This pumpkin bread is a delightful treat, perfect for fall or any time you crave a sweet, spiced loaf. Made with fresh pumpkin puree, warm spices, and a touch of sweetness, it’s a simple recipe that yields a moist and flavorful bread.
The recipe is designed for an 8×8 pan, making it easy to bake and share. You can enjoy it plain or enhance it with nuts or chocolate chips for added texture.
Creating the Perfect Pumpkin Bread
There’s something special about baking pumpkin bread, especially when the air turns crisp and the leaves start to fall. This delightful treat combines the rich flavors of pumpkin and warm spices, making it a favorite during the autumn months.
Using an 8×8 pan, this recipe is straightforward and yields a beautifully moist loaf. The golden-brown crust, slightly domed top, and the inviting aroma that fills the kitchen are just a few reasons to try this recipe.
Ingredients That Shine
The key to a successful pumpkin bread lies in the quality of its ingredients. Fresh pumpkin puree is essential, providing moisture and a natural sweetness that enhances the overall flavor.
Alongside the pumpkin, a blend of spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger brings warmth and depth to the bread. Whether you choose to add walnuts or chocolate chips, these optional ingredients can add delightful texture and flavor.
Mixing It Up
Preparation is quick and easy. Start by mixing the wet ingredients in one bowl, ensuring they are well combined. This includes the pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, sugar, eggs, and a splash of vanilla extract for added richness.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients. This step is crucial for evenly distributing the baking soda, baking powder, and spices throughout the batter. Combining the wet and dry mixtures should be done gently to avoid overmixing, which can lead to a denser loaf.
Baking to Perfection
Once the batter is ready, pour it into the greased 8×8 pan. Smoothing the top ensures an even rise during baking. The oven should be preheated to 350°F (175°C), allowing the bread to bake for about 40-45 minutes.
To check for doneness, a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean. This is a reliable method to ensure your pumpkin bread is perfectly baked and ready to be enjoyed.
Cooling and Serving
After baking, allow the pumpkin bread to cool in the pan for about ten minutes. This resting period helps it to set and makes transferring it to a wire rack easier.
Once cooled, slice the bread to reveal its moist interior. A light sprinkle of cinnamon on top adds a finishing touch, enhancing the visual appeal and flavor. Serve it warm or at room temperature, and enjoy it plain or with a spread of butter.
Creating a Cozy Atmosphere
Pairing this pumpkin bread with a cozy kitchen setting elevates the experience. Decorate your space with small pumpkins and fall leaves to embrace the season fully.
The warm colors and inviting scents will create a delightful atmosphere, perfect for sharing this delicious treat with family and friends. Whether enjoyed with a cup of coffee or tea, this pumpkin bread is sure to bring comfort and joy to any autumn gathering.
Easy Pumpkin Bread for 8×8 Pan
This pumpkin bread features a rich blend of pumpkin, cinnamon, and nutmeg, baked to perfection in an 8×8 pan. The recipe takes about 60 minutes from start to finish and serves approximately 9 slices.
Ingredients
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease the 8×8 pan.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until well blended.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
- Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. If using, fold in the walnuts or chocolate chips.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Allow the pumpkin bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Servings: 9 slices
- Calories: 180kcal
- Fat: 8g
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 26g