There’s nothing quite like the cozy feeling of warm pumpkin bread baking in your oven, especially when the leaves start to turn and the air carries that unmistakable hint of fall. I’m so excited to share this Pumpkin Bread Recipe for Fall Recipe that’s become my absolute go-to whenever I want a simple, delicious treat that embodies autumn in every bite. It’s easy to whip up, perfectly moist, and bursting with those comforting spices you crave this time of year—trust me, you’re going to want to bake this again and again.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple & Quick: Just one bowl and under an hour to delicious fall goodness.
- Classic Fall Flavors: Warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves make each slice irresistible.
- Perfectly Moist Texture: The pumpkin puree and oil keep this bread soft and tender every time.
- Versatile & Crowd-Pleasing: Whether it’s a breakfast treat or dessert, this recipe always disappears fast.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this pumpkin bread recipe works in harmony to create that iconic fall flavor and moist texture. When I shop for pumpkin puree, I always look for the canned variety labeled “100% pure pumpkin”—it’s the secret to consistent moistness and flavor without any added sugars or spices.
- All-purpose flour: Provides structure for a tender crumb—measure carefully for best results.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the bread while helping to maintain moisture.
- Baking soda and baking powder: These leavening agents work together to give the bread just the right lift.
- Salt: Balances and enhances the flavors.
- Cinnamon: The star spice of fall, adds warmth and depth.
- Ginger: Adds a subtle kick that complements pumpkin beautifully.
- Nutmeg: A cozy spice that pairs perfectly with the cinnamon.
- Cloves and allspice: Bring complexity to the spice mix without overpowering.
- Vanilla extract: Adds sweetness and rounds out the flavor profile.
- Large eggs: Bind everything together and add richness—room temperature works best here.
- Pumpkin puree: The heart of the recipe, providing moisture and that unmistakable pumpkin flavor.
- Milk: Adds moisture and helps create a tender crumb.
- Canola or vegetable oil: Keeps the bread moist without making it greasy.
Variations
I love that this pumpkin bread recipe is a perfect canvas to personalize. Over time, I’ve tweaked it to match different tastes and dietary needs—don’t hesitate to make it your own!
- Add-Ins: I sometimes toss in a handful of chopped walnuts or chocolate chips for extra texture and indulgence.
- Gluten-Free: I’ve had success swapping all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend—just be sure your blend includes xanthan gum for structure.
- Spice Level: Feel free to adjust the amount of cinnamon and cloves depending on how bold you want the spice profile.
- Sweetener Swap: When I want a slightly richer flavor, I try using brown sugar instead of granulated sugar—adds a touch of molasses.
How to Make Pumpkin Bread Recipe for Fall Recipe
Step 1: Get your oven and ingredients ready
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is key because it ensures your oven is nicely heated before you pop the bread in, helping it bake evenly. While the oven heats, gather all your ingredients to make the process smooth and keep small distractions away.
Step 2: Mix all the dry ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and all your warm spices—cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and allspice. I like to whisk these really well to ensure the spices are evenly spread throughout the batter, so every bite has a balanced flavor.
Step 3: Combine the wet ingredients
Make a well in the center of your dry ingredients and add the eggs, oil, milk, vanilla extract, and pumpkin puree. Whisk the wet ingredients for about 30 seconds first—this helps them blend smoothly before mixing with the dry stuff.
Step 4: Bring it all together
Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry mixture until just combined. Here’s the trick: don’t overmix. Stirring too much can make the bread dense and tough, and we’re aiming for light, fluffy, and moist.
Step 5: Prepare your pan and bake
Line a loaf pan with parchment paper—this makes it so much easier to release the bread once baked. Pour your batter in and pop it into the oven. Bake for 30 minutes, then lightly tent the top of the bread with foil. This step stops the crust from browning too fast while the inside finishes baking. Bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean.
Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Bread Recipe for Fall Recipe
- Use Room Temperature Eggs: I learned that eggs at room temp blend better with wet ingredients, giving a more uniform batter.
- Don’t Skip the Foil Tent: Covering the bread halfway through baking prevents that crust from getting too dark while the center cooks perfectly.
- Parchment Paper for Easy Release: This is my favorite hack to avoid the stress of bread sticking—just lift it out and slice.
- Let it Cool Before Slicing: Slicing too soon traps moisture and makes it gummy; I wait at least 15 minutes for best texture.
