Moist and Fluffy Pumpkin Bread: A Cozy Fall Favorite
As soon as the air turns crisp and the leaves start to fall, there’s one thing that always makes its way into my kitchen –pumpkin bread. This moist, tender loaf is the perfect balance of sweet, spiced, and comforting. Whether you enjoy it warm from the oven or toasted the next day with a smear of butter, it’s pure autumn bliss in every bite.
The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, uses simple pantry ingredients, and fills your home with that irresistible cinnamon-and-nutmeg aroma. Let’s walk through how to make the perfect pumpkin bread from scratch.
Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Bread
- Moist and tender texture thanks to pumpkin puree and applesauce
- Warm, cozy spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves
- Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert
- Freezer-friendly so you can enjoy it any time
Ingredients You’ll Need (Exact Measurements)
- 1 3/4 cups (220g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup (100g) packed brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup (60g) unsweetened applesauce
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups (340g) pumpkin puree
- 1/4 cup (60ml) milk
- 1/2 cup (60g) chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat and prepare – Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- Mix dry ingredients – In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and all the spices.
- Mix wet ingredients – In a large bowl, whisk together granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, vegetable oil, applesauce, and vanilla until smooth. Stir in pumpkin puree until fully combined.
- Combine – Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined.
- Add milk and nuts – Stir in the milk until the batter is smooth. Fold in walnuts or pecans if desired.
- Bake – Pour the batter into the pan and smooth the top. Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool & serve – Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Pumpkin Bread
- Don’t overmix – This keeps the bread soft and fluffy.
- Check early – Oven times can vary, so start checking at 50 minutes.
- Make it your own – Add chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or a streusel topping.
Storing and Freezing
- Store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze slices or the whole loaf for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before serving.
This pumpkin bread is the ultimate fall comfort food, perfect for cozy mornings with coffee or an afternoon treat. Once you make it, don’t be surprised if it becomes a seasonal tradition in your home!