Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I pulled the warm loaf from the oven, the rich, buttery aroma filled my kitchen, instantly transporting me to cozy autumn days. This Pumpkin Bread is my go-to recipe when I want to evoke that inviting, homestyle feeling—it’s tender, moist, and infused with the warm spices that define fall. Not only is this bread a breeze to whip up, but it also swoops in to save the day when I’ve got leftover pumpkin puree staring me down. Kid-approved and perfect for any gathering, every bite of this delightful treat tastes like a hug in food form. So, why not let your oven do the work while you savor the pumpkin-filled magic at home? What’s your favorite way to enjoy a slice? Why Is This Pumpkin Bread Irresistible? Moist, Comforting Texture: Each slice of this delicious pumpkin bread is incredibly moist, providing a melt-in-your-mouth experience that keeps you coming back for more. Kid-Approved Delight: With its sweet, warm flavors, it’s a surefire hit with children and adults alike, making it a perfect treat for family gatherings or cozy evenings at home. So Quick to Make: Whipping up this delightful bread takes just a little over an hour, making it an ideal last-minute addition to any meal or celebration. Perfect for Leftovers: Got leftover pumpkin from the holidays? Use it up in this luscious recipe, where every bite celebrates fall. Versatile Pairing: Enjoy it as a sweet breakfast with coffee or as a comforting dessert with a scoop of ice cream—your choice! Enhanced Flavor Options: Feel free to elevate your bread with optional add-ins like nuts, chocolate chips, or a crunchy streusel topping for that extra flair, turning simple pumpkin bread into something exceptional! Bring in this comforting recipe alongside other favorites like Honey Butter Cornbread or Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks for an unforgettable experience! Pumpkin Bread Ingredients • Make the best homemade pumpkin bread with these pantry staples! For the Batter All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; using whole wheat flour can give a nuttier flavor. Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and moisture; brown sugar can deepen the flavor. Pumpkin Puree – The star of the show; ensure it’s pure pumpkin puree, not pie filling. Unsalted Butter – Contributes rich, buttery goodness; can substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free option. Warm Milk – Helps achieve optimal moisture; almond milk is a great lactose-free alternative. Large Eggs – Binds the ingredients together and adds extra moisture; no egg substitutes recommended. Ground Cinnamon – Infuses warmth and spice; consider adding nutmeg for a delightful twist. Vanilla Extract – Enhances overall flavor; you can omit for a vanilla-free version. Baking Powder & Baking Soda – Essential leavening agents; make sure they’re fresh for the best rise. Nutmeg – Complements pumpkin’s flavor; it’s optional but highly recommended. Kosher Salt – Balances out the sweetness; you can use table salt at half the amount. Feel free to let your creativity shine in the kitchen and invite the wonderful flavors of this pumpkin bread into your home! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin Bread Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, take a loaf or round cake pan, and generously grease and flour it. This helps prevent the pumpkin bread from sticking, ensuring a smooth removal after baking. Look for an even layer of flour on the greased surface for ultimate release. Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients In a medium mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and kosher salt. Use a whisk to blend these ingredients well, ensuring there are no lumps—this will create a lighter texture for your pumpkin bread. Once combined, set the bowl aside, allowing the dry ingredients to mingle and develop their flavors. Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar In a large mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer, beating on medium speed for about 2 minutes until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This aeration is crucial for a moist texture in your pumpkin bread. You’ll know it’s ready when it looks pale and silky, creating a perfect base for the next steps. Step 4: Incorporate Eggs and Flavor Add the large eggs one at a time to the creamed butter and sugar, mixing thoroughly after each addition until fully blended. Then, pour in the pumpkin puree and vanilla extract, and continue mixing until the batter is smooth. This step ensures the flavors meld together beautifully, giving your pumpkin bread its signature richness. Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet batter, mixing gently until just combined. Be cautious not to over-mix this step, as it can lead to a denser pumpkin bread. Look for a few flour streaks remaining, indicating that the ingredients are blended just enough to maintain a light texture. Step 6: Blend in Warm Milk Pour in the warm milk and fold it into the batter using a spatula or wooden spoon. Mix until you achieve a smooth, uniform batter with a slightly thick consistency. This addition assures your pumpkin bread stays delightfully moist throughout the baking process, ready to absorb all those warm, cozy spices. Step 7: Pour and Bake Once your batter is well-blended, pour it into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes if using a cake pan or 50-55 minutes for a loaf pan. Your pumpkin bread is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean, with a few moist crumbs sticking to it. Step 8: Cool and Serve After baking, allow the pumpkin bread to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. Once cooled slightly, gently remove it from the pan and transfer it to a wire rack. Let it cool completely before slicing; this resting period helps the flavors deepen and the texture improve, making each slice irresistibly soft and buttery. Make Ahead Options These pumpkin bread delights are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can mix the dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, baking soda, spices, and salt) up to 3 days in advance and store them in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can prepare the batter and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking, ensuring the flavors meld beautifully. When you’re ready to bake, simply pour the chilled batter into the prepared pan and follow the baking instructions as usual, adding a few extra minutes if needed. This way, you’ll have a homemade pumpkin bread ready to enjoy with minimal effort, making busy weeknights a little sweeter! Expert Tips for Moist Pumpkin Bread Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs and milk are at room temperature for better emulsion and a more tender crumb in your pumpkin bread. Avoid Over-Mixing: Mix the batter until just combined to preserve a light, airy texture. Over-mixing can lead to a dense loaf, which we want to avoid! Use Fresh Leavening Agents: Baking powder and baking soda should be fresh for optimal rise; expired agents can flatten your lovely bread. Testing for Doneness: A few crumbs on your toothpick test are okay; the bread will continue to cook after removing it from the oven. Flavor Development: Allow the pumpkin bread to rest before slicing to enhance moisture distribution and overall flavor. Enjoy the anticipation! How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Bread Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days to maintain freshness and moisture. Fridge: For extended freshness, refrigerate pumpkin bread for up to a week. Ensure it’s wrapped tightly to prevent drying out. Freezer: To keep your pumpkin bread longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying. Reheating: Reheat slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or warm them in a toaster oven for a few minutes until heated through, retaining that delicious, moist texture. What to Serve with Best Moist Pumpkin Bread As the warmth of your freshly baked pumpkin bread wafts through your home, it’s the perfect time to think about what delightful sides or accompaniments to pair with this scrumptious treat. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These fluffy potatoes provide a rich, buttery contrast to the sweet spices in your pumpkin bread, creating a harmonious balance. Spiced Apple Cider: A warm cup of spiced apple cider echoes the fall flavors of your pumpkin bread and adds a comforting touch to your meal. Rich Butter Pecan Ice Cream: The creamy, nutty profile of this ice cream creates a luxurious dessert experience when served alongside a slice of pumpkin bread. Cinnamon Sugar-Glazed Pecans: Adding crunchy cinnamon pecans not only enhances the texture but also brings out the warm spice notes from the bread. Maple Glaze: Drizzling a sweet maple glaze over individual slices delivers an extra layer of sweetness that complements the caramel notes of the pumpkin. Fresh Whipped Cream: Lightly sweetened whipped cream atop a slice makes for an elegant, airy contrast that showcases the richness of your pumpkin bread. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The nuttiness and slight bitterness of the sprouts provide a beautiful counterpoint to the sweetness of the pumpkin, making every bite more complex. Herbal Tea: A fragrant cup of herbal tea not only warms the soul but also mirrors the comforting blend of spices in your pumpkin bread, perfect for a cozy evening. Pumpkin Bread Variations & Substitutions Ready to make this pumpkin bread uniquely yours? Let’s explore some delightful twists to enhance flavor, texture, and dietary preferences! Dairy-Free: Substitute unsalted butter with coconut oil or plant-based butter for a dairy-free version that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Whole Wheat: For a nuttier taste and added health benefits, swap half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. Sweetness Boost: Try using brown sugar instead of granulated sugar for a richer, molasses-like sweetness that complements pumpkin beautifully. Nutty Crunch: Stir in chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture and a delightful crunch with each slice. Chocolate Lovers: Mix in chocolate chips (dark or semi-sweet) for a deliciously decadent treat that pairs well with the pumpkin flavor. Spice it Up: Add a teaspoon of ground ginger or allspice to amplify the warm, cozy flavors and bring an exciting twist to your bread. Streusel Topping: Top with a crumbly streusel made from flour, butter, and sugar, adding a sweet and crunchy finish that’s irresistibly inviting. Pumpkin Muffins: Transform the recipe into pumpkin muffins instead of bread by adjusting the baking time to 20-25 minutes—perfect for quick breakfast on the go! For a round, flavorful experience, consider pairing your pumpkin bread with Savory Chicken Flatbread or enjoy it alongside a warm slice of Honey Butter Cornbread. Every variation can spark a new family favorite! Pumpkin Bread Recipe FAQs How do I select the best pumpkin puree for baking? Absolutely! When choosing pumpkin puree, opt for plain, canned pumpkin puree instead of pumpkin pie filling. The latter contains added sugars and spices, which can alter the flavor of your pumpkin bread. