As I stepped into the kitchen, the unmistakable scent of fall enveloped me—warm spices melding together like an autumn hug. Today, I’m excited to share my Spiced Pumpkin Bread with a crunchy streusel topping, a true celebration of the season. This cozy breakfast treat is not only forgiving to make—perfect for cooks of all skill levels—but it also boasts a moist, tender crumb that’s infused with cinnamon and nutmeg, making it a delightful companion to your morning coffee or a comforting snack during the day. You won’t believe how quickly this delicious recipe comes together, leaving you with a homemade aroma that draws loved ones to your kitchen. Are you ready to fill your home with the spirit of autumn? Let’s get baking!
Why is Spiced Pumpkin Bread Irresistible?
Cozy Comfort: This Spiced Pumpkin Bread wraps you in the warmth of fall, making it the ideal breakfast treat during crisp mornings.
Moist Texture: With a tender crumb thanks to pure pumpkin puree, every bite is a delightful experience.
Sweet Crunch: The streusel topping adds a crunchy contrast that perfectly complements the soft bread, making it a true delight.
Versatile Recipe: You can easily customize it by adding nuts or chocolate chips for an extra twist!
Quick & Easy: This forgiving recipe comes together quickly, allowing you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the flavors of the season.
Crowd-Pleasing: Whether served warm with butter or drizzled with a glaze, it’s sure to impress family and friends—just like my Decadent Hot Fudge Brownie Bread that everyone raves about!
Spiced Pumpkin Bread Ingredients
• For the Bread
- Unsalted Butter – adds richness and moisture; can substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free alternative.
- All-Purpose Flour – provides structure; whole wheat flour can be used for a denser bread.
- Brown Sugar – offers sweetness and depth; can substitute with coconut sugar for a lower-glycemic option.
- Pumpkin Puree – key base ingredient providing moisture and flavor; ensure using 100% pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling.
- Baking Soda – provides leavening; baking powder can be used as a substitute.
- Ground Cinnamon – essential spice for flavor; can swap with pumpkin pie spice for a different spice profile.
- Ground Ginger – adds warmth and spice; optional; leave out or adjust to taste.
- Allspice – enhances flavor; can substitute with nutmeg, though it changes the flavor slightly.
- Salt – balances sweetness and enhances flavor; no substitutions needed.
- Milk – adds liquid for batter; dairy-free milk like almond or oat milk can be used.
- Eggs – helps bind ingredients and add moisture; flax eggs can be used as a vegan alternative.
- Canola Oil – adds moisture and helps with texture; substitute with vegetable or sunflower oil.
• For the Streusel Topping
- Butter – provides flavor and a rich texture; use unsalted for better control over salt levels.
- Brown Sugar – adds sweetness and a slight caramel flavor to the topping; regular granulated sugar could work in a pinch.
- All-Purpose Flour – ensures a crumbly streusel; whole wheat flour can be substituted for a heartier topping.
- Ground Cinnamon – ties the flavors together; can be adjusted for a spicier topping if desired.
• For the Optional Glaze
- Butter – for richness; melted butter helps the glaze stick to the bread.
- Brown Sugar – creates a sweet, gooey glaze; coconut sugar can be used for a different flavor profile.
- Heavy Cream – adds creaminess to the glaze; milk can be used in a lighter version.
- Maple Syrup – enhances flavor with a touch of nature’s sweetness; can be omitted if not on hand.
- Confectioners Sugar – thickens the glaze; use powdered sugar for a smooth finish.
This Spiced Pumpkin Bread will surely bring warmth and comfort to your fall mornings—let’s get baking!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Spiced Pumpkin Bread
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×5 inch loaf pan by greasing it with non-stick spray or lining it with parchment paper for easy removal later. This step sets the stage for perfectly baked Spiced Pumpkin Bread that will rise beautifully in the oven.
Step 2: Prepare the Streusel
In a medium bowl, melt ¼ cup of unsalted butter and combine it with flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and cinnamon until the mixture resembles a crumbly texture. Once thoroughly mixed, refrigerate the streusel mixture to help it firm up while you prepare the bread, ensuring that it creates a delightful crunchy topping.
