Name: Easy Pumpkin Bread
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; ½ teaspoon salt; 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon; ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg; ¼ teaspoon ground cloves; 1 cup pumpkin puree (canned, not pumpkin pie filling); 1 cup granulated sugar; ½ cup packed brown sugar; 2 large eggs; ½ cup vegetable oil; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

The moment the first crisp breeze of autumn drifts in, the craving for pumpkin-spiced everything begins. There’s nothing quite like the aroma of pumpkin bread baking in the oven, filling the house with warm notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Moist, tender, and lightly sweet, this easy pumpkin bread recipe is the perfect balance of comfort and simplicity. Whether enjoyed with a hot cup of coffee or as an afternoon treat, trust me, this loaf is worth every bite.

Behind the Recipe

Pumpkin bread has always been a staple in my kitchen during the fall season. It’s the kind of recipe that feels nostalgic, evoking cozy mornings and gatherings with friends where slices are shared over laughter. I wanted a version that was simple enough to whip up in minutes yet delicious enough to feel like a homemade indulgence. This recipe checks all the boxes, giving you the taste of tradition without any fuss.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

Pumpkin bread is a beloved American classic, born out of the abundance of pumpkin in the fall harvest. Early colonial bakers embraced pumpkins not only for their flavor but for their moisture and sweetness, making them perfect for baked goods. Today, pumpkin bread continues to be a seasonal favorite, cherished for its versatility and warm spice profile that never goes out of style.

Why You’ll Love Easy Pumpkin Bread

Versatile: Perfect for breakfast, snack, or dessert, this bread fits any moment of the day.

Budget-Friendly: Made with pantry staples and affordable canned pumpkin.

Quick and Easy: No fancy mixers required, just stir and bake.

Customizable: Add nuts, chocolate chips, or even a cream cheese swirl.

Crowd-Pleasing: A hit with kids and adults alike, especially in the fall.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Stays moist and flavorful for days.

Great for Leftovers: Delicious toasted with butter or turned into pumpkin bread pudding.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

Always use canned pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, to control sweetness and spice.
Do not overmix the batter, this keeps the bread tender.
Line your loaf pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
Let the bread cool completely before slicing, it helps it set beautifully.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Mixing Bowls: One for dry ingredients and one for wet.
Whisk and Spatula: To mix without overworking the batter.
Loaf Pan: Standard 9×5-inch pan for even baking.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accuracy in baking.
Cooling Rack: To prevent soggy bottoms.

Ingredients in Easy Pumpkin Bread

Each ingredient works together to create a loaf that is moist, flavorful, and perfectly spiced.

All-Purpose Flour: 2 cups, provides structure.
Baking Soda: 1 teaspoon, ensures the bread rises well.
Salt: ½ teaspoon, balances flavors.
Cinnamon: 2 teaspoons, adds warmth.
Nutmeg: ½ teaspoon, deepens the spice profile.
Ground Cloves: ¼ teaspoon, brings a subtle, aromatic kick.
Pumpkin Puree: 1 cup canned, gives moisture and earthy sweetness.
Sugar: 1 cup granulated, adds sweetness.
Brown Sugar: ½ cup packed, adds depth and moisture.
Eggs: 2 large, bind ingredients together.
Vegetable Oil: ½ cup, keeps the bread soft and moist.
Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon, rounds out flavors.

Ingredient Substitutions

Flour: Whole wheat flour for added nuttiness.
Sugar: Coconut sugar or honey as alternatives.
Vegetable Oil: Swap with melted butter or coconut oil.
Eggs: Flax eggs for a vegan-friendly option.
Pumpkin Puree: Mashed sweet potato works in a pinch.

Ingredient Spotlight

Pumpkin Puree: The heart of this recipe, giving both flavor and moisture, ensuring every bite is tender.

Cinnamon: The spice that defines pumpkin bread, infusing warmth into the loaf.

Instructions for Making Easy Pumpkin Bread

This recipe is simple enough for beginners but rewarding enough for seasoned bakers.

Preheat Your Equipment: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
Combine Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: In another bowl, mix pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, oil, and vanilla until smooth.
Assemble the Dish: Gradually add dry ingredients to wet, stirring gently until just combined.
Cook to Perfection: Pour batter into loaf pan and bake for 55–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Finishing Touches: Allow bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack.
Serve and Enjoy: Slice thick pieces and serve warm or at room temperature.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

This pumpkin bread is moist, tender, and rich with warm spices. The sweetness is balanced by earthy pumpkin, while the soft crumb makes each slice irresistible. The crust develops a slight caramelized edge, contrasting beautifully with the soft interior.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Store bread wrapped in foil to keep it moist longer.
Add mix-ins like walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips for variety.
Double the recipe and freeze one loaf for later.

What to Avoid

Don’t use pumpkin pie filling, it contains added sugars and spices.
Avoid overbaking, which dries out the bread.
Don’t slice while hot, it will crumble and lose its texture.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 10
Calories per serving: 250

Note: These are approximate values.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 55 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This bread keeps beautifully at room temperature for up to 3 days when wrapped tightly. It also freezes well for up to 2 months—simply slice and wrap individually for easy grab-and-go treats. Reheat slices in the toaster or microwave for that just-baked feel.

How to Serve Easy Pumpkin Bread

Enjoy with a smear of cream cheese or butter, pair it with hot coffee or spiced tea, or use it as the base for a festive fall trifle layered with whipped cream.

Creative Leftover Transformations

Turn slices into French toast by dipping in egg mixture and frying until golden. You can also cube leftover bread for pumpkin bread pudding or use crumbs as a topping for yogurt parfaits.

Additional Tips

Dust the top with powdered sugar for a pretty finish. For extra indulgence, drizzle with cream cheese glaze.

Make It a Showstopper

Serve on a rustic wooden board, sliced thick, with cinnamon sticks and mini pumpkins as décor. A drizzle of glaze or scattering of nuts adds visual appeal.

Variations to Try

Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread: Stir in 1 cup of chocolate chips.
Nutty Pumpkin Bread: Fold in 1 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts.
Cream Cheese Swirl Pumpkin Bread: Swirl softened cream cheese mixture into the batter before baking.
Pumpkin Cranberry Bread: Add dried cranberries for a tart contrast.

FAQ’s

Q1: Can I make this bread vegan?

Yes, use flax eggs and coconut oil instead of eggs and vegetable oil.

Q2: Can I reduce the sugar?

Absolutely, cut sugar by ¼ cup without affecting texture much.

Q3: Can I make muffins instead?

Yes, divide batter into muffin tins and bake for 18–20 minutes.

Q4: Do I need to refrigerate pumpkin bread?

No, it’s fine at room temperature for a few days, but refrigeration extends freshness.

Q5: Can I use fresh pumpkin?

Yes, just roast, mash, and puree until smooth.

Q6: Can I double this recipe?

Yes, it doubles easily and freezes well.

Q7: How do I know it’s fully baked?

A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.

Q8: Can I use pumpkin pie spice instead of separate spices?

Yes, substitute with 2 ½ teaspoons pumpkin pie spice.

Q9: Does it taste better the next day?

Yes, flavors deepen after resting overnight.

Q10: Can I add frosting?

Of course, cream cheese frosting pairs beautifully.

Conclusion

Easy Pumpkin Bread is the essence of cozy fall baking—warm, spiced, and irresistibly moist. It’s simple enough for everyday baking yet special enough to serve at gatherings. Once you make it, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe again and again throughout the season.