Hi Bold Bakers! WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS RECIPE: This Pumpkin Bread is the best ever, boasting incredible moisture and delightful spices, well-loved by millions of Bold Bakers worldwide over the years—perfect for homely fall days and festive gatherings! Already have an account?
Incredibly Moist: Thanks to the perfect balance of pumpkin, oil, and milk, every slice is soft and tender. Warmly Spiced: Packed with cinnamon and nutmeg, it delivers the cozy flavors we all. Quick & Easy: With just 20 minutes of prep and no mixer needed, it’s perfect for busy days. Topped with Maple Glaze: The finishing touch is a sweet, buttery glaze that takes this bread to the next level!
If you’re craving more fall-inspired treats, be sure to check out these favorites! Indulge in the Apple Cider Donut Cake, which perfectly captures autumn’s essence with its spiced flavor. For a delightful twist, try the Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls , combining two beloved treats into one delicious loaf. Looking for something rich and creamy? The Caramel Apple Cheesecake is a must-try that beautifully blends seasonal flavors. And don’t miss the Pumpkin Spice Latte , a quick and easy drink that brings the beloved latte experience into a warm, cozy treat. Enjoy exploring these scrumptious recipes!
Bold Bakers Loved This!
“I made five loaves of the pumpkin bread to share with my neighbors! So moist and delicious! ” — Carol “I have made your pumpkin bread several times now and have done porch deliveries to my children and grandchildren. I have directed others to the recipe several times too. Everybody agrees that it is fantastic! Thanks for the recipe.” — Annie “Tastiest pumpkin bread! Best ever is a great name for it 🙂 its even better the next day! I didn’t make the frosting but instead went with a crumble topping. Superb!”– Wit1019 IMPORTANT NOTE: This recipe was improved and updated on 9/25/2024, to include explanations and substitutes of key ingredients, differences between pumpkin homemade pureé and canned pumpkin pureé, answers to the most frequently asked questions, and Pro Chef Tips.
Table of Contents
What is a Pumpkin Bread
Pumpkin Bread is a moist, sweet quick bread made with pumpkin puree and warm spices, perfect for fall baking. Just like our banana bread, it’s a quick bread recipe.
Flavorful: Infused with spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, giving it a cozy, aromatic taste. Moist Texture: The addition of pumpkin puree keeps the bread tender and rich. Versatile: Can be enjoyed plain, with nuts, or topped with glazes and spreads. Easy to Make: Typically requires simple ingredients and no mixer, making it a perfect choice for home bakers.
Tools You Need
9*5 inch loaf pan Measuring cups Measuring spoons Measuring jugs Mixing bowls Whisk Spatula
Key Ingredients
Pumpkin Bread
Eggs:
Provide moisture and richness to the bread, contributing to its tender texture. Sub: Use flax eggs as a vegan alternative.
Granulated Sugar:
Sweetens the bread and helps achieve a balanced flavor. Sub: Brown sugar can be used for a deeper, caramel-like sweetness.
Pumpkin Puree:
Adds moisture and a rich pumpkin flavor that defines the bread. It also provides healthy fiber. Sub: Canned pumpkin serves as a convenient alternative. Do not use pumpkin pie filling.
Vegetable Oil:
Contributes to the bread’s moistness and helps keep it tender. Sub: Melted coconut oil or applesauce can be used for a lighter option.
Whole Milk:
Enhances the richness of the bread, making it more flavorful. Sub: Any plant-based milk works well for a dairy-free version.
All-Purpose Flour:
Provides the structure needed for the bread to rise properly. Sub: Gluten-free flour blends can be used for a gluten-free option.
Salt:
Enhances the overall flavor profile by balancing the sweetness of the sugar. Sub: It is essential for bringing out the bread’s flavors.
Baking Soda:
Acts as a leavening agent, helping the bread rise and become light and fluffy. Sub: Baking powder can be used instead (adjust other ingredients accordingly).
Ground Cinnamon:
Adds warmth and spice, giving the bread its signature fall flavor. Sub: Pumpkin pie spice can be used for a more complex spice blend.
Ground Nutmeg:
Offers a nutty, aromatic flavor that complements the pumpkin. Sub: It can be omitted or replaced with allspice if desired.
Maple Glaze
Butter:
Adds richness and a creamy texture to the glaze. Sub: Vegan butter can be used for a dairy-free version.
Powdered Sugar:
Sweetens and thickens the glaze, creating a smooth finish. Sub: Check out my Powdered Sugar Recipe, make powdered coconut sugar for a less refined option, or make powdered monk fruit sweetener or powdered allulose sugar that has 0 calories!
Maple Syrup:
Provides a unique sweetness and enhances the glaze’s flavor. Sub: Agave syrup serves as a vegan alternative that works well.
How to Make the Best-Ever Pumpkin Bread
More Pumpkin Recipes for Holidays!
Pumpkin Olive Oil Cake Recipe How To Make Pumpkin Pie Homemade Pumpkin Spice Coffee Creamer Salted Pumpkin Caramels Pumpkin Cheesecake With Pecan Praline Sauce
And don’t forget to buy my Bigger Bolder Baking Cookbook!
What spices are typically used in pumpkin bread?
Common spices include cinnamon, nutmeg, and sometimes ginger or allspice. Or make my Homemade Pumpkin Pie Spice for the perfect flavor combination!
How can I make this easy pumpkin bread recipe more flavorful?
Experiment with spices such as pumpkin pie spice, mixed spice, cloves, ginger, nutmeg, cardamom, or cinnamon. Add citrus zest, or incorporate flavored extracts like vanilla extract. Add nuts such as toasted chopped pecans, almonds, or walnuts, or dried fruit such as raisins and cranberries. Add chocolate chips or streusel topping for extra flavor and texture.
Is pumpkin bread healthy?
It can be made healthier by using white whole wheat flour, reducing sugar, or adding nutritious ingredients like nuts or seeds. Check out my Healthy Pumpkin Bread that’s low in sugar and low in carbs!
Can I make pumpkin bread vegan?
Yes, you can substitute eggs with flax eggs and use plant-based milk and oil.
Can I make pumpkin bread gluten-free??
Yes, you can use a gluten-free flour blend or Easy Almond Baking Mix for all-purpose flour as a gluten-free option.
Why is my pumpkin bread dense?
Overmixing the batter or using too much flour can lead to a dense loaf.
Can I make mini pumpkin loaves?
Yes, you can use mini loaf pans; adjust the baking time to about 25-30 minutes.
What’s the difference between pumpkin bread and pumpkin cake?
Pumpkin bread is denser and often less sweet than pumpkin cake, which is typically lighter and frosted. Full (and printable) recipe below! IMPORTANT NOTE: This recipe was improved and updated on 9/25/2024, to include explanations and substitutes of key ingredients, differences between pumpkin homemade pureé and canned pumpkin pureé, answers to the most frequently asked questions, and Pro Chef Tips.
