Name: Irresistibly Soft Pumpkin Bread Perfect for Cozy Days
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 75 min
Total time: 100 min
Ingredients: 15 oz unsweetened pumpkin puree (Essential for moisture and flavor; try homemade for extra touch.); 1 ¼ cups packed light brown sugar (Adds sweetness and moisture; adjust based on preference.); 1 cup granulated sugar (Balances flavors with sweetness.); 1 cup vegetable oil (Ensures tenderness; melted coconut oil works as a swap.); 3 large eggs (Provides structure; use room temperature eggs for best results.); ½ cup buttermilk (Tenderizes the bread and adds tang; substitute with yogurt or milk mixed with vinegar.); 1 tsp vanilla extract (Boosts flavor depth.); 3 cups all-purpose flour (Provides structure; consider whole wheat for added nutrition.); 2 tsp pumpkin pie spice (Infuses warmth; mix your own with cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.); 1 ½ tsp baking powder (Leavening agent for perfect rise.); 1 tsp baking soda (Enhances texture.); 1 tsp kosher salt (Balances flavors.); baking spray with flour (Prevents sticking.); ¼ cup pumpkin seeds (Optional garnish for crunch and flavor.); ¾ cup semisweet chocolate chips (Adds rich sweetness; adjust to taste.); additional pumpkin seeds (Sprinkle on top before baking.)

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As the leaves turn and a crispness fills the air, the kitchen becomes a sanctuary of warmth and comfort. One of my absolute favorite recipes to embrace this cozy season is Soft and Spiced Pumpkin Bread. Not only is it quick to make, but this delightful bread yields two loaves, allowing you to savor the sweet and spiced goodness or share it with loved ones. With its tender texture and the option to fold in indulgent chocolate chips or crunchy pumpkin seeds, it’s no wonder this treat has become a staple in my fall baking repertoire. The aroma that wafts through your home as it bakes will lull you into a state of nostalgia and joy—perfect for accompanying your morning coffee or enjoying as a snack. Are you ready to dive into this autumn favorite?

Why Is This Pumpkin Bread a Must-Try?

Irresistible aroma: The warm spices transform your kitchen into a cozy haven, evoking the spirit of autumn with each baking session.
Versatile options: Whether you prefer rich chocolate chips or crunchy pumpkin seeds, this recipe allows for custom mix-ins to suit your taste.
Pure comfort food: Each slice is soft and moist, delivering a heartwarming bite that’s ideal for breakfast, brunch, or snacking.
Quick and easy: With straightforward steps, you can whip up two delicious loaves in no time—perfect for sharing or indulging.
Nutrient-rich: Using pure pumpkin not only adds delightful flavor but also boosts your fiber intake, making this bread a wholesome option. Enjoy it fresh or freeze for later, and don’t miss out on this autumn staple! Consider pairing it with a side of Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks for a delightful meal!

Pumpkin Bread Ingredients

For the Batter
• 15-oz. can unsweetened pumpkin puree – Essential for moisture and flavor; try homemade pumpkin puree for an extra touch.
• 1 ¼ cups packed light brown sugar – Adds sweetness and moisture; make adjustments based on your preference.
• 1 cup granulated sugar – Balances flavors by adding additional sweetness.
• 1 cup vegetable oil – This ensures tenderness; melted coconut oil works great as a swap.
• 3 large eggs – They provide structure; using room temperature eggs yields the best results.
• ½ cup buttermilk – Tenderizes the bread and adds tang; substitute with yogurt or milk mixed with vinegar if needed.
• 1 tsp. vanilla extract – Boosts the sweetness and depth of flavor in your pumpkin bread.
• 3 cups all-purpose flour – Provides structure; consider whole wheat flour for added nutrition.
• 2 tsp. pumpkin pie spice – Infuses warmth; you can mix your own with cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
• 1 ½ tsp. baking powder – Serves as a leavening agent for that perfect rise.
• 1 tsp. baking soda – Enhances texture and contributes to the bread’s lift.
• 1 tsp. kosher salt – Balances out all the flavors for a well-rounded taste.
• Baking spray with flour – Prevents sticking; parchment paper is a great backup for assurance.
• ¼ cup pumpkin seeds – Optional garnish that enhances crunch and flavor; try sunflower seeds instead if you prefer.
• ¾ cup semisweet chocolate chips – Adds rich sweetness; feel free to adjust according to your taste preferences.

