There’s something magical about pulling a loaf of easy pumpkin bread from the oven. The warm spice fills your kitchen, the crust turns golden, and you know a soft, tender slice is waiting with just the right touch of sweetness. This recipe is foolproof and cozy, perfect for autumn but honestly too good not to bake year-round. If you’re the type who likes to start pumpkin season early, a loaf of this bread goes beautifully with a stack of Pumpkin Pancakes for breakfast.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Pumpkin Bread
This bread is everything you want in a fall treat. The prep takes just a few minutes and the ingredients are simple pantry staples. The texture is moist without being heavy, and the flavor is layered with cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll come back to again and again, whether you’re baking for a weekend breakfast, holiday gift, or just because. For a little extra indulgence, try serving a slice with one of these chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cream Pies and watch how quickly the plate disappears.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You won’t need anything fancy to make this loaf. Most of the ingredients are likely sitting in your kitchen already.
Pantry Staples
All-purpose flour and granulated sugar form the base of the batter. Unsalted butter gives the bread richness and softness.
Pumpkin and Spices
Pumpkin puree makes this loaf moist and earthy while cinnamon and nutmeg bring in the cozy flavor. Vanilla extract ties everything together. You can use canned pumpkin for convenience or roast your own for a slightly deeper taste.
Baking Essentials
Eggs add structure, baking powder and soda give the lift, salt sharpens the flavors, and warm milk keeps the bread tender for days.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare Your Pan
Grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper so the bread lifts out easily after baking.
Mix the Dry Ingredients
Whisk together flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined.
Cream Butter and Sugar
In a second bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing until smooth.
Add Pumpkin and Vanilla
Stir in pumpkin puree and vanilla extract until the mixture is creamy and fragrant.
Combine Wet and Dry
Gently fold the dry ingredients into the pumpkin mixture. Pour in warm milk and stir until you have a smooth batter.
Bake to Perfection
Spread the batter into the prepared pan and bake at 350°F for 50 to 55 minutes. The bread is ready when a toothpick comes out with just a few moist crumbs. Cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing. If you’re a chocolate lover, bake a Chocolate Pumpkin Bread at the same time and enjoy a double loaf of fall bliss.
Tips for the Best Pumpkin Bread
Avoid overbaking because pumpkin bread is best when it’s soft in the center. A few crumbs clinging to the tester is actually a good sign. If you want to make the loaf extra special, fold in chocolate chips or walnuts before baking. Dried cranberries also bring a pretty pop of tartness. For gifting, double the recipe and bake two loaves side by side. Your kitchen will smell incredible and you’ll have one to share.
Storing and Freezing
Pumpkin bread keeps beautifully. Store it wrapped at room temperature for a day, then refrigerate for up to one week. For longer storage, wrap slices individually in parchment, then in plastic, and freeze them. They’ll be ready for a quick snack or cozy breakfast for up to two months. Just rewarm in the toaster oven and enjoy with coffee.
FAQs About Easy Pumpkin Bread
Can I make this pumpkin bread dairy-free
Yes, swap the butter for plant-based butter and use almond or oat milk. The bread will still be moist and flavorful, though slightly less rich.
How do I turn this recipe into muffins
Use the same batter, but divide it into a lined muffin tin. Bake at 350°F for 20 to 25 minutes, checking with a toothpick for doneness.
Can I use brown sugar instead of white sugar
You can, but it will add a deeper molasses flavor and make the bread a bit denser. Granulated sugar keeps it light and fluffy.
Nothing says fall like the scent of pumpkin and spice filling your home. Bake a loaf of this easy pumpkin bread today, slice it thick, and share it with someone you love. Don’t forget to leave a comment below if you try it, and pin this recipe so you can come back to it anytime.
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