Welcome to your new favorite autumn delight! This Pumpkin Bread isn’t just bread; it’s a warm, spiced hug in loaf form, perfectly capturing the essence of pumpkin pie with the delightful convenience of a quick bread. Every slice promises an incredibly tender and moist texture, crowned with the most exquisite brown sugar glaze that elevates it from simple to sublime. Prepare to be enchanted by the comforting aromas filling your kitchen and the rave reviews from everyone who tries it.
Experience the Unmatched Tenderness and Moisture of This Pumpkin Bread
Few things herald the arrival of fall quite like the aroma of freshly baked pumpkin bread. It’s a culinary ritual that brings warmth and joy, transforming a simple ingredient like canned pumpkin into something truly magical. This particular recipe stands out for its astonishingly moist crumb, a quality that many pumpkin breads struggle to achieve without becoming dense. Here, we’ve perfected the balance, ensuring a bread that is never dry or stale, but rather melts in your mouth with every bite. It’s a testament to simple ingredients coming together to create an extraordinary experience, making it an absolute must-try for pumpkin lovers and casual bakers alike.
What sets this recipe apart, beyond its remarkable texture, is the luscious brown sugar glaze. While the bread itself is a star, this glaze acts as the perfect counterpart, adding a caramelized sweetness and an extra layer of moisture that truly takes it “over the top.” It transforms an already delicious quick bread into a dessert-worthy centerpiece, making it ideal for holiday gatherings, cozy breakfasts, or an indulgent afternoon snack.
Making this pumpkin bread is an absolute pleasure, from the ease of preparation to the satisfaction of pulling a golden-brown loaf from the oven. It’s a recipe designed for success, even for novice bakers, promising consistent results and an unforgettable flavor profile that will have you returning to it season after season. If you’re looking for a reliable, utterly delicious pumpkin bread recipe, your search ends here. This is, hands down, our favorite recipe, and we are confident it will become yours too.
“This recipe is incredibly DELICIOUS. Took it to a meeting, and it was gobbled up within minutes and rave reviews from even the picky eaters. Thank you for sharing all your hard work and testing to create this amazing recipe. Well done
– Stace”
Frequently Asked Questions About Baking Pumpkin Bread
Baking homemade pumpkin bread is a rewarding experience, and we’ve gathered answers to some of the most common questions to help you achieve perfect results every time.
While you certainly can omit the glaze, we strongly recommend against it! The brown sugar glaze isn’t just an afterthought; it’s an integral part of what makes this pumpkin bread truly exceptional. It adds a crucial layer of moisture and a delightful caramelized sweetness that perfectly complements the spiced pumpkin flavor of the bread. If you’re going to put in the effort to bake from scratch, why not go all the way for the best possible outcome? If you prefer an alternative to the brown sugar glaze, a luscious cream cheese frosting would also be an incredible addition, offering a tangy contrast to the sweet bread.
Absolutely! This versatile batter is perfect for making mini pumpkin bread loaves or even muffins. Simply divide the batter among smaller loaf pans or muffin tins. Keep a close eye on the baking time, as smaller portions will bake significantly faster than a large loaf. Mini loaves might take around 30-45 minutes, while muffins could be ready in 20-25 minutes. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean when they are fully baked. Adjusting the size can be a great way to portion out treats or create charming gifts.
While this classic Pumpkin Bread recipe is phenomenal on its own, it’s also wonderfully adaptable! For a delightful twist, consider folding in 1 cup of chocolate chips (mini or regular, dark or milk chocolate work beautifully) into the batter before baking. The chocolate melts into pockets of gooey deliciousness. Many readers also enjoy adding a half cup of chopped nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, alongside the optional pecans for the glaze. For a touch of fruity sweetness and chewiness, plump raisins or dried cranberries can be incorporated. Feel free to experiment with your favorite add-ins – just be mindful not to overmix the batter once they’re introduced.
To keep your pumpkin bread moist and delicious, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature. You can also wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap. Stored properly, it will remain fresh for 3 to 4 days. However, be warned: this bread is so incredibly delicious that it rarely lasts that long in most households! If your kitchen is particularly warm, or if you’ve added cream cheese frosting, refrigeration is advisable, though it may slightly alter the texture of the bread. Bringing it back to room temperature before serving will help restore its tenderness.
Yes, absolutely! This is an excellent recipe for meal prepping or making ahead. You can easily double the batch, enjoy one loaf now, and freeze another for later. To freeze, ensure the loaf is completely cooled. Then, wrap it tightly first in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. This double-layer protection helps prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw the loaf in the refrigerator overnight, then bring it to room temperature before serving. For a warm treat, you can gently reheat slices in the microwave or oven.