For Optional Topping
• Additional pumpkin seeds – Sprinkle on top before baking for extra texture and visual appeal.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin Bread

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming, grab two 9×5-inch loaf pans and coat them generously with baking spray that contains flour. This will ensure your pumpkin bread releases easily after baking. The aroma of the spray will signal the cozy baking journey ahead!

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the 15-oz. can of unsweetened pumpkin puree, 1 ¼ cups packed light brown sugar, and 1 cup of granulated sugar. Blend these ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and creamy, which should take about 1-2 minutes. The vibrant orange color of the pumpkin will brighten your bowl, and the sweetness will fill the air with warmth.

Step 3: Add Remaining Wet Ingredients
Next, add 3 large eggs (at room temperature), ½ cup buttermilk, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the pumpkin mixture. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated, creating a rich, thick batter. The eggs bring structure, while the buttermilk enhances tenderness, making your pumpkin bread delightfully soft.

Step 4: Whisk Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of pumpkin pie spice, 1 ½ teaspoons of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1 teaspoon of kosher salt. Stir until blended; this step ensures even distribution of the leavening agents and spices. The earthy scent of the spices will evoke the essence of autumn.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures
Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet pumpkin mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be cautious not to overmix, as this could lead to a denser loaf. The batter should look slightly lumpy, with no visible streaks of flour remaining, indicating it’s perfect for your pumpkin bread.

Step 6: Add Optional Ingredients
If you wish, fold in ¾ cup of semisweet chocolate chips or ¼ cup of pumpkin seeds, or a mix of both for extra texture and flavor. The rich chocolate and crunchy seeds will add delightful contrasts to your pumpkin bread. Make sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter for a balanced treat.

Step 7: Prepare to Bake
Evenly divide the batter into your prepared loaf pans. Optionally, sprinkle additional pumpkin seeds on top of each batter-filled pan for enhanced crunch and visual appeal. Give the pans a gentle shake to settle the batter, ensuring an even bake once placed in the oven.

Step 8: Bake Your Bread
Place the loaf pans in your preheated oven and bake for 65-75 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on the bread as it bakes; it should have a golden brown crust and feel firm to the touch. This is the moment when the warm, inviting aroma will envelop your kitchen.

Step 9: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the pans from the oven and let them cool for about 10 minutes in the pans. Afterward, carefully transfer the loaves to a wire rack to cool completely. The texture of your pumpkin bread will become even more tender as it sits, creating the perfect cozy treat to enjoy with your favorite beverage.

What to Serve with Soft and Spiced Pumpkin Bread?

As the comforting aroma of soft and spiced pumpkin bread fills your home, it opens the door to a world of delightful pairings.

Creamy Butter: A pat of rich, creamy butter melts into the warm bread, enhancing its moist texture with each bite.
Maple Syrup Drizzle: A touch of maple syrup adds a sweet, earthy note, perfect for breakfast or a cozy afternoon snack.
Nutty Granola: Sprinkle some nutty granola on top for an added crunch that complements the soft, tender bread beautifully.
Fresh Fruit Slices: Serve with slices of crisp apples or pears to introduce a refreshing, juicy contrast to the spiced loaf.
Whipped Cream Cheese: Spread a layer of fluffy whipped cream cheese for an indulgent pairing that’s both sweet and tangy.
Hot Apple Cider: A warm cup of apple cider enhances the seasonal flavors, making each bite a cozy experience.
Vanilla Ice Cream: For a delightful dessert twist, serve slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream as a sweet reward.
Chai Tea: Pair with a warming chai tea; the spices harmonize beautifully with the pumpkin bread’s flavors for a comforting treat.
Honey Glaze: A light drizzle of honey can elevate the sweetness and bring out the natural flavors of the pumpkin.
Chocolate Milk: For a fun twist, enjoy with a glass of chocolate milk for a nostalgic and indulgent snack together!

Make Ahead Options

These Soft and Spiced Pumpkin Bread loaves are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can mix the dry ingredients and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Similarly, the wet ingredients can be prepped and combined, then refrigerated up to 24 hours in advance—just remember to bring them to room temperature before adding the dry mix. To maintain the bread’s wonderful quality, ensure the batter is not overmixed before baking. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine the wet and dry ingredients, bake as directed, and enjoy fresh, delicious pumpkin bread with minimal effort!

