This pumpkin bread is a delightful treat, perfect for fall or any time of the year. Made with pureed pumpkin, warm spices, and a touch of sweetness, it delivers a moist and flavorful loaf that is sure to please.
The recipe yields two loaves, making it ideal for sharing or freezing for later enjoyment. It’s simple to prepare and requires basic baking skills.
Creating the Perfect Pumpkin Bread
When the leaves start to turn and the air becomes crisp, nothing says fall quite like the aroma of freshly baked pumpkin bread. This delightful treat is not only comforting but also incredibly simple to make.
The combination of pureed pumpkin and warm spices creates a moist loaf that is perfect for sharing with family and friends. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up two loaves that are sure to impress.
Ingredients That Make a Difference
The key to a successful pumpkin bread lies in the quality of your ingredients. Using fresh, canned pumpkin puree ensures a rich flavor, while spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves add warmth and depth.
Granulated and brown sugars contribute to the sweetness and moisture, while a blend of all-purpose flour, baking soda, and baking powder provides the perfect rise. Optional additions like nuts or chocolate chips can enhance the texture and flavor, making each slice unique.
Step-by-Step Baking Process
To start, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your loaf pans by greasing and flouring them. This ensures that your bread will come out easily once baked.
Mix the dry ingredients in one bowl and the wet ingredients in another. Combining them gradually helps maintain the bread’s light texture. Pour the batter into the prepared pans and bake until golden brown, typically around 55-65 minutes.
Cooling and Serving Suggestions
Once baked, allow the loaves to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. This resting period helps the bread set, making it easier to slice without crumbling.
Transfer the loaves to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm, perhaps with a pat of butter or a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra touch of flavor. This pumpkin bread pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee, making it a perfect afternoon treat.
Storing and Sharing Your Pumpkin Bread
If you find yourself with extra loaves, pumpkin bread freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in an airtight container. It can be enjoyed later, allowing you to savor the flavors of fall any time of the year.
Sharing is a wonderful way to spread joy, so consider gifting a loaf to friends or neighbors. The warm, inviting aroma will surely bring smiles and create a sense of community.
Embracing the Fall Atmosphere
As you bake your pumpkin bread, take a moment to enjoy the season. Surround yourself with autumn decorations like colorful leaves and small pumpkins to enhance the cozy atmosphere.
Whether enjoyed at home or shared with others, this pumpkin bread is a celebration of fall flavors and warmth. It’s a delightful way to embrace the season and create lasting memories.
Easy Pumpkin Bread Recipe
This pumpkin bread features a rich pumpkin flavor complemented by cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. The recipe takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes from start to finish and serves 16 slices.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar packed
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups canned pumpkin puree
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped nuts or chocolate chips optional
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9×5-inch loaf pans.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil until well combined. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the pumpkin puree and vanilla extract.
- Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. If desired, fold in the chopped nuts or chocolate chips.
- Pour Batter: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared loaf pans.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Allow the loaves to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Servings: 16 slices
- Calories: 200kcal
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 28g