Pumpkin Bread Recipe

Quick Description:

This Pumpkin Bread is a fall-inspired treat that’s moist, flavorful, and full of cozy spices. Made with real pumpkin and a blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, it’s the perfect balance of sweetness and spice. Whether for breakfast, dessert, or a snack, this bread will quickly become a seasonal favorite.

Servings & Timing:

  • Servings: 12 slices
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Bake Time: 60 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Nutritional Info (Per Slice – Approximate):

  • Calories: 210
  • Protein: 3g
  • Fat: 10g
  • Carbs: 29g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Net Carbs: 27g
  • WW SmartPoints: ~5

Ingredients List:

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 tsp ground cloves
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil (or melted butter)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar (or coconut sugar)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • Optional: 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
  • Optional: 1/2 cup chocolate chips (for added indulgence)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
  3. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk the eggs, pumpkin puree, oil, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
  4. Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Avoid over-mixing. If desired, fold in nuts or chocolate chips.
  5. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Smooth the top with a spatula and bake for 55–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  6. Cool and Serve: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Additional Notes:

  • Tip: If you prefer a sweeter bread, you can add 1/2 cup of brown sugar to the batter for extra moisture and flavor.
  • Make it Your Own: Feel free to add in raisins, dried cranberries, or a dash of orange zest for a fresh twist.

Dietary Info:

  • Vegetarian
  • Can be made gluten-free (use a gluten-free flour blend)
  • Can be made dairy-free (use plant-based oil and dairy-free chocolate chips)

Brief Introduction:
This Pumpkin Bread is a perfect fall treat that’s simple to make and packed with the comforting flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and pumpkin. It’s great for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or even served as a dessert with a cup of tea or coffee.

Flavor Tips & Variations:

  • Cranberry-Pumpkin Twist: Add dried cranberries to the batter for a tart contrast to the sweetness.
  • Spicy Version: Increase the spices or add a pinch of ginger for an extra kick.
  • Topping Option: Top the bread with a glaze made of powdered sugar and milk for a sweet finish.

Ingredient Substitutions:

  • Oil: You can substitute vegetable oil with melted coconut oil or butter for a richer flavor.
  • Sugar: Use brown sugar or maple syrup if you prefer a more natural sweetener.
  • Pumpkin Puree: If you don’t have pumpkin puree, you can substitute with mashed sweet potato or butternut squash puree.

Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions:

  • Serve With: This bread pairs wonderfully with a cup of hot coffee or tea. For a breakfast treat, serve it with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a spread of almond butter.
  • Add a Topping: Serve it warm with a smear of cream cheese or a dusting of powdered sugar for a decadent touch.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips:

  • Fridge: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.
  • Freezer-Friendly: Wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw at room temperature before serving.