Moist Pumpkin Bread recipe
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There’s something special about a slice of moist pumpkin bread, especially when the weather starts to cool and the leaves turn to shades of gold.
This pumpkin bread recipe is not only full of comforting fall flavors but also incredibly tender, with a perfect balance of sweetness and spice. Whether you enjoy it with a morning coffee or as an afternoon snack, this recipe will quickly become a seasonal favorite in your home.
Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Bread
Pumpkin bread is a cozy fall classic, and this recipe brings out everything we adore about it. The secret to its incredible moisture lies in the pumpkin puree, which not only adds flavor but also keeps the bread irresistibly soft for days. Whether you’re a fan of warm spices or a novice baker, this easy recipe will have you baking loaves for every occasion.
Tips for Making Moist Pumpkin Bread
- Use Pure Pumpkin Puree: Be sure to use 100% pumpkin puree and not pumpkin pie filling. Pie filling is pre-sweetened and spiced, which can throw off the recipe.
- Don’t Overmix: Once you add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can cause the bread to be dense and tough.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Using eggs, butter, and milk at room temperature allows the ingredients to combine more easily, resulting in a smoother batter and a more even rise in the oven.
- Spices Matter: If possible, use freshly ground spices. The difference in flavor is subtle but noticeable, especially with warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
- Check Your Loaf Midway: If the top of your bread is browning too quickly, cover it loosely with foil for the last 15-20 minutes of baking. This ensures the inside bakes without the top getting too dark.
Pumpkin Bread Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 ¾ cups (220g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- ½ cup (100g) brown sugar
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 cup (240g) pumpkin puree
- ½ cup (120ml) vegetable oil (or melted butter)
- ¼ cup (60ml) milk, at room temperature
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
- Whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and salt in a large bowl. Set aside.
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs with the granulated sugar and brown sugar until smooth and creamy. Stir in the pumpkin puree, oil, milk, and vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 55-65 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top begins to brown too much, cover it with foil after about 40 minutes.
- Cool the bread in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Common Questions & Answers
1. Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to roast the pumpkin and puree it until smooth. Fresh pumpkin has a bit more water content, so you may need to reduce the liquid slightly in the recipe.
2. How do I keep my pumpkin bread moist?
The key to moist pumpkin bread is using the right amount of fat (oil or butter) and pumpkin puree. Additionally, storing it properly by wrapping it tightly or keeping it in an airtight container will keep it soft for up to 4-5 days.
3. Can I freeze pumpkin bread?
Absolutely! Once the bread is fully cooled, wrap it in plastic wrap, then foil, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
4. Can I add mix-ins?
Yes! Chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit like cranberries are delicious additions. Stir them into the batter right before pouring it into the loaf pan.
5. Why did my pumpkin bread sink in the middle?
This is often caused by underbaking or overmixing the batter. Make sure the center is fully baked before removing it from the oven by testing with a toothpick.
Final Thoughts
This moist pumpkin bread is the epitome of autumn baking. It’s quick to make, stays soft for days, and fills your home with the comforting scents of cinnamon and spice. Whether you’re making it for your family or as a gift, it’s bound to be a hit. Experiment with add-ins or enjoy it plain—either way, it’s sure to become a staple in your fall baking repertoire!