Pumpkin Bread: 5 Easy Steps

Last Updated on August 17, 2023 by Allison Lancaster

As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisper, one flavor reigns supreme: the comforting essence of pumpkin. If you’re on the hunt for a delightful homemade pumpkin bread recipe that perfectly encapsulates the spirit of autumn, you’re in for a treat.

In this post, I’ll walk you through making a mouthwatering pumpkin bread at home that beautifully blends the rich taste of pumpkin with the warmth of nutmeg, cinnamon, and the satisfying crunch of walnuts. This recipe is a fantastic addition to fall gatherings or a delightful way to treat yourself to a cozy dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Spice Loaf

This recipe calls for a handful of everyday ingredients that can be easily found in your pantry, making it a convenient choice for a spontaneous baking session. I personally love this recipe because I can also purchase the ingredients from my favorite grocery store: Aldi.

The star of the show, pumpkin puree, lends its moisture and distinct flavor to the bread. The harmonious blend of nutmeg, cinnamon, and chopped walnuts elevates the taste profile, delivering a delightful balance of spice and texture.

Whether you prefer the pure simplicity of the bread or seek to enhance its appeal with a drizzle of glaze or a layer of cream cheese frosting, this recipe accommodates your creative preferences.

You can also add a bit of pumpkin spice into cream cheese frosting like I do in my 3 Ingredient Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls recipe for an elevated flavorful topping.

How to Make the Best Pumpkin Bread Recipe

Before you dive into creating this delectable pumpkin bread, make sure you have these essential tools within reach:

• Two 8×4 Loaf Pans: I personally prefer USA pans for any sort of bakeware. It has stood the test of time in my kitchen!
• A Stand or Hand Mixer: I use my stand Kitchenaid mixer for this recipe but a hand mixer works just as well.

Ingredients & Substitutions

• Large Eggs: This is key for this recipe. Make sure you have large eggs when making the recipe.
• Sugar: You’ll want white granulated sugar for this recipe. If you want to add an even more sweet flavor you can toss in an additional 1 teaspoon of brown sugar but it’s not necessary.
• Walnuts: This is not a must for this recipe but truly does elevate the flavors. You can also use almonds or pecans if you prefer or leave them out altogether.

How to Make a Moist Pumpkin Loaf

1. To make the bread, start by preheating your oven.
2. Next, combine the sugar and oil in a large bowl and mix until well combined. Then add the eggs, water, and pumpkin puree and mix again on high until everything is thoroughly combined.
3. In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, nutmeg, baking soda, and cinnamon. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until everything is well combined. Finally, stir in the chopped walnuts.
4. Grease two loaf pans with butter or cooking spray and divide the batter evenly between them. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the bread comes out clean.
5. Allow the bread to cool in the pans for about 15 minutes before removing to finish cooling on a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature, with or without a glaze or frosting. Enjoy!

How To Store & Reheat Pumpkin Bread

While this pumpkin bread is at its peak on the day it’s baked, you can prolong your enjoyment by storing any leftovers. Seal the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days, or refrigerate it for up to a week.

When it’s time to relive your delicious pumpkin creation, simply slice and enjoy the bread as is, or give it a quick 15-20-second spin in the microwave for that fresh-from-the-oven comfort.

FAQs

Can I Freeze This Pumpkin Bread? Certainly! This homemade pumpkin bread freezes beautifully for up to three months. Once the bread is cool, wrap it snugly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to savor the flavors, thaw the bread overnight in the fridge and slice it to your heart’s content.

Can I Reduce Sugar in This Recipe? Absolutely. If you’re seeking a less sweet version, halve the sugar amount without compromising on taste.

Can I Use Canned Pumpkin Pie Filling? Yes, but keep in mind that this alteration will impart additional sweetness to the bread. In this case, reduce the sugar to one cup to maintain a balanced flavor.

Is Gluten-Free Possible? Absolutely! Transform this recipe into a gluten-free pumpkin bread by substituting regular flour with gluten-free flour or even almond or coconut flour. If opting for almond flour, roast it for a nuttier taste before incorporating it into the batter.

Other Pumpkin Recipes You’re Sure To Love

• Pumpkin Cake
• Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies
• 3 Ingredient Pumpkin Muffins
• No-Bake Pumpkin Caramel Cheesecake

Whether you’re looking for an easy pumpkin spice bread recipe or just a delicious Fall treat, this pumpkin spice loaf is sure to please. So get baking and enjoy some autumn goodness!

What are your favorite Fall recipes? Let us know in the comments below! And be sure to check out our other seasonal favorites like our Apple Crisp or Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake. Happy baking!