Pumpkin Bread

As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, there’s nothing more comforting than enjoying a warm slice of homemade pumpkin bread. This delicious autumn treat is not only packed with nutrients but also filled with mouthwatering flavors and aroma.

This easy pumpkin bread recipe is the perfect way to celebrate the fall season. Whether you are a seasoned baker or just starting in the kitchen, you will find this recipe easy to follow with its straightforward steps and simple ingredients. Its moist, tender crumb paired with warm spices and just the right amount of sweetness make it a hit with everyone who tries it.

Beyond being enjoyed as a breakfast treat or an afternoon snack with a hot beverage, this pumpkin bread can also be a delightful addition to your holiday table, shared with friends and family during festive gatherings. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into this delightful pumpkin bread recipe, sure to become a seasonal favorite.

Ingredients

To make a delicious pumpkin bread, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 3/4 cups (220g) all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves
• 1 1/2 cups (300g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs
• 1/3 cup (80ml) buttermilk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup (225g) canned pumpkin puree

Don’t worry if you don’t have all of these ingredients in your pantry right now; many of them can be substituted with common household items. For example, if you don’t have buttermilk, you can use regular milk with a splash of lemon juice or vinegar to achieve the same effect. Keep in mind that substituting ingredients may impact the final result, and it’s recommended to follow the original recipe whenever possible.

Before you start mixing the ingredients, make sure that you have all of them measured accurately. Following the precise measurements is essential to achieving the best taste and texture for your pumpkin bread.

Equipment Needed

Preparing pumpkin bread requires some essential kitchen equipment to ensure a smooth and efficient baking process. The following items are necessary for this recipe:

• 9×5-inch loaf pan
• Mixing bowls (one large, one medium)
• Whisk
• Wooden spoon or rubber spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cooling rack

Having the right equipment on hand not only streamlines the preparation process but also contributes to achieving the desired texture and consistency of the pumpkin bread.

It’s recommended to gather all the equipment before starting the recipe to ensure a seamless workflow. This simple step will help reduce the chances of errors when following the steps of the pumpkin bread recipe.

Preparation

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×5-inch loaf pan. Set this aside for later use.

In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the following dry ingredients:

• 1 and 3/4 cups (220g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice

In a separate large bowl, mix together the wet ingredients:

• 1 cup (225g) canned pumpkin puree
• 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup (100g) packed brown sugar
• 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup (60ml) milk

Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, being careful not to overmix. Stir in any optional ingredients, such as:

• 1 cup (125g) chopped nuts (e.g., walnuts or pecans)
• 1/2 cup (85g) chocolate chips or raisins

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. If desired, sprinkle additional chopped nuts or chocolate chips on top for added texture and flavor. Bake for approximately 60-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean. Allow the pumpkin bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Baking Instructions

Before starting the baking process, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the following dry ingredients:

• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger

Whisk the dry ingredients together and set the bowl aside. In a separate mixing bowl, prepare the wet ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup canned pumpkin puree (not pie filling)
• 1/3 cup water

Combine wet ingredients thoroughly, ensuring the sugar is well-dissolved. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients and mix until just blended, avoiding overmixing.

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake in the preheated oven for 60 to 70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the pumpkin bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Variations

If you would like to experiment with different flavors and textures in your pumpkin bread, consider these variations:

• Add nuts: Mix in 1/2 to 1 cup of your favorite nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, for added crunch.
• Chocolate chips: Stir in 1/2 to 1 cup of chocolate chips to bring some sweetness and contrast to the pumpkin flavor.
• Spices: Experiment with different spice combinations, such as adding cardamom or ginger for a unique twist.

Additionally, you can create a delicious topping for your pumpkin bread with these ideas:

For those with dietary restrictions, there are several alternatives:

• Gluten-free: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring that you follow the required proportions according to the specific blend.
• Dairy-free: Substitute dairy products like milk and butter with plant-based options such as almond milk or vegan butter.

Storage and Freezing Tips

Proper storage is essential for maintaining the freshness and taste of your homemade pumpkin bread. Follow these simple tips to ensure your bread stays delicious for days.

Room Temperature Storage:

• Allow the pumpkin bread to cool completely before storing to prevent moisture from building up.
• Wrap the bread in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to protect it from air exposure.
• Store the wrapped bread in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag at room temperature for up to 3-4 days.

Refrigerator Storage:

• For extended freshness, store the wrapped pumpkin bread in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
• Keep the bread away from moisture-rich and aromatic foods to avoid flavor contamination.

Freezing Tips:

• For long-term storage, wrap the cooled pumpkin bread tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, or use an airtight freezer-safe container.
• Label the container with the date and contents to avoid confusion later on.
• Store the bread in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• To thaw, simply leave the bread at room temperature for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator.

Nutritional Information

Pumpkin bread is not only delicious but also offers some nutritional benefits. One serving of this bread provides an array of vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber, thanks to the pumpkin puree, whole-wheat flour, and other ingredients.

Here is the nutritional breakdown for one serving of pumpkin bread:

Moreover, pumpkin is an excellent source of vitamin A, providing more than 100% of the daily recommended intake in a single serving. It also contains a good amount of vitamin C, potassium, and iron.

Keep in mind that nutritional values may vary slightly based on the specific ingredients and brand of pumpkin puree you use, so always review the label on your ingredients to get the most accurate information.

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Cassie Marshall

Cassie brings decades of experience to the Kitchen Community. She is a noted chef and avid gardener. Her new book "Healthy Eating Through the Garden" will be released shortly. When not writing or speaking about food and gardens Cassie can be found puttering around farmer's markets and greenhouses looking for the next great idea.

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