Classic Pumpkin Bread Recipe

Pumpkin Bread is a soft, moist, and comforting loaf filled with warm pumpkin spice flavor. Made with pumpkin puree, cinnamon, nutmeg, and simple baking ingredients, this homemade bread has a tender texture and a deliciously cozy taste. The pumpkin keeps the loaf moist while the warm spices add just the right amount of sweetness and flavor. It’s the kind of easy baked treat that makes the kitchen smell amazing while it’s in the oven.

This pumpkin bread is perfect for breakfast, brunch, an afternoon snack, or a simple fall dessert. Enjoy a slice on its own or spread it with butter, cream cheese, or a little honey for something extra special. You can also add chocolate chips, chopped walnuts, or pecans for more texture and flavor. It’s easy to make, easy to slice, and perfect to enjoy with a warm cup of coffee or tea.

Pumpkin Bread Ingredients

• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup pumpkin puree
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Optional additions:

• 1/2 cup chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
• A little extra cinnamon for the top

How to Make Pumpkin Bread

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Loaf Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or cooking spray. For easier removal, you can also line the pan with parchment paper, leaving a little extra paper over the sides.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, vegetable oil, milk, and vanilla extract. Keep mixing until everything is smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, mix the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and salt. Slowly add the dry mixture to the pumpkin mixture. Stir gently with a spatula just until the flour disappears. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the bread less soft.

Step 4: Fill and Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread the top evenly. If you like, sprinkle chocolate chips or chopped nuts over the top. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Remove the Pumpkin Bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10–15 minutes. Carefully transfer it to a wire rack and allow it to cool further before slicing. Serve it plain, with butter, cream cheese, or your favorite topping.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This Pumpkin Bread uses simple ingredients and easy steps, making it perfect for beginners.
• Soft and Moist: Pumpkin puree helps give the bread a soft, tender, and moist texture in every slice.
• Full of Fall Flavor: Cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves give the loaf a warm and cozy flavor.
• Great for Breakfast: A slice of Pumpkin Bread is a delicious way to start the morning with a cup of coffee, tea, or milk.

Tips and Shortcuts

• Use Canned Pumpkin: Canned pumpkin puree saves time and gives the bread a smooth texture. Just make sure it is plain pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling.
• Use One Bowl: To make cleanup faster, you can mix the wet ingredients first and then add the dry ingredients directly to the same bowl.
• Do Not Overmix: Stir the batter just until the ingredients are combined. Too much mixing can make the bread tough.
• Use Parchment Paper: Line the loaf pan with parchment paper to make removing the baked bread much easier.

What to Serve with Pumpkin Bread

This pumpkin bread is one of my favorite fall treats to bake for my family. I love serving a warm slice for breakfast with butter and a glass of fresh orange juice, while my husband usually enjoys his with a hot cup of coffee. The soft texture and warm pumpkin spice flavor make this homemade bread a cozy treat that everyone in my family loves.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh pumpkin for Pumpkin Bread ?

Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin. Cook it until soft, mash or blend it until smooth, and let extra liquid drain before using it.

Can I use canned pumpkin puree ?

Yes. Canned pumpkin puree is a great shortcut and works very well in this recipe.

Can I add chocolate chips ?

Yes! Chocolate chips are a delicious addition. You can mix them into the batter or sprinkle some over the top before baking.

Can I add chocolate chips ?

Yes! Chocolate chips are a delicious addition. You can mix them into the batter or sprinkle some over the top before baking.

How to Store Leftovers

Refrigerator Storage

Let the Pumpkin Bread cool completely, then wrap it well or place it in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for 5–7 days.

Freezer Storage

Wrap the loaf or individual slices tightly and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2–3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

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