Essential Ingredients for Your Perfect Pumpkin Bread Loaf
Crafting this irresistible pumpkin bread requires a straightforward list of common baking ingredients. Quality matters, but don’t fret – even everyday brands will yield delicious results. Here’s what you’ll need, along with a few helpful notes:
- All-Purpose Flour: The foundation of our bread. While any good quality all-purpose flour works, I personally love White Lily for its delicate texture if you can find it. King Arthur is another fantastic, reliable brand known for consistent baking results. Using a good flour ensures the perfect crumb structure.
- Baking Soda and Baking Powder: We’re utilizing both leavening agents here to achieve that perfect rise and tender texture. Baking soda reacts with the acidic pumpkin and brown sugar, while baking powder provides an extra lift, resulting in a beautifully airy yet moist loaf.
- Pumpkin Pie Spice: This blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves is the heart of the pumpkin flavor profile. You can use a store-bought mix or make your own for a fresher, more customizable blend.
- Light Brown Sugar: Beyond sweetness, brown sugar contributes to the bread’s incredible moisture. Its molasses content helps keep the crumb tender and adds a subtle caramel note that pairs wonderfully with pumpkin. Make sure it’s packed when measuring to ensure accuracy.
- Pure Pumpkin: This is crucial! Always grab the canned pure pumpkin puree, NOT pumpkin pie filling. Pumpkin pie filling contains added sugars and spices, which will throw off the balance of this recipe significantly. Pure pumpkin provides the natural flavor and moisture we’re looking for. Sweet potato puree can be an excellent substitute if pumpkin is unavailable.
- Eggs: Large eggs, preferably at room temperature, act as a binder, adding structure and richness to the bread. Room temperature eggs emulsify better with other ingredients, leading to a smoother, more uniform batter.
- Vegetable Oil: Unlike butter, which can make baked goods dense when cold, vegetable oil remains liquid at room temperature, ensuring a consistently moist and tender crumb even after cooling. It’s key to the bread’s remarkable texture.
- Water: A small amount of water helps achieve the perfect batter consistency, ensuring the dry ingredients are fully hydrated without overworking the gluten.
- Butter: Essential for the rich, irresistible brown sugar glaze. Use unsalted butter for best control over the overall saltiness.
- Milk: Provides the necessary liquid for the glaze, creating a smooth, pourable consistency that seeps beautifully into the warm bread. Whole milk or 2% milk works best for richness.
- Chopped Pecans: (Optional) These add a wonderful crunch and nutty flavor to the top of the glazed bread. If you’re not a fan of nuts, feel free to omit them or substitute with another favorite, like walnuts.
Mastering the Art of Pumpkin Bread: Step-by-Step Guide
Baking this tender pumpkin bread is a simple process, but following these steps carefully will guarantee a perfect, delicious result every time. Get ready to fill your home with the most inviting autumnal aromas!
Preparation is Key: Setting Up for Success
- Preheat Your Oven & Prepare Your Pan: Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C). If you’re using a metal loaf pan, increase the temperature slightly to 350°F (175°C) as metal pans conduct heat more efficiently. Generously spray your loaf pan with a nonstick cooking spray, or grease and flour it, to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of your baked bread.
Crafting the Perfect Pumpkin Bread Batter
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and pumpkin pie spices. Whisking ensures these ingredients are evenly distributed, which is vital for a consistent rise and flavor throughout the bread.
- Mix Wet Ingredients Separately: In a separate, larger mixing bowl, combine the light brown sugar, pure canned pumpkin puree, room temperature eggs, vegetable oil, and water. Stir these ingredients thoroughly with a whisk or spatula until they are well combined and smooth. This ensures all the liquid components are fully integrated before adding the dry mixture.
- Gently Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients. Stir gently, just until everything is blended and no streaks of dry flour remain. Be very careful not to overmix the batter; overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour too much, leading to a tough, dense bread instead of the desired tender crumb. A few small lumps are perfectly fine.
- Pour and Prepare for Baking: Pour the pumpkin bread batter evenly into your prepared loaf pan. Gently tap the pan on the counter a couple of times to release any large air bubbles and ensure the batter settles uniformly.
Baking to Golden Perfection
- Bake Your Loaf: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes. Baking times can vary depending on your oven and the material of your loaf pan, so it’s always best to start checking for doneness after the first 50 minutes. To test if the bread is fully baked, insert a wooden skewer or toothpick into the center of the loaf; if it comes out clean or with only a few moist crumbs attached, your bread is ready.
