Easy Pumpkin Bread

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If there’s one thing that instantly makes me feel like fall has arrived, it’s baking a loaf of pumpkin bread. The aroma of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves wafting through my kitchen feels like a warm hug on a crisp day. This Easy Pumpkin Bread recipe is my go-to when I want something comforting, slightly sweet, and utterly moist with minimal effort. It’s the kind of quick bread you can whip up in under 15 minutes and enjoy for days.

I love that it pairs perfectly with a morning coffee, works as a light dessert, or even a cozy afternoon snack. It’s also an excellent make-ahead treat—just slice it up and pop it in the freezer for later. Whether you’re baking it for guests, gifting it to a friend, or savoring it solo, this pumpkin bread is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Pumpkin Bread

This recipe delivers big flavor with very little fuss. The ingredients are simple pantry staples, and you don’t need a mixer or fancy equipment. What you’ll get is a moist, warmly spiced loaf with a deep pumpkin flavor that doesn’t taste overly sweet. It’s also incredibly adaptable—perfect as-is, but also open to mix-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or even a swirl of cream cheese.

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What Kind of Pumpkin Should I Use?

For this recipe, I always use canned pumpkin puree—not pumpkin pie filling. The two are often confused, but pumpkin puree is 100% pure pumpkin without any added sugar or spices, giving you total control over flavor. If you prefer to make your own from fresh pumpkin, just make sure it’s well-drained and mashed to a smooth consistency.

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Options for Substitutions

You can easily make this pumpkin bread your own. Swap the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend if you’re avoiding gluten. Want it dairy-free? Use almond milk or oat milk in place of regular milk and choose oil instead of butter. For a healthier twist, try using half whole wheat flour or reducing the sugar slightly—though be mindful that sugar helps with both flavor and texture.

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Ingredients for This Easy Pumpkin Bread

• Pumpkin Puree – This is the heart of the bread, providing moisture, a deep earthy flavor, and that signature orange hue. Be sure to use 100% pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie mix.
• All-Purpose Flour – Forms the structure of the bread, giving it a tender but sturdy crumb.
• Sugar (Granulated and Brown) – A combination adds the perfect balance of sweetness and moisture. Brown sugar brings a subtle molasses flavor that enhances the pumpkin.
• Vegetable Oil – Keeps the loaf moist for days without needing butter. Neutral in flavor so the spices shine.
• Eggs – Help bind the ingredients and provide lift for a soft and light texture.
• Baking Soda and Baking Powder – These leavening agents ensure your bread rises properly.
• Salt – Just a pinch enhances the flavor and balances the sweetness.
• Spices (Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Cloves, Ginger) – These warming spices are what give pumpkin bread its cozy, fall-inspired character.
• Vanilla Extract – Adds depth and rounds out the flavors.
• Milk – Loosens the batter just enough for a smooth, pourable consistency without making it runny.

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Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper, letting the edges hang over for easy removal.

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Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, sugar, brown sugar, eggs, oil, milk, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and well combined. This ensures an even texture and flavor throughout the loaf.

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Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger). Stir to evenly distribute the spices and leavening agents.

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Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently with a spatula or wooden spoon. Mix just until no streaks of flour remain. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender.

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Step 5: Pour and Smooth

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Use a spatula to smooth the top evenly, so it bakes up with a nice, even surface.

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Step 6: Bake

Place the pan in the center of the oven and bake for 55–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean. If the top browns too quickly, loosely tent it with foil during the last 15 minutes.

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Step 7: Cool Before Slicing

Let the bread cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes, then lift it out and place it on a wire rack to cool completely. This helps set the structure and makes slicing easier.

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How Long to Prepare Easy Pumpkin Bread

Making this pumpkin bread is surprisingly quick and straightforward. Prep time is only about 10–15 minutes, thanks to the simple ingredients and no-fuss mixing method. You don’t need a mixer or any advanced baking skills, just a couple of bowls and a whisk.

Baking time takes around 55–65 minutes, depending on your oven and the moisture in your pumpkin puree. Let the bread cool for at least 15–20 minutes before slicing to ensure it sets properly. Altogether, you can expect it to be ready in just over an hour from start to finish.

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Tips for Perfect Easy Pumpkin Bread

• Use fresh spices: Ground spices lose their potency over time. Make sure yours are fresh to get that rich, fall-inspired flavor.
• Do not overmix: Stir until just combined to avoid a dense or chewy loaf.
• Line your pan: Parchment paper helps lift the bread out easily and prevents sticking.
• Check for doneness: Ovens vary, so test with a toothpick. It should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
• Cool before slicing: Letting it cool completely gives you clean slices and better flavor.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Using pumpkin pie filling instead of puree: The added sugar and spices in the pie filling can throw off the flavor balance.
• Overbaking: This can dry out the bread. Keep an eye on the clock and test early.
• Not measuring flour properly: Scoop and level to avoid using too much, which will make the bread dense.
• Skipping the cooling step: Warm bread may crumble and feel gummy when cut too soon.
• Not checking your oven temperature: An oven thermometer helps ensure accurate baking times.

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What to Serve With Easy Pumpkin Bread?

1. Hot Coffee or Latte

Pumpkin bread and coffee are a match made in fall heaven. Try it with a cinnamon-spiced latte for the full seasonal experience.

2. Greek Yogurt with Honey

A slice alongside a bowl of creamy Greek yogurt drizzled with honey makes a filling and balanced breakfast.

3. Apple Butter or Cinnamon Spread

Slather a slice with a bit of apple butter or a cinnamon cream cheese spread for extra fall flavor.

4. Roasted Nuts or Trail Mix

Pairing it with a crunchy snack like roasted almonds or a nutty trail mix adds texture contrast.

5. A Glass of Cold Milk or Almond Milk

Simple and nostalgic, a glass of cold milk is a great way to wash down a moist slice of pumpkin bread.

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Storage Instructions

Room Temperature

Wrap the pumpkin bread tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for about 3–4 days at room temperature. Avoid refrigerating, as it can dry out the texture.

Freezer Storage

To freeze, wrap the entire loaf (or individual slices) in plastic wrap and then in foil or a freezer bag. It will keep well for 2–3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or for a couple of hours at room temperature.

Reheating

For that fresh-from-the-oven taste, warm slices in the microwave for about 10–15 seconds or toast lightly for a crispy edge.

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Estimated Nutrition (per slice, based on 10 slices)

• Calories: ~230
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Carbohydrates: 33g
• Sugar: 18g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 3g
• Sodium: 200mg
• Cholesterol: 30mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

What if I don’t have all the spices listed?

You can use a pumpkin pie spice blend as a shortcut. Use about 2 to 2.5 teaspoons in place of the individual spices.

Can I make this pumpkin bread vegan?

Yes! Use flax eggs instead of regular eggs (1 tbsp ground flax + 2.5 tbsp water per egg), and substitute dairy-free milk.

How do I know it’s fully baked?

Insert a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean or with only a few crumbs, it’s done.

Can I add chocolate chips or nuts?

Definitely. Stir in up to 3/4 cup of chocolate chips, walnuts, or pecans to the batter before baking.

Is this recipe sweet or more savory?

It leans sweet, but not overwhelmingly so. You can cut back slightly on sugar if you prefer a more subtle taste.

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Conclusion

Easy Pumpkin Bread is one of those timeless recipes that feels special every time you make it. Whether you’re baking it for a seasonal brunch, wrapping it up as a gift, or just enjoying a cozy slice on a quiet afternoon, it never fails to satisfy. With warm spices, rich pumpkin flavor, and a soft, moist texture, this loaf is destined to become a year-round favorite—not just a fall indulgence.

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