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If you’re dreaming of cozy fall flavors wrapped up in a tender, moist loaf, this Pumpkin Bread with Brown Sugar Pecan Topping Recipe is an absolute must-try. It brings together the warm spices of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves with the rich earthiness of pumpkin puree, all crowned by a crisp, caramelized pecan topping that creates a perfect contrast in texture. Whether you’re baking for a casual coffee break or a comforting dessert, this pumpkin bread feels like a warm hug, making it an instant favorite for any season.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Pumpkin Bread with Brown Sugar Pecan Topping Recipe lies in its simple yet essential ingredients. Each one plays a pivotal role — from the fragrant spices that awaken your senses, to the pumpkin puree that lends moisture and golden color, and the pecans that introduce a delightful crunch. Together, they create a harmonious loaf that’s as satisfying to make as it is to eat.
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure for a tender, soft crumb.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the bread rise and become fluffy.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: Adds a little extra lift for lightness.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavors.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: The signature warm spice in pumpkin treats.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds depth and a hint of sweetness.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves: Delivers a subtle, aromatic punch.
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree: Moistens the bread and brings a beautiful orange hue.
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter with a clean, classic flavor.
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil: Keeps the bread tender and moist.
- 2 large eggs: Bind ingredients together and enrich the texture.
- 1/4 cup milk: Adds extra moisture for softness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances overall flavor with a sweet, fragrant note.
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans: For that irresistible crunch in the topping.
- 1/3 cup brown sugar: Caramelizes beautifully to create a sweet crust.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted: Binds the topping and adds richness.
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (for topping): Helps keep the pecan topping crumbly yet cohesive.
How to Make Pumpkin Bread with Brown Sugar Pecan Topping Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan thoroughly so your pumpkin bread releases easily after baking. This step helps create that perfect golden crust without any sticking worries.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Combining the spices and leavening agents evenly at this stage ensures your pumpkin bread rises perfectly and delivers those signature warm flavors in every bite.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a larger bowl, stir together the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, milk, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and homogenous. This luscious blend serves as the flavorful base of your bread, bringing moisture and richness.
Step 4: Blend Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. It’s important not to overmix here — keeping the batter slightly lumpy helps maintain a tender texture once baked.
Step 5: Pour Batter into Loaf Pan
Transfer the batter carefully into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing out the top with a spatula so it’s even and ready for the delicious pecan topping.
Step 6: Make and Add the Brown Sugar Pecan Topping
In a small bowl, combine the chopped pecans, brown sugar, melted butter, and one tablespoon of flour. Stir until the mixture forms crumbly clusters. Sprinkle this topping evenly over the pumpkin batter — this is where the magic happens, creating that irresistible sweet and nutty crust.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Bake your pumpkin bread for 55 to 65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on the pecan topping; if it begins to brown too quickly, tent the loaf loosely with foil to protect it while the center finishes baking.
Step 8: Cool and Enjoy
Let the bread cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This rest time helps flavors develop even more — the next day, your pumpkin bread will taste even better!
How to Serve Pumpkin Bread with Brown Sugar Pecan Topping Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Pumpkin Bread with Brown Sugar Pecan Topping Recipe, try a light spread of cream cheese or a drizzle of warm maple syrup. A sprinkle of powdered sugar or extra chopped pecans on top also adds a lovely finishing touch that makes each slice feel extra special.
Side Dishes
This pumpkin bread pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee, chai tea, or even a creamy latte for a cozy breakfast or afternoon snack. For a heartier brunch, serve alongside scrambled eggs and fresh fruit for a balanced and inviting meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn your pumpkin bread into treat-worthy gifts by slicing it and wrapping it in parchment paper tied with rustic twine. Alternatively, make mini versions in muffin tins topped with the same brown sugar pecan topping for individual servings that are perfect for sharing at parties or potlucks.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap your leftover pumpkin bread tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This keeps it soft and moist while preserving the crunch of the pecan topping.
Freezing
This Pumpkin Bread with Brown Sugar Pecan Topping Recipe freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before placing it in the freezer. It will keep its flavor and texture for up to two months, making it a perfect bake-ahead treat.
Reheating
To enjoy your pumpkin bread warm, reheat slices gently in a microwave for 15 to 20 seconds or warm them in a low oven wrapped in foil for about 10 minutes. This helps revive the moist, tender crumb and the crispiness of the pecan topping.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned puree?
Absolutely! If using fresh pumpkin, roast and puree it until smooth before measuring out one cup. Be sure to strain any excess liquid to keep the bread from becoming too wet.
What can I substitute for pecans if I have a nut allergy?
You can leave out the nuts entirely or substitute with seeds like pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds for a similar crunch without the allergens.
Is this bread suitable for freezing before or after baking?
It freezes best after baking and cooling. However, you can freeze the batter in a loaf pan wrapped tightly; just thaw fully before baking, but the texture may be slightly different.
How can I prevent the topping from burning?
If the topping starts to brown too fast, tent the bread with foil during baking. This shields it while allowing the rest of the bread to finish cooking evenly.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Keep in mind that texture might vary slightly, and using xanthan gum might help with binding.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting about homemade pumpkin bread, especially when it’s topped with that irresistible brown sugar pecan crumble. This Pumpkin Bread with Brown Sugar Pecan Topping Recipe is a treasure to keep in your baking repertoire — it’s straightforward, delicious, and perfect for sharing with loved ones. Go ahead, bake a loaf today and watch it disappear bite by bite with smiles all around!
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Pumpkin Bread with Brown Sugar Pecan Topping Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (10 slices) 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Pumpkin Bread with Brown Sugar Pecan Topping is a moist and flavorful quick bread perfect for fall. It combines warm spices and pumpkin puree in the batter, topped with a sweet, crunchy pecan and brown sugar mixture that bakes to a delightful crisp. Ideal as a comforting breakfast or dessert, this American classic is easy to prepare and satisfying to serve.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Topping
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agents and spices.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate large mixing bowl, blend the canned pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, milk, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and homogenous.
- Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring gently just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender.
- Pour Batter: Transfer the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly.
- Prepare Topping: In a small bowl, mix together the chopped pecans, brown sugar, melted butter, and flour until it forms a crumbly texture.
- Add Topping: Sprinkle the pecan brown sugar topping evenly over the batter in the loaf pan.
- Bake: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 55 to 65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating the bread is fully cooked.
- Cool: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving.
Notes
- If the pecan topping starts to brown too quickly while baking, tent the loaf loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning.
- This pumpkin bread tastes even better the next day, allowing the flavors to meld and develop further.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