Step 3: Brown the Butter
In a saucepan over medium heat, add 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter and let it melt, swirling occasionally. Watch closely as it turns a golden brown, emitting a nutty aroma—about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, remove it from heat and allow it to cool slightly before adding to your batter for added richness.
Step 4: Make the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, brown sugar, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, allspice, and salt until well combined. In another bowl, mix the cooled browned butter with pumpkin puree, milk, eggs, canola oil, and vanilla extract until smooth, creating a rich base for your Spiced Pumpkin Bread.
Step 5: Combine the Ingredients
Gently fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients using a rubber spatula or wooden spoon. Combine until just blended—be careful not to overmix, as this will keep the pumpkin bread tender and moist. You should see a few visible streaks of flour remaining; this is perfect!
Step 6: Bake the Bread
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top evenly. Sprinkle the chilled streusel topping generously over the batter. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean with a few moist crumbs. The aroma will fill your kitchen with the spirit of fall!
Step 7: Cool the Bread
Once baked, remove your Spiced Pumpkin Bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 20 minutes. This allows the loaf to firm up for easier handling. After cooling, carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely, filling your home with an inviting aroma.
Step 8: Prepare the Glaze (Optional)
For an optional sweet finish, in a small saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter and combine it with brown sugar, heavy cream, maple syrup, and a pinch of salt over medium heat. Whisk in confectioners’ sugar until the glaze is smooth. Drizzle this over the warm bread to enhance flavor and add a touch of sweetness before serving.
Spiced Pumpkin Bread Variations to Try
Feel free to elevate your Spiced Pumpkin Bread with these delightful twists that can add a personal touch to your homemade masterpiece!
-
Nuts & Chocolate: Incorporate chopped walnuts or dark chocolate chips into the batter for added texture and flavor. A handful harmonizes beautifully with the spices, creating a richer experience.
-
Flavored Sugars: Swap out brown sugar for maple sugar or coconut sugar to introduce a subtle yet unique sweetness. This little change can bring a delightful twist that elevates the overall flavor profile.
-
Dried Fruits: Toss in some dried cranberries or raisins to bring a touch of tartness. These little bursts of flavor pair wonderfully with the warm spices and are perfect for enhancing that cozy vibe.
-
Spice Swaps: Experiment with spice blends like gingerbread spice or chai spice. Each blend brings its special warmth, giving your bread a distinct and exciting character!
-
Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make this recipe gluten-free. This way, everyone at the table can indulge in the joys of autumn treats, without missing out!
-
Citrus Zest: Add a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest to the batter for a fresh, citrusy zing. This bright note can beautifully balance the rich, warm spices, creating a delightful flavor duo.
-
Pumpkin Pie Spice: Substitute ground cinnamon and ginger with pumpkin pie spice for an effortless take on those beloved fall flavors. It’s like having a one-stop spice shop experience in your loaf!
Don’t forget to serve your warm creation with a dollop of cream cheese or enjoy it alongside a comforting cup of tea. Once you’ve enjoyed this cozy delight, you might also want to check out my Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread for another tasty twist or my Decadent Hot Fudge Brownie Bread for a rich dessert option. Happy baking!
Make Ahead Options
These Spiced Pumpkin Bread loaves are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during hectic fall mornings! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the dry and wet ingredients separately, then storing them in the refrigerator (this helps deepen the flavor). The streusel topping can also be made ahead and kept in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, simply combine the batter and pour it into the prepared loaf pan, top with the chilled streusel, and bake as directed. This way, you’ll enjoy the same delicious, cozy results with minimal morning effort!
Expert Tips for Spiced Pumpkin Bread
• Mind the Mixing: Avoid overmixing the batter. Stir until just combined to keep your Spiced Pumpkin Bread light and fluffy.
• Chill the Streusel: Refrigerate the streusel mixture for at least 15-20 minutes before baking. This prevents it from burning and ensures a crunchy topping.
• Room Temperature Eggs: Use eggs at room temperature for better incorporation into the batter, preventing it from curdling.
• Check for Doneness: Instead of timing alone, test your bread with a toothpick. It should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter.
• Tent with Foil: If the streusel starts to brown too quickly, tent the bread with aluminum foil to ensure it bakes through without burning the top.
What to Serve with Spiced Pumpkin Bread
Embrace the warmth of autumn with delightful pairings that elevate your spiced pumpkin bread experience.
