This moist and flavorful Pumpkin Spice Bread is perfect for fall, filled with the rich taste of pumpkin, warm spices, and a hint of sweetness. Using a combination of dark brown sugar, homemade pumpkin spice, and your choice of bourbon or vanilla, this recipe creates two delicious loaves that are perfect for breakfast, snacking, or gifting during the holiday season. The bread only gets better as it sits, making it an ideal make-ahead treat!
Preparation Time:
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 60-65 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree (Libby’s recommended)
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 cup neutral oil (such as extra virgin olive oil)
- 1 tablespoon bourbon or vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup dark brown sugar, packed
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon fine salt
- 2 tablespoons pumpkin spice (homemade or store-bought)
- 3 tablespoons sugar (divided)
- Oil or baking spray for preparing pans
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease two 9×5-inch loaf pans with oil or baking spray. Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of sugar into each prepared pan, coating the bottom evenly.
- Mix the Wet Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, eggs, oil, bourbon (or vanilla), and both sugars until well combined and smooth.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, whisk the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and pumpkin spice until thoroughly combined.
- Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, whisking as you go. Once the ingredients are mostly incorporated, stir the batter for about 50 strokes to ensure it’s well mixed but not overworked.
- Pour the Batter into the Pans:
- Evenly divide the batter between the two prepared loaf pans. Smooth the tops and sprinkle each loaf with the remaining 1 tablespoon of sugar.
- Bake the Bread:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 60-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaves comes out clean.
- Once baked, remove the loaves from the oven and carefully turn them onto a cooling rack.
- Cool and Serve:
- Allow the loaves to cool completely before slicing. For the best flavor, let the bread sit overnight—it actually tastes better the next day!
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or cream cheese for a decadent treat.
- Pair with a cup of coffee or spiced tea for a cozy fall breakfast.
- Add a drizzle of maple syrup or honey for added sweetness.
- Toast slices lightly and spread with butter for a simple snack.
- Serve alongside a fall-inspired charcuterie board with cheeses, fruits, and nuts.
Cooking Tips:
- Make sure the eggs are at room temperature to help them blend more smoothly with the other ingredients.
- If you want to reduce the sweetness, you can omit the sugar sprinkle on top or reduce the amount of brown sugar.
- For added texture, fold in nuts like walnuts or pecans, or even chocolate chips into the batter before baking.
- Check for doneness around the 60-minute mark to avoid overbaking. If the top is browning too quickly, cover loosely with foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.
- Store the bread in an airtight container to keep it moist and fresh for up to 5 days.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Rich in beta-carotene from the pumpkin puree, supporting eye health and immune function.
- High in fiber from the pumpkin and flour, aiding digestion.
- Healthy fats from the olive oil, promoting heart health.
- Low in cholesterol since this recipe uses oil instead of butter.
- Contains antioxidants from the pumpkin and spices, providing anti-inflammatory benefits.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian-friendly
- Dairy-free
- Rich in fiber
- Low in saturated fats
- Can be made gluten-free by substituting with gluten-free flour blend
Nutritional Facts (per slice, based on 12 slices per loaf):
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 16g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 28g
Storage:
- Store the pumpkin spice bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, wrap the loaves tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- You can freeze the bread for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- It’s simple to make, requiring only basic ingredients and minimal prep time.
- The combination of warm spices and pumpkin makes it the perfect fall treat.
- It yields two loaves, making it great for sharing or freezing for later.
- The sugar on top creates a delightful, crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the soft, moist bread.
- It’s a versatile recipe that can easily be customized with add-ins like nuts, raisins, or chocolate chips.
Conclusion:
This Classic Pumpkin Spice Bread is a delicious and comforting recipe that celebrates the warm, cozy flavors of fall. With its moist texture, sweet-spicy aroma, and crunchy sugar topping, it’s the perfect treat for breakfast, snack time, or dessert. Whether you enjoy it fresh from the oven or the next day, this pumpkin bread is sure to become a seasonal favorite.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes, you can use 15 oz of homemade pumpkin puree. Just make sure it’s well-drained to avoid excess moisture. - How can I make this bread healthier?
You can substitute part of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour and reduce the amount of sugar by 1/2 cup for a healthier version. - Can I make this bread gluten-free?
Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour substitute in place of the all-purpose flour. - What can I add to the bread for extra texture?
Chopped nuts, raisins, or chocolate chips can be folded into the batter before baking for extra texture and flavor. - How do I store the bread to keep it moist?
Store the bread in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to maintain its moisture. It can also be frozen for longer storage.