Craving the warm, comforting flavors of fall? This Easy Pumpkin Spice Bread recipe is the perfect treat to bring the cozy autumn vibes right into your kitchen. With a deliciously moist texture, rich pumpkin flavor, and warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, this pumpkin bread will quickly become a family favorite. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is simple to follow and sure to impress. Read on to learn everything you need to know to bake the best pumpkin spice bread from scratch!

What is Pumpkin Spice Bread?
Pumpkin spice bread is a flavorful quick bread made with pure pumpkin puree and a mix of warming spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger. It’s a fall classic that's easy to make, incredibly moist, and has a subtle sweetness. Unlike regular bread, pumpkin spice bread doesn’t require yeast, making it a perfect option for beginner bakers. Its soft, tender crumb and rich flavor make it perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or even dessert.
Ingredients List for Pumpkin Spice Bread
Before you start, gather all the ingredients to make this delicious pumpkin spice bread. Here’s what you’ll need:
- All-purpose flour - 1 ¾ cups
- Pumpkin puree - 1 cup (canned or homemade)
- Granulated sugar - 1 cup
- Brown sugar - ½ cup, packed
- Vegetable oil - ½ cup
- Eggs - 2 large
- Vanilla extract - 1 teaspoon
- Baking powder - 1 teaspoon
- Baking soda - ½ teaspoon
- Salt - ½ teaspoon
- Ground cinnamon - 1 ½ teaspoons
- Ground nutmeg - ½ teaspoon
- Ground cloves - ¼ teaspoon
- Ground ginger - ¼ teaspoon
Equipment List for Pumpkin Spice Bread
In addition to your ingredients, you'll need some basic kitchen tools to make this recipe:
- Mixing bowls - A large bowl for the wet ingredients and a medium bowl for the dry ingredients.
- Whisk or electric mixer - To combine the wet ingredients.
- Spatula - For folding the ingredients together.
- 9x5 inch loaf pan - For baking the bread.
- Parchment paper (optional) - To line the loaf pan for easy removal.
- Cooling rack - To allow the bread to cool completely.
Substitutions and Variations
The great thing about this recipe is how versatile it is. Here are some substitution and variation ideas to make the recipe your own:
- Whole Wheat Flour: Substitute up to half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber and a nuttier flavor.
- Oil Alternatives: Swap the vegetable oil with melted coconut oil or melted butter for a richer flavor.
- Sugar Alternatives: Replace granulated sugar with coconut sugar or maple syrup for a natural sweetness.
- Spice Adjustments: Feel free to adjust the spices based on your preference, or use a premade pumpkin spice blend if you have it on hand.
- Add-ins: Add a cup of chocolate chips, chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans), or dried cranberries for extra texture and flavor.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend if you need a gluten-free option.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

This pumpkin spice bread recipe is simple to follow. Just make sure you don’t overmix the batter to keep your bread soft and tender.
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Prepare the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger. Whisk to blend everything together and set aside.
- Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently with a spatula until just combined. Avoid overmixing to prevent a dense loaf.
- Pour into Loaf Pan: Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly with the spatula.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a cooling rack. Allow it to cool completely before slicing.
How to Cook Pumpkin Spice Bread: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease or line a loaf pan with parchment paper.
- Measure Dry Ingredients: Combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and spices in a bowl.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, blend pumpkin puree, sugars, oil, eggs, and vanilla.
- Combine: Gently fold dry ingredients into wet ingredients until just mixed.
- Bake: Pour batter into the loaf pan and bake for about 60 minutes.
- Cool: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a rack.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the Batter: Overmixing will result in a dense, tough bread. Stir just until the ingredients are combined.
- Using Too Much Pumpkin: Stick to the 1-cup measurement for pumpkin puree. Adding more will make the bread too moist and dense.
- Not Checking for Doneness: Oven temperatures vary, so check your bread after 55 minutes by inserting a toothpick into the center. It should come out clean.