- Creamy Butter: A simple spread of rich, creamy butter enhances the cozy flavors of the bread, creating a meltingly delicious bite.
- Whipped Cream: A light dollop of whipped cream adds a luscious touch that complements the sweet, spiced loaf beautifully.
- Warm Coffee: Nothing pairs quite like a steaming cup of freshly brewed coffee, as its bold flavor balances the sweetness of the bread.
- Maple Syrup Drizzle: A drizzle of pure maple syrup brings a touch of sweetness and a hint of earthiness, adding another layer of autumnal flavor.
- Chai Tea: This spiced brew echoes the flavors in the bread perfectly, making for a comforting afternoon treat. The warmth of chai will wrap around you like a cozy blanket.
- Cream Cheese Frosting: A layer of tangy cream cheese frosting brings a rich and indulgent twist, making each slice feel like a special occasion.
- Honey: A light drizzle of honey enhances the bread’s natural sweetness and adds a floral note that complements the spices.
- Dairy-Free Milk: For a vegan twist, serve with a glass of almond or oat milk to keep the flavors light and nourishing.
- Apple Cider: The crisp, fruity notes of apple cider truly capture the essence of fall, making it an ideal drink to enjoy alongside.
- Chocolate Chip Cookies: Balance the spiced flavors with a warm chocolate chip cookie for a sweet ending to your cozy meal.
How to Store and Freeze Spiced Pumpkin Bread
Room Temperature: Store your Spiced Pumpkin Bread wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Keep it in a cool, dry place to maintain freshness.
Fridge: If you prefer a longer shelf life, store the bread in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Ensure it’s well-wrapped to prevent it from drying out.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze your Spiced Pumpkin Bread in slices or whole. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy it warm, thaw at room temperature or microwave individual slices for about 20-30 seconds before serving.
Spiced Pumpkin Bread Recipe FAQs
What type of pumpkin puree should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! It’s important to use 100% pure pumpkin puree and not pumpkin pie filling. The latter contains added sugars and spices that can alter the final taste of your Spiced Pumpkin Bread. Look for labels that specifically state “pure pumpkin.”
How should I store my Spiced Pumpkin Bread?
You can keep your pumpkin bread wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For even longer storage, consider refrigerating it for up to 1 week. Just make sure it’s well-wrapped to maintain moisture.
Can I freeze Spiced Pumpkin Bread?
Very much! To freeze, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it at room temperature or warm slices in the microwave for 20-30 seconds.
What should I do if my bread turns out too dense?
If your Spiced Pumpkin Bread ends up too dense, it may have been overmixed or the leavening agent wasn’t activated properly. Ensure you fold the wet and dry ingredients gently, mixing until just combined. If it’s your first time, feel free to take a few extra minutes to read through the tips in the recipe to avoid any common pitfalls; I’m confident you’ll get it just right next time!
Can this recipe be made dairy-free or vegan?
Absolutely! To make a dairy-free version of this Spiced Pumpkin Bread, simply substitute the unsalted butter with coconut oil and use a dairy-free milk alternative. If you’re looking for a vegan option, you can replace the eggs with flax eggs—just mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water and let it sit for 5 minutes before adding to the batter. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy this cozy treat!
Can I add nuts or chocolate to this recipe?
The more the merrier! Feel free to fold in your favorite nuts, like walnuts or pecans, or even chocolate chips for an indulgent twist to your Spiced Pumpkin Bread. Just be careful not to overmix when adding extras, as you want to keep that tender crumb.
Heavenly Spiced Pumpkin Bread to Cozy Up Your Fall Mornings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.
- Melt ¼ cup of unsalted butter and combine with flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon to form a crumbly streusel.
- Brown 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat until golden, then cool slightly before adding to the batter.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk all-purpose flour, brown sugar, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, allspice, and salt.
- Mix cooled browned butter with pumpkin puree, milk, eggs, canola oil, and vanilla extract.
- Fold dry ingredients into wet until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Pour batter into the prepared loaf pan and sprinkle the streusel on top. Bake for 45-50 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let the bread cool in the pan for 20 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- For an optional glaze, melt 2 tablespoons of butter and combine with brown sugar, heavy cream, maple syrup, and salt, then whisk in confectioners' sugar.