The Signature Brown Sugar Glaze: A Sweet Finish
- Prepare the Glaze Mixture: While your pumpkin bread is nearing completion in the oven, begin preparing the decadent brown sugar glaze. In a small saucepan, whisk together the butter, brown sugar, and milk.
- Simmer the Glaze: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring constantly to prevent it from burning or sticking to the bottom of the pan. Allow it to boil for about 1-2 minutes, continuing to whisk. The glaze will thicken slightly as it cooks. Once it reaches a syrupy consistency, remove it from the heat.
- Prepare the Warm Bread for Glazing: As soon as your pumpkin bread is out of the oven and still warm, use a fork, toothpick, or skewer to poke numerous holes across the entire top surface of the loaf. These holes are essential as they will allow the warm brown sugar glaze to seep deep into the bread, infusing it with extra moisture and flavor.
- Set Up for Glazing: Before you begin pouring, place a paper towel or a clean dish towel underneath your loaf pan. This will catch any excess glaze that might overflow, making cleanup much easier, especially if you pour a little too enthusiastically!
- Apply the Warm Glaze: Slowly and carefully pour the warm brown sugar glaze over the warm pumpkin bread. Take your time, aiming for the holes you poked earlier. This controlled pouring will maximize absorption and ensure every part of the bread gets a taste of that glorious glaze.
- Add Optional Pecans & Cool: If you’re using chopped pecans, gently press them into the sticky top of the glazed bread while the glaze is still warm and soft. This will help them adhere. Finally, allow the pumpkin bread to cool completely on a wire rack before attempting to slice it. Cooling allows the bread to set and the flavors to fully meld, ensuring clean slices and the best texture.
Once cooled, slice and savor this delightful, moist pumpkin bread. It’s truly a taste of autumn in every bite!
Craving More Cozy Recipes?
If you loved this pumpkin bread, you’ll surely enjoy these other comforting and delicious recipes perfect for any season!
- Pumpkin Pie Coffee Cake
- The Best Pumpkin Pie
- Pumpkin Cobbler
- Pumpkin Bundt Cake
- Pumpkin Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
- Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cake
- Starbuck’s Gingerbread Loaf
- Cinnamon Streusel Banana Bread
- Pumpkin Poke Cake
- Pumpkin Banana Bread
- Coconut Bread
- Dollywood Cinnamon Bread
Originally published: October 2011
Updated photos & republished September 2024
Pumpkin Bread with Brown Sugar Glaze
This Pumpkin Bread is like pumpkin pie in the form of bread! It is so moist and has the most delicious brown sugar glaze to really take it over the top!
Rated 5 out of 5 stars by 20 users.
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Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings: 6
Author: Brandie Skibinski
Ingredients
For the bread:
- 1 ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1 (15 ounce) can pure pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- ⅓ cup water
For the glaze:
- 1 Tablespoon butter
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 3 Tablespoons milk
- ¼ cup chopped pecans, (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325F degrees (350F if using a metal loaf pan). Spray loaf pan with nonstick cooking spray.
- In a medium bowl, mix together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt and spices.
- In a separate mixing bowl, mix together brown sugar, canned pumpkin, eggs, oil and water. Stir well to combine.
- Add dry ingredients to wet and stir just until blended together. Be careful not to overmix.
- Pour batter into loaf pan and bake for about an hour to an hour and 15 minutes.
- Oven times will vary so just be sure to check your bread after the first 50 minutes. Insert a toothpick to test if it is completely baked through.
- When bread is almost finished, start working on the glaze. In a small saucepan, whisk together butter, brown sugar and milk.
- Bring it up to a boil for about 2 minutes. Whisk constantly so it doesn’t burn.
- When the bread is finished (while still warm), start poking a bunch of holes in it using a fork.
- Be sure to put a paper towel underneath your loaf pan too because once you start pouring the glaze, it may go a little over the edge.
- Start slowly pouring the warm glaze over the warm bread and aim for the holes you poked.
- Press chopped pecans (if you’re using) into the top of the bread. Allow to cool before slicing.
Video
Notes
- Please refer to my FAQ’s (Frequently Asked Questions) and ingredient list above for other substitutions or for the answers to the most common questions.
Recipe Details
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Nutrition
Calories: 539kcal | Carbohydrates: 74g | Protein: 6g | Fat: 25g | Sodium: 653mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 45g
Nutritional Disclaimer
“The Country Cook” is not a dietician or nutritionist, and any nutritional information shared is an estimate. If calorie count and other nutritional values are important to you, we recommend running the ingredients through whichever online nutritional calculator you prefer. Calories and other nutritional values can vary quite a bit depending on which brands were used.
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