- Skipping the Cooling Step: Letting the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes and then on a rack helps it set and enhances flavor.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Pumpkin spice bread is versatile and can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. Here are some tips to elevate your presentation:
- Slices and Spreads: Serve slices with a spread of cream cheese, butter, or honey.
- Toast It: Toast a slice for a warm, slightly crispy texture, and top it with a dollop of whipped cream.
- Pair with Coffee or Tea: Pumpkin spice bread pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee, chai tea, or a pumpkin spice latte.
- Serve as a Dessert: Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert option.
How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Bread
Serve this pumpkin spice bread in thick slices, either warm or at room temperature. It’s delicious on its own, but if you want to add a special touch, try one of these serving ideas:
- With a Dollop of Whipped Cream: For a dessert-like treat, add a dollop of whipped cream on top.
- Drizzle of Maple Syrup: A light drizzle of maple syrup adds a touch of sweetness that complements the pumpkin and spices.
- Spread of Cream Cheese: Spread some cream cheese on top of each slice for a creamy, tangy twist.
- Breakfast Toast: Toast a slice and serve it with butter or your favorite nut butter for a satisfying breakfast.
Presentation Ideas for Pumpkin Spice Bread
Want to make your pumpkin spice bread look as good as it tastes? Try these presentation ideas:
- Sprinkle Powdered Sugar: Dust the top with powdered sugar for a simple, elegant look.
- Add a Glaze: Drizzle a glaze made from powdered sugar and milk over the top of the loaf for a sweet finish.
- Top with Pumpkin Seeds: Before baking, sprinkle pumpkin seeds on top of the batter for a crunchy texture and decorative touch.
- Use a Rustic Plate: Serve slices on a rustic wooden board or ceramic plate for a cozy fall vibe.
Pumpkin Spice Bread Recipe Tips
- Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon and level your flour to avoid dense bread.
- Don’t Substitute Pumpkin Pie Filling: Use pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, which has added sugars and spices.
- Make It Ahead: Pumpkin bread actually tastes better the day after it’s baked, as the flavors have time to develop.
- Storage Tips: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
A: Yes! Simply cook and puree the pumpkin until smooth. Make sure it’s thick and not too watery before using.
Q: How can I make this bread gluten-free?
A: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that includes xanthan gum for structure.
Q: Can I make muffins instead of a loaf?
A: Absolutely! Divide the batter into a muffin tin and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Q: What if I don’t have all the spices?
A: You can use a pumpkin spice blend instead, or omit what you don’t have. The bread will still be delicious.
Q: Can I add a streusel topping?
A: Yes! Mix butter, sugar, flour, and cinnamon to make a crumbly streusel and sprinkle it on top before baking.
Conclusion
This Easy Pumpkin Spice Bread is a must-try recipe for anyone who loves the cozy, comforting flavors of fall. Perfectly spiced, moist, and delicious, it’s a versatile treat that’s as good for breakfast as it is for dessert. With easy-to-follow steps and plenty of ways to customize, you’ll be baking this pumpkin bread all season long. So gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and enjoy the rich aroma of pumpkin and spices wafting through your home. Happy baking!
PrintEasy Pumpkin Spice Bread Recipe
This easy Pumpkin Spice Bread recipe brings cozy, warm flavors to your kitchen with a blend of spices and pumpkin purée. Perfect for autumn mornings or holiday gatherings, this quick bread is deliciously moist and flavorful, filled with cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Ready in just under an hour, it’s a fall favorite that’s easy to whip up and share!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 1 loaf 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup pumpkin purée
- 1 cup sugar
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- ½ tsp nutmeg
- ¼ tsp cloves
- ¼ tsp ginger
- ½ tsp salt
- Optional: ½ cup chopped nuts or chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger.
- In a separate bowl, combine pumpkin purée, sugar, vegetable oil, and eggs until smooth.
- Gradually mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined.
- Fold in nuts or chocolate chips if desired.
- Pour batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- For extra flavor, try adding a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on top before baking.
- Bread keeps well wrapped at room temperature for up to 3 days or can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 190mg
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