Classic Spiced Pumpkin Bread Recipe

This Classic Spiced Pumpkin Bread is the perfect treat to enjoy during pumpkin season! With a moist, tender crumb and a fragrant blend of fall spices, this easy bread is a must-bake for autumn. It’s wonderfully versatile and can be enjoyed as a cozy breakfast, afternoon snack, or dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make: Just mix the ingredients, pour into a pan, and bake—no mixer needed.
Rich in Fall Flavors: A blend of cinnamon, ginger, and cloves gives the bread its warm, comforting taste.
Perfect for Gifting: This recipe yields one loaf, making it ideal for sharing with friends or family.
Versatile: Enjoy it plain, or add mix-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or dried cranberries for extra flavor.

Ingredients

1 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1½ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground ginger
¼ teaspoon ground cloves

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves.

Step 4: Combine and Pour

Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the bread dense.

Step 5: Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool

Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Mixing bowls
Whisk
Measuring cups and spoons
9×5-inch loaf pan
Wire rack
Spatula

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving Suggestions: Enjoy a slice of pumpkin bread as is, or spread with butter, cream cheese, or even a drizzle of honey for a bit of sweetness. It pairs perfectly with a warm cup of coffee or tea.
Storage: Wrap the bread in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week.
Freezing: Pumpkin bread freezes well. Wrap the cooled loaf (or individual slices) in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Recipe Variations

Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread: Add ½ cup of chocolate chips to the batter for a rich, chocolatey twist.
Nutty Addition: Mix in ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture.
Cranberry Twist: Add ½ cup of dried cranberries for a sweet, tangy flavor that complements the pumpkin.
Maple Glaze: Drizzle a maple glaze on top by mixing powdered sugar with a bit of maple syrup and milk.

Helpful Notes

Use Pure Pumpkin Puree: Be sure to use pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, which contains added spices and sugar.
Check for Doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, the bread is ready.
Avoid Overmixing: Stir the batter until just combined to prevent a tough, dense texture in the bread.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs

Ina Garten’s Tip for Moist Quick Breads: Add a bit of oil along with butter to keep the bread moist. Vegetable oil in this recipe enhances tenderness.
Martha Stewart’s Baking Advice: Use fresh spices whenever possible, as they add a stronger, more vibrant flavor to baked goods.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use homemade pumpkin puree?
Yes, you can use homemade pumpkin puree, but be sure to drain any excess liquid for a similar consistency to canned pumpkin.

Can I make this bread gluten-free?
You can substitute a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for the all-purpose flour to make this bread gluten-free.

How can I make this bread healthier?
Use whole wheat flour in place of all-purpose flour, and substitute honey or maple syrup for half of the sugar for a healthier option.

Can I use melted butter instead of oil?
Yes, melted butter can be used in place of vegetable oil, but the texture may be slightly denser.

How do I keep the bread from sticking to the pan?
Grease and flour the loaf pan well, or use parchment paper to line the pan for easy removal.

This Classic Spiced Pumpkin Bread is packed with the flavors of fall and perfect for any occasion. Simple to make and wonderfully fragrant, it’s a cozy treat you’ll want to bake again and again. Enjoy a slice with family or friends and celebrate the warm, comforting taste of the season!