There are few things as comforting as a warm slice of Pumpkin Bread, perfectly spiced and impossibly moist, especially when autumn’s chill starts to whisper at your window. This recipe brings together all those cozy fall vibes in one simple, fuss-free loaf—plenty of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger give depth, while rich pumpkin puree ensures every bite stays tender. Whether you’re brewing coffee for a lazy Sunday or sharing a sweet treat with friends, this Pumpkin Bread is a no-fail crowd-pleaser you’ll return to again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You only need a handful of pantry staples for this recipe, but each one has its special role in making Pumpkin Bread utterly irresistible. From the aromatic spices to the velvety pumpkin puree, every ingredient adds a unique layer of flavor or texture that makes this loaf shine.

All-purpose flour: Provides the structure and body for a sturdy, sliceable loaf.
Baking soda and baking powder: These leavening agents help the bread rise perfectly, creating a light crumb.
Salt: Balances the sweetness and lifts all the flavors to their fullest potential.
Ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and signature pumpkin spice flavor.
Ground nutmeg: Gives a subtle, earthy kick that pairs beautifully with pumpkin.
Ground cloves: Infuses deep, aromatic notes for a flavor that lingers.
Ground ginger: Brightens the loaf with its spicy zing.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the bread and keeps the crumb tender.
Vegetable oil: Ensures the bread stays moist for days – much more so than butter.
Eggs: Bind everything together and give the bread richness.
Canned pumpkin puree: The star of the show, it delivers moisture and that unmistakable, earthy sweetness.
Milk: Softens the crumb, helping everything blend seamlessly.
Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavor with a deliciously fragrant note.

How to Make Pumpkin Bread

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Preheat

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your Pumpkin Bread bakes evenly and rises perfectly. Lightly grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal—there’s nothing like that moment when your loaf pops right out, golden and beautiful.

Step 2: Whisk the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger. Combining all the dry ingredients first makes for a well-blended, evenly spiced bread, so you get a little bit of everything in each bite.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, beat together the granulated sugar and vegetable oil until smooth. Then, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This process helps incorporate air and gives your Pumpkin Bread a lighter texture. Stir in the pumpkin puree, milk, and vanilla extract until the mixture is beautifully smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Combine and Stir

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until everything is incorporated. Take care not to overmix; a gentle hand keeps your loaf tender and soft. If you’re adding extras like chopped nuts or chocolate chips, fold them in now for an extra treat.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top. Slide it into the oven and bake for 55 to 65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The aroma filling your kitchen will be enough to gather everyone around! Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

How to Serve Pumpkin Bread

Garnishes

A dusting of powdered sugar is classic, but a dollop of whipped cream or even a thin drizzle of maple glaze can make each slice of Pumpkin Bread feel like the ultimate treat. For crunch, a sprinkle of pepitas (pumpkin seeds) or chopped toasted nuts just before baking adds both beauty and texture.

Side Dishes

Pumpkin Bread is deliciously versatile, pairing well with all kinds of breakfast and snack companions. Enjoy it with a tangy yogurt parfait, a fresh fruit salad, or a strong mug of coffee or chai. It’s especially dreamy beside a spread of soft cream cheese or a pat of salted butter.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn slices into a decadent French toast for brunch, or cut thick wedges and toast them lightly before slathering on apple or pumpkin butter. For a party platter, cube the bread and serve with a sweet cream cheese dip—your guests will devour every piece!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To keep your Pumpkin Bread moist and fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It’ll taste just as lovely for up to three days—and the flavors only deepen with time!

Freezing

Pumpkin Bread freezes like a dream. Simply cool the loaf completely, tightly wrap it in foil or plastic wrap, and pop it in a freezer bag. It’ll keep well for up to three months. When you’re ready for a cozy snack, just thaw a slice (or the whole loaf) at room temperature.

Reheating

Reheat slices briefly in the microwave (about 10-15 seconds) for that straight-from-the-oven feel, or toast them lightly for a crisp edge and warm, tender center. Either way, a pat of butter on that warm Pumpkin Bread is pure bliss!

FAQs

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned puree?

Absolutely! Just roast, mash, and drain your pumpkin well to remove excess moisture before measuring. Homemade puree makes the flavor even more vibrant in this Pumpkin Bread.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

You can swap in your favorite 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for the all-purpose flour. Keep in mind that texture may vary a bit, but the flavor will still be delicious!

Can I add mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts?

Yes! Fold in up to 1/2 cup of chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans) or chocolate chips for extra texture and flavor. Both additions make this Pumpkin Bread extra special.

Why is my Pumpkin Bread dense or gummy?

Most often, this happens if the batter was overmixed or if too much liquid was used. Mix just until the ingredients come together, and measure everything carefully for the best crumb.

Can I make mini loaves or muffins with this recipe?

Definitely! Divide the batter among mini loaf pans or muffin tins, and bake at 350°F, checking for doneness at about 20-25 minutes for muffins or 30-40 minutes for mini loaves.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a tried-and-true classic that feels like a warm hug, let this Pumpkin Bread recipe be your go-to all season long. Give it a try, and don’t be surprised if it becomes the most requested bake in your kitchen—one slice is never enough!

Pumpkin Bread Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.9 from 16 reviews

Author: Emma
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 1 loaf (about 10 slices) 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Pumpkin Bread recipe is a delightful treat perfect for fall baking. Moist and flavorful, with a blend of warm spices, this easy pumpkin bread is a great addition to breakfast or as a snack.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients:

1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger

Wet Ingredients:

1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1/2 cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs
1 cup canned pumpkin puree
1/4 cup milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

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Instructions

Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a loaf pan.
Mix dry ingredients: Combine flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger in a bowl.
Blend wet ingredients: Beat sugar and oil, add eggs, then mix in pumpkin, milk, and vanilla.
Combine: Gradually add dry ingredients to wet, mix until just combined.
Bake: Pour batter into pan, bake for 55-65 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cool and serve: Let cool in the pan, then transfer to a rack to slice.