The Best Pumpkin Bread Recipe for Fall
As the leaves change colors and a crispness fills the air, it's the perfect time to indulge in seasonal flavors. One of the most beloved treats of fall is pumpkin bread. Whether enjoyed warm with a pat of butter or as a delightful snack, this pumpkin bread recipe is a must-try. Here's how to make the best pumpkin bread that captures the essence of autumn.
Ingredients You'll Need
To create the most delicious pumpkin bread, gather these ingredients:
- 1 cup of canned or freshly pureed pumpkin
- 1/3 cup of vegetable oil
- 2/3 cup of granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup of brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1 3/4 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon of baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder
- 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- Optional: 1/2 cup of chopped nuts or chocolate chips
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to bake your perfect pumpkin bread:
1. Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan and set it aside.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk these ingredients until well combined.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the pumpkin mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep your bread light and fluffy. If desired, fold in the nuts or chocolate chips at this stage.
5. Pour into the Loaf Pan
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. This will ensure even baking.
6. Bake the Pumpkin Bread
Bake in your preheated oven for 55-65 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it as baking times may vary based on your oven.
7. Cool Before Serving
Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This will help maintain the bread's moisture.
Serving Suggestions
This pumpkin bread can be served plain or with a variety of toppings. Consider spreading cream cheese or butter on warm slices. For an extra autumn touch, sprinkle some cinnamon sugar on top before baking for a sweet, crunchy topping.
Storage Tips
If you have leftovers, store the pumpkin bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Embrace the flavors of fall with this simple yet delicious pumpkin bread recipe. Perfect for gatherings, gifting, or enjoying with your favorite fall beverage, this recipe will quickly become a seasonal favorite!