Delicious Pumpkin Bread Recipe 🎃🍞
This moist and flavorful pumpkin bread is the perfect autumn treat! With warm spices and an optional crunch from walnuts, it’s great for breakfast, snacking, or even as a dessert.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- ¼ cup water
- ½ cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
-
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal. -
Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Set aside. -
Cream Sugars and Oil:
In a large bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil. Beat until well mixed and smooth. -
Add Eggs and Pumpkin:
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the pumpkin puree until everything is thoroughly combined. -
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the water. Start and finish with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix. Fold in the chopped walnuts, if using. -
Bake the Bread:
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. -
Cool:
Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Nutritional Info & Timing:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60-70 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Servings: 10-12 slices
FAQs and Tips for Pumpkin Bread Recipe
FAQs:
- Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?
- Yes, you can substitute fresh pumpkin puree for canned. Simply roast or steam the pumpkin and mash it until smooth. Just make sure to drain any excess liquid so the consistency remains thick like canned puree.
- How do I know when my pumpkin bread is fully baked?
- The best way to check is to insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, the bread is done. Be sure not to underbake, as this can result in a dense center.
- Can I freeze pumpkin bread?
- Absolutely! Pumpkin bread freezes well. Allow the bread to cool completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then store it in a freezer-safe bag. It will keep for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm slices in the microwave.
- What can I substitute for vegetable oil?
- You can substitute an equal amount of melted butter, coconut oil, or applesauce (for a healthier option). Each substitution will slightly change the texture and flavor.
- How do I store pumpkin bread?
- Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. Make sure it’s fully cooled before storing to avoid condensation.
- Can I add other mix-ins like chocolate chips?
- Yes! Feel free to add chocolate chips, raisins, or dried cranberries for extra flavor and texture. Simply fold them into the batter at the end, similar to how you would with the walnuts.
Tips:
- Don’t Overmix the Batter:
- Overmixing can lead to dense, tough bread. Mix until the dry ingredients are just combined with the wet ingredients for a tender and fluffy loaf.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients:
- Ensure your eggs are at room temperature before mixing. This helps the ingredients incorporate better and promotes even baking.
- Customize Your Spices:
- Feel free to adjust the spices to your taste. You can increase the cinnamon or add a pinch of ground ginger for extra warmth.
- Prevent Burning:
- If the top of your bread is browning too quickly in the oven, loosely cover it with aluminum foil halfway through baking.
- Let It Cool Before Slicing:
- Allow your pumpkin bread to cool completely before slicing. Cutting into it while it’s still warm can cause it to crumble or become too moist.
- Double the Recipe for Gifting:
- This recipe is perfect for making extra loaves to gift during the holiday season. Wrap them up in festive packaging for a homemade touch.
By following these FAQs and tips, you’ll achieve perfect pumpkin bread every time!
Enjoy this spiced pumpkin bread as a cozy fall treat, perfect for any occasion! 🍂