There’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of freshly baked pumpkin bread filling your kitchen. It signals the arrival of cooler weather, warm sweaters, and the cozy charm of autumn. This pumpkin bread recipe is a classic—moist, tender, and deeply flavorful thanks to a perfect blend of spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
Whether you’re baking for a lazy Sunday breakfast, packing a sweet slice in a lunchbox, or preparing for a fall gathering, this loaf never disappoints. It’s easy to make, keeps well, and delivers all the seasonal satisfaction you could want in a single bite.
Let’s dive into this tried-and-true pumpkin bread recipe, complete with tips and variations to help you make it just the way you like.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses pantry staples and a few fall-flavored additions to create a soft, warmly spiced loaf. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 and 2/3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup canned pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 and 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional but recommended for texture)
- 1/2 cup raisins (optional, adds subtle sweetness and chew)
These ingredients create a well-balanced loaf with a moist crumb, rich spice, and a touch of crunch.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Loaf Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan to prevent sticking. You can also line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.
Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together:
- All-purpose flour
- Baking soda
- Baking powder
- Salt
- Ground cinnamon
- Ground nutmeg
- Ground cloves
This dry blend ensures even distribution of leavening and spices throughout the loaf.
Blend the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and sugar until combined and slightly fluffy. Then add the canned pumpkin and oil. Stir well until the mixture becomes smooth and glossy.
Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing just until no dry streaks remain. Avoid overmixing—this helps keep the bread tender.
Add Water and Mix-Ins
Stir in the water to loosen the batter slightly. Then gently fold in the chopped walnuts and raisins (if using). These additions create contrast in texture and pockets of sweet, chewy bites.
Pour and Bake
Pour the batter evenly into your prepared loaf pan. Smooth the top with a spatula if needed.
Bake for 60–70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be golden and may crack slightly—this is perfectly normal for pumpkin bread.
Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the loaf from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
This rest time is essential—it allows the flavors to develop and prevents the loaf from falling apart when cut.
Tips for the Best Pumpkin Bread
- Use room-temperature eggs: They mix more easily with the sugar and help the loaf rise evenly.
- Don’t overmix: Stir until just combined. Overworking the batter can lead to a dense loaf.
- Line the pan: For easy cleanup and loaf removal, line the pan with parchment paper that overhangs the sides.
- Customize your mix-ins: Try chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or pepitas instead of walnuts and raisins.
- Double the batch: This recipe doubles well. Make two loaves—one for now, one to freeze for later.
Serving Suggestions
- Enjoy a slice warm with a pat of butter or cream cheese spread.
- Pair with a hot cup of coffee, chai latte, or herbal tea for a cozy breakfast.
- Use leftover slices to make a sweet pumpkin bread French toast on the weekend.
- Toast and top with almond butter and a drizzle of maple syrup for an energizing snack.
Storage and Freezing
Pumpkin bread keeps well for several days and actually tastes better the next day.
- At room temperature: Store in an airtight container or wrapped in foil for up to 3 days.
- In the refrigerator: Keeps fresh for up to 1 week. Bring to room temp before serving.
- Freezer-friendly: Wrap the cooled loaf or individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and freeze in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or microwave gently to serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes. Make sure it’s well-pureed and strained if watery. Use the same quantity (1 cup), and note that the flavor might be slightly lighter.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Be sure it includes xanthan gum or another binder for best results.
Why did my pumpkin bread sink in the middle?
Overmixing or underbaking are common causes. Also, opening the oven door too early can deflate the loaf. Bake fully and avoid peeking in the first 45 minutes.
Can I reduce the sugar?
You can cut back to 1 cup of sugar if you prefer a less sweet loaf. Just note that it may slightly alter the texture and moisture.
Is this recipe suitable for muffins?
Absolutely! Divide the batter into a lined muffin tin and bake at 350°F for 20–25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
How do I know when pumpkin bread is done?
Insert a toothpick or skewer into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s ready. The edges should pull slightly from the sides of the pan.
What oil works best in pumpkin bread?
Neutral oils like vegetable, canola, or sunflower oil are ideal. You can also use melted coconut oil for a slight tropical note.
Final Thoughts
Homemade pumpkin bread is the essence of fall baking—warm, nostalgic, and irresistibly delicious. With a moist texture, balanced sweetness, and cozy spice blend, this loaf can be enjoyed year-round, but it truly shines when the leaves begin to turn.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying this for the first time, this recipe delivers dependable results and room for creativity. Serve it warm with your favorite hot drink, wrap it up as a thoughtful homemade gift, or keep it all to yourself—no judgment here.