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also use homemade puree by roasting and blending fresh pumpkins, ensuring it’s pure without any additives. What is the best way to store leftover pumpkin bread? Very simple! Store your pumpkin bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. If you want to extend its freshness, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for up to a week. Just be sure to check it for any moisture or mold before enjoying. Can I freeze pumpkin bread, and how do I do it? Absolutely! To freeze your pumpkin bread, let it cool completely after baking. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil, which prevents freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the bread in the fridge overnight. You can also pop slices in the microwave for a quick warm-up! Why does my pumpkin bread turn out dense or heavy? The more the merrier with mixing! If your batter is over-mixed, this can lead to dense pumpkin bread. Ensure you combine the dry and wet ingredients just until no streaks of flour remain. Also, check to make sure your leavening agents (baking powder and baking soda) are fresh, as expired agents can prevent proper rising. Are there any dietary considerations for this pumpkin bread recipe? Definitely! This pumpkin bread recipe can be easily adapted for dietary needs. For a dairy-free version, substitute unsalted butter with coconut oil or a plant-based butter, and use almond or oat milk. There are no egg substitutes recommended, so if you need an egg-free option, consider using a flaxseed meal replacement (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg). Always check labels to ensure your ingredients are free from allergens. Can I add different toppings or mix-ins to my pumpkin bread? I often recommend it! You can customize your pumpkin bread by adding a streusel topping for added sweetness and crunch or folding in nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits for extra flavor and texture. Just make sure to keep the overall batter ratio balanced so that it remains wonderfully moist. Moist Pumpkin Bread Recipe for Cozy Fall Days This Moist Pumpkin Bread is a deliciously tender treat infused with warm spices, perfect for cozy fall days. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 50 minutes minsCooling Time 15 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 20 minutes mins Servings: 10 slicesCourse: BreakfastCuisine: AmericanCalories: 180 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Batter2 cups All-Purpose Flour Can substitute with whole wheat flour.1 cup Granulated Sugar Brown sugar can deepen the flavor.1 cup Pumpkin Puree Use pure pumpkin puree, not pie filling.1/2 cup Unsalted Butter Can substitute with coconut oil for dairy-free option.1/2 cup Warm Milk Almond milk is a lactose-free alternative.2 large Eggs No egg substitutes recommended.1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon Consider adding nutmeg for a delightful twist.1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract Can omit for a vanilla-free version.1 teaspoon Baking Powder Make sure it's fresh for the best rise.1 teaspoon Baking Soda Make sure it's fresh for the best rise.1/4 teaspoon Nutmeg Optional but highly recommended.1/2 teaspoon Kosher Salt Can use table salt at half the amount. Equipment Loaf panMixing bowlsSpatulaWhiskElectric Mixer Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Pumpkin BreadPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour your loaf or round cake pan.In a medium bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Whisk until well blended.In a large bowl, cream together butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer for about 2 minutes until light and fluffy.Add eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly. Then add pumpkin puree and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.Gradually mix dry ingredients into wet batter until just combined, avoiding over-mixing.Fold in warm milk until batter is smooth and slightly thick.Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 45-50 minutes for a cake pan or 50-55 minutes for a loaf pan.Cool in the pan for about 15 minutes then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 180kcalCarbohydrates: 24gProtein: 3gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 500IUCalcium: 20mgIron: 1mg NotesFor best results, use room temperature ingredients and avoid over-mixing. Fresh baking powder and soda ensure optimal rise. Allow the bread to rest before slicing for improved texture and flavor. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
