Pumpkin Bread Recipe - A Delicious Fall Treat

Pumpkin bread is one of those seasonal treats that instantly brings the flavors of fall into your kitchen.

Whether you’re biting into it with a hot cup of coffee in the morning or enjoying a slice as a cozy dessert, pumpkin bread feels like autumn on a plate.

With its warm spices and rich, moist texture, this baked good has become a staple in many households during the colder months.

What makes pumpkin bread so special is its ability to combine the earthy sweetness of pumpkin with the comforting flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.

It’s also incredibly versatile! You can keep it simple or jazz it up with mix-ins like walnuts, chocolate chips, or even a cream cheese swirl. I’ve baked pumpkin bread many times, and I can confidently say it’s an absolute crowd-pleaser every time.

The Origins of Pumpkin Bread

Pumpkin bread has deep roots in American cuisine, especially tied to the fall harvest and Thanksgiving traditions. Pumpkins, native to North America, have long been a key ingredient in a variety of dishes, from pies to soups.

In colonial times, pumpkins were often used in baking, as they were abundant and easy to preserve during the colder months. Over time, pumpkin evolved into a beloved baking ingredient, and recipes like pumpkin bread became a tradition.

My Favorite Pumpkin Bread Recipe

After making pumpkin bread countless times, I’ve perfected a recipe that strikes the perfect balance between moisture and sweetness. It’s easy to whip up, and the smell alone will have everyone asking when it’s ready!

Ingredients:

• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
• ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• ¼ cup milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Optional: ½ cup chopped walnuts or chocolate chips

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. Whisk the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, ginger, and salt.
3. Mix the wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, oil, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Combine the wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix! If you’re adding walnuts or chocolate chips, fold them in at this point.
5. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Cool and enjoy: Let the pumpkin bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!

Tips for Making the Best Pumpkin Bread

• Use real pumpkin puree: Canned pumpkin puree works great for this recipe, but if you’re feeling ambitious, you can roast and puree your own pumpkin for an even fresher flavor.
• Don’t overmix: To keep your bread moist and tender, mix just until the ingredients are combined.
• Add-ins are fun: Feel free to experiment with different mix-ins like pecans, cranberries, or even a cream cheese swirl if you want a richer twist.

Pumpkin bread is not just a great way to enjoy the flavors of fall, but it also makes for a perfect homemade gift or a tasty snack any time of the day.

I love how easy it is to make and how versatile it can be. Plus, your house will smell like fall while it bakes—a win-win in my book!

Enjoy your homemade pumpkin bread!