If you’re searching for a treat that wraps up everything cozy about autumn in one beautiful golden loaf, this Easy Pumpkin Bread Recipe is about to become your new go-to. Each bite is moist, warmly spiced, and perfectly sweet—a comfort bake that transforms even ordinary afternoons into special moments. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, you’ll love how simple this recipe is, and after one slice you’ll see why it’s my favorite way to celebrate pumpkin season.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You won’t believe how downright easy these ingredients are to find, yet each one plays a big role in making sure your loaf has the right balance of flavor, texture, and irresistible aroma. Here’s what you’ll need—and why!
- All-purpose flour: The base of our quick bread, giving it structure without dryness.
- Baking soda: Adds lift, so your pumpkin bread rises beautifully.
- Baking powder: Works alongside baking soda for extra fluffiness.
- Salt: Just a half teaspoon to brighten all the sweet and spicy flavors.
- Ground cinnamon: This classic spice brings out that signature pumpkin warmth.
- Ground nutmeg: Adds depth and a subtle nuttiness to the loaf.
- Ground cloves: Gives a gentle, aromatic kick that makes every bite fragrant.
- Ground ginger: For that little hint of zesty heat—don’t skip it!
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens things up and helps give the bread a tender crumb.
- Vegetable oil: Keeps the bread extra moist and tender, even days later.
- Large eggs: They bind the batter and add richness for that classic quick bread texture.
- Canned pumpkin puree: The heart of the recipe, offering pumpkin flavor and gorgeous color.
- Water: A touch of liquid ensures your loaf stays perfectly moist as it bakes.
- Vanilla extract: Just a teaspoon to round things out and highlight the spices.
How to Make Easy Pumpkin Bread Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (177°C), which gives you enough time to mix your ingredients while it warms up. Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper; both methods will make removing your baked pumpkin bread a breeze!
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger. Blending the dry ingredients thoroughly helps evenly distribute all those cozy flavors—no spice pockets here!
Step 3: Combine Sugar and Oil
In a large bowl, whisk the granulated sugar and vegetable oil together until the mixture looks smooth and almost creamy. This step is key for a luscious crumb and a rich finish.
Step 4: Add Eggs, Pumpkin, Water, and Vanilla
Crack in the eggs one at a time, whisking fully after each addition to make sure everything combines evenly. Stir in the canned pumpkin puree, water, and vanilla extract, embracing that gorgeous autumn color as you mix.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Now, gently add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—stop as soon as you no longer see streaks of flour. The less you stir, the softer and moister your pumpkin bread will be.
Step 6: Pour and Bake
Pour your glorious orange batter into the prepared loaf pan. Smooth the top with a spatula and pop it in the oven. Bake for 55 to 65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean (a few moist crumbs are okay).
Step 7: Cool and Enjoy
Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. This patience pays off—cooling keeps the loaf from becoming gummy and lets the spiced aroma develop fully. Slice and serve!
How to Serve Easy Pumpkin Bread Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of powdered sugar or a handful of toasted chopped nuts on top can add delightful contrast. For an extra-decadent touch, drizzle with a simple vanilla glaze or spread each slice with a pat of sweet cream butter.
Side Dishes
This bread is wonderful with a hot cup of coffee or chai latte. If you’re hosting brunch or an afternoon tea, pair slices with fresh fruit, Greek yogurt, or even a creamy spread of mascarpone cheese for a touch of luxury.
Creative Ways to Present
For party trays, slice the loaf and fan the pieces out with autumn-hued napkins. Or, try cutting thick slices and toasting them lightly—amazing with a dollop of maple whipped cream! Mini loaves also make thoughtful homemade gifts during the fall season.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your Easy Pumpkin Bread Recipe will stay moist if you wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container at room temperature. It keeps wonderfully for up to 3 days—if it even lasts that long!
Freezing
Want to savor fall flavor all year? Once completely cooled, wrap individual slices or the entire loaf in plastic wrap, then foil. Pop it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator or at room temperature when you’re ready for a snack.
Reheating
To rewarm your pumpkin bread, toast a slice briefly or microwave for 10–15 seconds. Warming brings back that fresh-baked softness and lets those pumpkiny, spiced aromas fill your kitchen once again.
FAQs
Can I use homemade pumpkin puree in this Easy Pumpkin Bread Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure your homemade puree is smooth and not too watery. If it’s a bit runny, drain off excess moisture for best results—otherwise your loaf might not bake through as evenly.
Is there a substitute for vegetable oil?
You can use an equal amount of melted coconut oil or canola oil, or even try unsweetened applesauce for a slightly lighter version. Each option keeps the bread moist with just a subtle difference in flavor.
Can I make this Easy Pumpkin Bread Recipe gluten-free?
Swap the all-purpose flour with your favorite 1:1 gluten-free baking mix. Just remember that texture may vary a bit, but the warm, pumpkin-spiced flavors will still shine through.
How can I tell when my pumpkin bread is done?
Start checking at 55 minutes and test by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out mostly clean with just a few moist crumbs, your loaf is ready. If there’s batter, give it a few more minutes and check again.
What makes this Easy Pumpkin Bread Recipe so moist?
It’s a mix of pumpkin puree and oil that gives this bread its beloved softness. Both ingredients add rich moisture, so your loaf stays tender for days—even if you make it ahead!
Final Thoughts
This Easy Pumpkin Bread Recipe isn’t just a fall favorite—it’s pure comfort and happiness in every slice. Whether you enjoy it solo, with friends, or as a simple afternoon treat, I hope it brings warmth and sweetness to your table. Give it a try and let the cozy aromas work their magic!
Print
Easy Pumpkin Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (10 slices)
- Category: Dessert, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Easy Pumpkin Bread Recipe yields a moist and flavorful loaf that’s perfect for fall baking. With warm spices and a hint of sweetness, this one-bowl pumpkin bread is a delightful treat for dessert or snack time.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- 1/4 tsp ground ginger
Wet Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F and prepare a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and spices.
- Mix wet ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk sugar and oil, then add eggs, pumpkin, water, and vanilla.
- Combine wet and dry: Gradually add dry ingredients to wet, mixing until just combined.
- Bake: Pour batter into the pan and bake for 55–65 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool and slice: Let the bread cool before slicing and serving.
Notes
- For added flavor, consider mixing in 1/2 cup of nuts or chocolate chips.
- This pumpkin bread can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days or frozen for longer freshness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 240
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