Expert Tips for Pumpkin Bread

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs and buttermilk are at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smoother batter and improves the final texture of your pumpkin bread.
Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf, so gentle folding is key for a light and tender bread.
Custom Mix-Ins: Feel free to experiment with different add-ins! Nuts, chocolate chips, or even dried fruits can elevate your pumpkin bread’s flavor profile. Just be sure to adjust the quantities for balance.
Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick or an instant-read thermometer to check if your bread is done. The internal temperature should be between 200-205°F to ensure it’s perfectly baked.
Storage Tips: Allow your pumpkin bread to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. It keeps well at room temperature for up to two days and can be frozen for later enjoyment.
Avoid Filling Mistakes: Don’t use canned pumpkin pie filling, as it’s loaded with sugars and spices that can alter the taste and texture of your pumpkin bread. Stick with pure pumpkin for the best results!

How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Bread

Room Temperature: Keep your pumpkin bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days for optimal freshness.

Fridge: If you want to extend shelf life, refrigerate the bread for up to 1 week. Wrap it tightly to prevent it from drying out.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze pumpkin bread for up to 3 months. Make sure it’s fully cooled and wrapped in plastic wrap, followed by foil.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a few hours. Reheat slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a toaster for a warm treat.

Pumpkin Bread Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to make this pumpkin bread your own with delightful twists and adaptations that will excite your taste buds!

Dairy-Free: Substitute buttermilk with almond milk mixed with a splash of vinegar for an equally tender loaf.
Chocolate Lovers: Fold in a generous mix of chocolate chips and chopped walnuts for a sweet crunch.
Nutty Delight: Add ½ cup of toasted pecans or walnuts for a heartier texture that complements the pumpkin perfectly.
Whole Grain: Replace up to half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added nutrition and a nuttier flavor.
Spice Level Boost: Increase the pumpkin pie spice to 2.5 teaspoons for a more pronounced warmth or try a hint of cayenne for some unexpected heat.

Mix-Match: Want it all? Combine chocolate chips, nuts, and seeds in one magnificent loaf to satisfy every craving!

Fruity Addition: Toss in ½ cup of raisins or dried cranberries for a hint of sweetness and chewiness that pairs beautifully with the spices.
Pumpkin Seed Variations: Prefer a different crunch? Substitute pumpkin seeds with sunflower seeds for a delightful twist that offers amazing texture.

The beauty of pumpkin bread lies in its versatility. You might enjoy pairing it with a side of Chocolate Zucchini Bread for a fun dessert option, too! You’re on your way to a cozy treat tailored just for you.

Pumpkin Bread Recipe FAQs

What type of pumpkin should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! For best results, use 15 oz. of unsweetened pumpkin puree from a can. However, you can also make your own homemade pumpkin puree from cooked pumpkins. Just roast, scoop, and blend until smooth. Butternut squash or sweet potato puree work well too!

How should I store the pumpkin bread?
To keep your pumpkin bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to extend shelf life, it can be refrigerated for up to 1 week. Just wrap it tightly to prevent it from drying out!

Can I freeze pumpkin bread, and how do I do it?
Yes, you can freeze pumpkin bread for up to 3 months. Make sure it’s cooled completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent frostbite. You can also freeze slices and grab them as needed!

What should I do if my pumpkin bread is too dense?
If your bread turns out dense, it might be due to overmixing the batter or using cold ingredients. For the best texture, mix until just combined, and ensure your eggs and buttermilk are at room temperature. If using whole wheat flour, consider blending it with all-purpose flour.

Is this pumpkin bread safe for pets, like dogs?
Very! While pumpkin itself is safe for dogs in small amounts, this bread contains sugar and potentially chocolate chips, which can be harmful. If you want to share something with your furry friend, try offering plain pumpkin puree instead—just make sure it’s unsweetened!

Can I adjust the spices in the pumpkin bread recipe?
Absolutely! You can tweak the amount of pumpkin pie spice according to your taste preferences. If you’re in the mood for experimenting, you might mix in some additional cinnamon or nutmeg for a bolder flavor, or even leave them out for a milder result.