Moist, fragrant, and full of warm autumn flavors, pumpkin bread is a timeless classic that captures the cozy essence of the season in every slice. Its tender crumb and rich, spiced aroma make it the perfect treat for crisp mornings, afternoon snacks, or holiday gatherings. The magic begins with pure pumpkin puree, which gives the loaf its signature deep color, natural sweetness, and soft texture. Combined with a blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves, the result is a comforting balance of earthy pumpkin flavor and warming spices that taste like fall baked into a loaf.
Pumpkin bread’s appeal lies in its versatility. It’s delicious served plain, where its subtle sweetness and tender crumb shine, but it also pairs beautifully with a spread of butter, cream cheese, or even a drizzle of honey or maple syrup. For an extra layer of indulgence, you can fold in chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried fruit to add texture and variety. It also makes a wonderful base for creative twists, such as a streusel topping, a cream cheese swirl, or a glaze drizzled over the top for added sweetness.
This quick bread is not only flavorful but also incredibly comforting. The scent of pumpkin and spice filling the kitchen as it bakes is enough to make anyone feel nostalgic for cozy autumn days, festive gatherings, and homemade treats. It’s equally perfect as a breakfast option with a cup of dalgona coffee, a sweet afternoon pick-me-up, or a dessert served slightly warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Pumpkin bread is more than just a seasonal bake – it’s a celebration of fall flavors and simple pleasures. With its moist texture, comforting spices, and endless possibilities for customization, it’s no wonder this classic recipe remains a favorite year after year. One slice is all it takes to savor the comforting taste of autumn.
Ingredients
- 1 can pumpkin puree 15 oz
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups sugar
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 large eggs
- 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
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine pumpkin puree, sugar, vegetable oil, water, and eggs. Mix until smooth.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the pumpkin mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Pour batter into the prepared loaf pan.
- Bake for 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean.
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for a few minutes, then remove to a wire rack to cool completely.
Nutrition
Pumpkin??? I thought this was a banana bread recipe. wth!!
Eh, not my favorite. I think I prefer banana bread instead.
Why do you put nutmeg in this? Is it really necessary? I ain’t ever seen it before in other recipes.
Yummmmm!!! 🍞😍
This pumpkin bread is absolutely delicious! Perfect for fall.
I don’t have eggs right now, can I use applesauce instead?
OMG this is so good! I can’t believe I didn’t find this recipe sooner.
Looks good, but is it really that sweet? I prefer less sugar in my bread.
I tried this recipe and it was a hit at my family gathering! Thanks for sharing!
Not bad, not great. Just okay, I guess.
Super easy to make! My kids loved helping out in the kitchen. Will definitely make again!
I followed the recipe but my bread came out soggy. What did I do wrong?
Too sweet for my taste. I tried using half the sugar and it still was sweet. Next time, I’d try using honey instead.
Yummm!!! Love that this is easy to make. My kids loved it, and that’s saying something!
Pumpkin bread? What’s next, zucchini bread? Lol, just kidding. It was surprisingly good!
This pumpkin bread was amazing!! So moist and flavorful! Definitely making it again!
Did you know pumpkin bread can have real pumpkin? I thought it was just a myth! It turned out just like my grandma used to make!
It’s okay, but I expected more pumpkin flavor… Maybe I should have added more spices? Not sure if I’ll make it again.
This is the best pumpkin bread I’ve ever tasted! So fluffy and flavorful!
This pumpkin bread is amazing! I made it for a family gathering and it was gone in minutes! Definitely a 5-star recipe!
I tried this recipe too! It turned out scrumptious! Perfect for fall gatherings! 🍂
Wasn’t so great for me. Mine turned out a bit dry, maybe I overbaked it? 🤔
Don’t bother. It was dry and just not good… I followed every step and it came out like a brick.
I love pumpkin! 🍂 This recipe is super easy and turned out perfect. My kids ate it all!
That’s awesome! So glad your kids loved it. It’s always a win when they eat their veggies! 🥰
Sounds good, but can I use applesauce instead of pumpkin? I really don’t like pumpkin. 🤔
Yum! My kids loved it, I might try adding chocolate chips next time.
You missed salt in the instructions. I added it at the end and it was okay, but next time imma do it right.
Good catch! Salt is super important. I always add it with the dry ingredients.
Uhm, I think salt is optional. Never added it and my bread turns out fine.
Delicious! Will make this again for sure.
Why do you put water in it? Sounds weird to me. Is it necessary?
Good recipe but can you use fresh pumpkin? A friend said it should be better…
I don’t like cloves, so I left that out. Maybe that’s why it didn’t taste too great? Still, a decent loaf.
I dunno, it was okay but I was expecting more from it. Maybe too much sugar?
I don’t know. It just didn’t taste right. Too sweet and not enough spice. Disappointed.
I musta did somethin wrong. Mine was too dense, not like the one my mom used to make.
Don’t worry! I had the same issue at first. Maybe you mixed it too much? Try being gentle next time.
Your mom’s recipe must be diff. Sometimes the ingredients make a big difference, like the eggs or flour brand.
Absolutely loved this recipe! The bread turned out perfect and so moist!