Cozy Pumpkin Bread
A moist, richly spiced pumpkin bread that's perfect for chilly mornings, afternoon treats, or heartfelt gifting.
Equipment
- 9x5-inch loaf pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk and spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cooling rack
Ingredients
For the Pumpkin Bread
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 cup pumpkin purée not pumpkin pie filling
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar packed
- ½ cup vegetable oil or melted butter
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup milk whole or 2%
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Optional Add-Ins
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9x5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.
- Tip: Use clips to hold parchment in place until batter is added.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
- Whisk flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger in a large bowl.
- Tip: Sifting spices helps distribute flavor evenly.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
- In another bowl, whisk together pumpkin purée, sugars, oil, eggs, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
- Tip: Let wet ingredients rest for 5 minutes for richer flavor.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry
- Pour wet into dry and stir gently until just combined. Batter should be thick.
- Tip: Do not overmix to keep the bread tender.
Step 5: Fold In Add-Ins (Optional)
- Gently stir in chocolate chips or nuts if using.
- Tip: Coat add-ins in flour to prevent sinking.
Step 6: Bake
- Pour into prepared loaf pan, smooth top, and bake for 55–65 minutes.
- Tip: Tent with foil if the top browns too fast.
Step 7: Cool
- Let cool in pan for 10–15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool fully before slicing.
- Tip: Cooling allows the texture to set properly.
Notes
Flavor improves the next day—wrap in foil and store overnight.
This loaf freezes beautifully—wrap individual slices for easy reheating.
Customize with glaze, streusel, or swirl variations for seasonal flair.