If you’re looking for a cozy, delightful treat that captures the spirit of autumn in every bite, this Easy Pumpkin Bread Recipe is an absolute must-try. It’s wonderfully moist, perfectly spiced, and surprisingly simple to throw together—even if pumpkin baking is new territory for you. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients, you’ll create loaves bursting with warm cinnamon and nutmeg flavors that make your kitchen smell like a dream. Whether for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a festive holiday gift, this pumpkin bread recipe quickly becomes a beloved classic to keep on repeat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays an essential role, from building the right texture to bringing out that signature pumpkin taste and inviting aroma. These simple pantry staples come together beautifully to create a loaf that’s rich but not heavy, lightly spiced but never overpowering.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure while keeping the bread tender and soft.
- 1½ cups granulated sugar: Adds sweetness to balance the spices and pumpkin natural flavor.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda (sifted): Helps with leavening for a light crumb.
- 2 teaspoons baking powder: Also boosts the rise, making the loaf fluffy.
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: The heart of pumpkin spice with a warm, comforting touch.
- ½ teaspoon ground cloves (optional): Adds depth and a subtle spicy kick that pairs beautifully with pumpkin.
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional): Enhances the sweet and spicy profile with its sweet, nutty notes.
- ½ teaspoon fine sea salt: Balances sweetness and intensifies other flavors.
- 3 large eggs, at room temperature: Binds the ingredients for a perfect texture and richness.
- 1 cup extra light olive oil (or vegetable or corn oil): Gives moisture and tenderness without overpowering the pumpkin’s flavor.
- 15 oz canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling): The star ingredient, infusing the bread with authentic pumpkin flavor and gorgeous color.
How to Make Easy Pumpkin Bread Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Pans
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, grease and flour two 8½” x 4½” loaf pans. This simple prep step ensures your pumpkin bread releases easily when baked to perfection.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and salt. Combining these dry ingredients thoroughly builds the foundation for your spice-rich bread, distributing flavors evenly throughout.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
Grab a separate bowl and whisk the eggs, oil, and pumpkin puree until the mixture is smooth and fully combined. This vibrant orange batter is packed with moisture and lends that iconic pumpkin flavor and dense texture.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and gently stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix because a delicate hand ensures your bread stays light and tender rather than dense and gummy.
Step 5: Bake the Pumpkin Bread
Divide the batter evenly into your prepared loaf pans, then slide them into the oven. Bake for 45 to 55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. As it bakes, your kitchen will fill with that magical scent of cinnamon and pumpkin.
Step 6: Cool Before Enjoying
Let the loaves cool in the pans for 10 to 15 minutes; this gentle cooling helps avoid breaking the bread. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely, setting the perfect texture for slicing and serving.
How to Serve Easy Pumpkin Bread Recipe
Garnishes
A simple dusting of powdered sugar, a smear of whipped butter, or a generous slather of cream cheese frosting instantly elevates this pumpkin bread. These garnishes add moisture and sweetness, making each bite even more indulgent.
Side Dishes
Pair with a steaming cup of coffee, chai tea, or hot cocoa for a cozy afternoon treat. For breakfast, add a dollop of yogurt and fresh fruit on the side to balance the sweetness and add freshness.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn your pumpkin bread into gift-worthy treats by slicing and wrapping individual servings in parchment paper tied with twine. You can also serve thick slices toasted with a drizzle of honey and a sprinkle of chopped nuts for texture variation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled completely, store leftover pumpkin bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps it moist and flavorful without drying out.
Freezing
You can freeze pumpkin bread for up to 3 months! Wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap, then foil. To defrost, leave at room temperature or warm gently in the oven for that just-baked feeling.
Reheating
Warm slices in a toaster oven or microwave for 15-20 seconds to revive fresh-baked warmth and softness before serving. A little butter to melt on top after reheating adds an irresistible finishing touch.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?
Absolutely! If using fresh pumpkin, cook it until soft and then puree well. Just remember fresh pumpkin has more moisture, so you may need to adjust the liquid ratios slightly for best results.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Make sure your blend contains xanthan gum for proper texture and rise.
Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to this recipe?
Definitely. Adding a cup of chopped walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips into the batter before baking adds delightful texture and flavor variations while keeping the pumpkin bread moist and delicious.
What’s the best way to keep pumpkin bread moist?
Make sure not to over-bake and store the bread in an airtight container once cooled. Using oil instead of butter in the recipe also helps maintain moisture longer.
Can I double the recipe for more loaves?
Yes, this recipe scales up nicely. Just double every ingredient and split the batter into more pans, adjusting baking time slightly based on the size of your pans.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Easy Pumpkin Bread Recipe enough. It’s a perfect mix of simplicity, comfort, and warm autumn flavors that brings smiles with every slice. Whether you’re new to pumpkin baking or looking for a dependable classic, this bread is sure to become a cherished favorite. So grab your mixing bowls and pumpkin puree, and get ready for some serious deliciousness!
Print
Easy Pumpkin Bread Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 16 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Easy Pumpkin Bread recipe delivers a moist, spiced quick bread perfect for fall or any time you crave a comforting treat. Featuring warm cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg alongside pumpkin puree, this bread is simple to make with common pantry ingredients and requires no special equipment beyond an oven. The quick prep and straightforward steps make it a beginner-friendly baking project with delicious results.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda (sifted)
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground cloves (optional)
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
Wet Ingredients
- 3 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 cup extra light olive oil (or vegetable or corn oil)
- 15 oz canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8½” x 4½” loaf pans to ensure easy removal after baking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together all dry ingredients including flour, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and salt until well combined and evenly distributed.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, oil, and pumpkin puree until the mixture is smooth and fully blended with no lumps.
- Combine Mixtures: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined. It’s important not to overmix to keep the bread tender and light.
- Bake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared loaf pans. Place the pans in the preheated oven and bake for 45–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating the bread is cooked through.
- Cool: Allow the loaves to cool in the pans for 10–15 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing to preserve texture and flavor.
Notes
- Using canned pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, ensures the right sweetness and texture.
- Room temperature eggs help the batter mix more evenly.
- Do not overmix the batter to avoid tough bread.
- Optional spices like cloves and nutmeg add warm aroma but can be omitted if preferred.
- Adjust baking time slightly depending on your oven and pan size.
- Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