How to Serve Pumpkin Bread Recipe for Fall Recipe
Garnishes
I often top my slices with a simple swipe of softened butter or a smear of cream cheese—it melts into the warm bread and adds richness. For something sweeter, a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of powdered sugar feels like autumn magic every time.
Side Dishes
This bread pairs beautifully with a hot mug of coffee or chai tea—my favorite cozy combo. For breakfast, I serve it alongside scrambled eggs, or for a snack, it’s perfect with some fresh apple slices or a handful of nuts.
Creative Ways to Present
For fall gatherings, I like to slice the bread thin and arrange it on a wooden board with seasonal fruits, nuts, and a few little bowls of flavored butters or jams. It turns simple pumpkin bread into an elegant centerpiece that guests love reaching for.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once your pumpkin bread is cool, I wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or keep it in an airtight container. It stays perfectly moist and fresh on the counter for up to four days—great for quick snacks or unexpected visits.
Freezing
I’ve frozen slices individually wrapped in plastic and then foil. When I want a little pumpkin bread fix, I pop a slice out to thaw at room temperature or warm it gently in the microwave. Freezing doesn’t affect the texture much, so it’s a lifesaver when you want to make ahead.
Reheating
To bring back that fresh-from-the-oven softness, I like to warm slices in a toaster oven or regular oven at a low temperature for 5-7 minutes. You can also microwave for 15-20 seconds, then add a pat of butter to melt on top—deliciously cozy!
FAQs
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Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?
Absolutely! You can roast and puree fresh pumpkin, like sugar pumpkins, but be mindful that fresh puree has higher moisture content which can affect the bread’s texture. To keep it consistent, try to drain some of the excess liquid before measuring and using it in the recipe.
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How do I know when my pumpkin bread is done baking?
Insert a toothpick or sharp knife into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with only a few moist crumbs, your bread is perfectly baked. If there’s wet batter, give it a few more minutes and check again.
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Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Simply swap the milk for any plant-based milk like almond, soy, or oat milk. The texture and taste remain delightful, and you can enjoy this pumpkin bread recipe for fall recipe even if you’re avoiding dairy.
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Should I use vegetable oil or canola oil?
Both work great! I’ve used canola oil for a neutral flavor that lets the pumpkin and spices shine, but vegetable oil is an equally good choice. Avoid strong-flavored oils to keep the taste balanced.
Final Thoughts
This pumpkin bread recipe for fall recipe holds a special place in my heart because it’s as comforting as a warm sweater on a chilly day. I’ve shared it countless times with friends and family, and the smiles it brings are endless. Once you try it, I’m sure you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe over and over every season. It’s that good, that easy, and that full of love. So, grab your mixing bowl, pumpkin puree, and let’s make fall extra delicious together!
Print
Pumpkin Bread Recipe for Fall Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 16 servings
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This moist and flavorful Pumpkin Bread is a perfect fall treat made with warm spices and pumpkin puree. It’s a simple one-bowl recipe that comes together quickly and bakes into a soft, delicious loaf ideal for autumn gatherings or a cozy snack.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon allspice
Wet Ingredients
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/3 cup milk
- 1/2 cup canola (or vegetable) oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready when your batter is prepared.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, thoroughly mix the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, baking powder, salt, nutmeg, cinnamon, cloves, ginger, and allspice until well combined and evenly distributed.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the eggs, canola oil, milk, vanilla extract, and pumpkin puree. Whisk the wet ingredients separately for about 30 seconds to combine, then gently fold them into the dry mix until just incorporated. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender.
- Prepare the Pan: Line a loaf pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make removal easier once baked.
- Bake Part 1: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes to start the cooking process and form a solid crust.
- Cover and Bake Part 2: After 30 minutes, loosely cover the loaf pan with tin foil to prevent the top from over-browning. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the pumpkin bread from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Slice and enjoy your warm, spiced pumpkin bread!
Notes
- This pumpkin bread perfectly captures the essence of fall with its warm spices and moist texture.
- The recipe uses a one-bowl method making it quick and easy to prepare, perfect for any autumn occasion.
- Use parchment paper when lining your loaf pan for easy removal and clean-up.
- Ensure the eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
- Loosely covering the bread with foil during the second half of baking prevents excessive browning while ensuring it cooks fully.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 1/16th of loaf)
- Calories: 190 kcal
- Sugar: 14 g
- Sodium: 220 mg
- Fat: 8 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 27 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 35 mg