around the 30-minute mark, simply cover it loosely with aluminum foil, so it doesn’t burn.

Cool and Serve

Once your pumpkin bread is baked to perfection, let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This will help it set before you take it out. Gently lift the loaf out using the parchment paper overhang. There’s nothing quite like a warm slice of pumpkin bread! You can slice it while it’s warm for a delightful treat. Alternatively, let it cool completely before storing it in an airtight container.

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve made this scrumptious pumpkin bread, how can you enjoy it? First, you can savor it plain—it’s delicious all by itself! For a richer experience, slather on some butter. If you’re feeling a bit fancy, cream cheese adds a lovely tang, or you can sprinkle powdered sugar for a sweet touch. Pair it with a warm cup of coffee or tea, and you’re in for a cozy treat that’s perfect for any occasion.

Storage Tips

To keep your easy pumpkin bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. If you need to prolong its life, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and pop it in the freezer. It can stay good for up to 3 months this way. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just let it thaw at room temperature. Easy-peasy!

Variations

Feeling like getting a bit creative? This recipe is wonderfully flexible! You can toss in some chopped nuts for a nice crunch, mix in chocolate chips for a sweet surprise, or add dried fruit for some chewiness. Another option is to swap out the granulated sugar for a healthier alternative, like honey or maple syrup; just remember to adjust the liquid ingredients as needed for balance.

Tips for Success

To ensure your pumpkin bread turns out perfectly, here are some handy tips:
– Make sure your baking soda is fresh. This helps with optimal leavening.
– Don’t skip lining your pan with parchment paper. It makes removal a breeze!
– Keep an eye on your bread while it bakes; every oven has its quirks, and you want to avoid any surprises.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?
Yes, you sure can! Just be sure to cook and purée the fresh pumpkin to get the right consistency.

2. Can I make this pumpkin bread gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

3. How can I add toppings to my pumpkin bread?
Sprinkling nuts, seeds, or sugar on top before baking adds a delightful texture!

4. Can I double this recipe?
Yes, you can! Just ensure you have enough pans ready and keep an eye on the baking time.

5. What should I do if my pumpkin bread is too dense?
Make sure not to overmix the batter and check that your leavening agents are fresh for the best results.

This easy pumpkin bread recipe is not just a treat; it’s a nostalgic experience that fills your home with warmth and flavor. Simple yet satisfying, this delightful loaf is perfect for both casual snacking and festive gatherings, embodying the spirit of autumn in every slice. Whether you enjoy it fresh from the oven or as a cozy addition to your breakfast table, it offers a taste of comfort that resonates with everyone. Happy baking!

Print