Why You’ll Love This Homemade Pumpkin Bread Recipe
If you’re looking for a cozy treat that fills your kitchen with the warm, inviting scents of fall, you’ll love this homemade pumpkin bread recipe.
It’s incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for both seasoned bakers and beginners alike. The rich flavor of pumpkin, combined with warming spices, creates a delightful experience that’s hard to resist.
Plus, the bread stays moist for days, making it a wonderful snack or breakfast option. Whether you enjoy it fresh out of the oven or toasted with butter, this pumpkin bread is sure to become a seasonal favorite in your home.
Ingredients of Homemade Pumpkin Bread
When it comes to making a delicious homemade pumpkin bread, the ingredients are simple but essential. This recipe has a delightful mix of flavors and textures that come together to create something truly special.
Let’s explore what you’ll need to gather from your pantry and fridge to get started on this cozy fall favorite.
Ingredients for Homemade Pumpkin Bread:
- 1 (15 ounce) can pumpkin puree
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1/3 cup skim milk
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
Now, you might be wondering about some of these ingredients. For example, if you’re not a fan of vegetable oil, can you substitute it? Absolutely! You could use melted coconut oil or even unsweetened applesauce for a healthier twist.
And if you don’t have skim milk on hand, whole milk or a dairy-free alternative will work just fine too. The spices are pretty flexible too, so if you’re feeling adventurous, throw in some ginger or cloves for an extra kick.
Just keep in mind that the magic really happens when those spices blend with the pumpkin, creating that warm, inviting aroma that fills your kitchen.
How to Make Homemade Pumpkin Bread
Making homemade pumpkin bread is a delightful experience, and trust me, it’s pretty easy too. First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F. This is essential because you want your bread to bake evenly and rise to perfection.
While that’s warming up, grab your trusty 9×5 bread pan and give it a good greasing and flouring. You don’t want your beautiful loaf to stick; that’s just heartbreaking, isn’t it?
Now, let’s get to the fun part – mixing! In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 (15 ounce) can of pumpkin puree, 2 large eggs, 1/2 cup of vegetable oil, 1/3 cup of skim milk, and 1 cup of brown sugar. Use a whisk or a good old spoon, and mix until everything is well blended and looking like a cozy orange dream.
In another bowl, whisk together 1 3/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg, and 1 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice. Can you smell that? It’s starting to feel like fall already.
Once your dry ingredients are mixed, it’s time to stir them into the pumpkin mixture. Gently fold them together until just combined—don’t overdo it! A few lumps are totally fine; it’s a bread, not a soufflé.
Pour the batter into your prepared bread pan, and slide it into the oven. Let it bake for 45-55 minutes. Now, here’s a little tip: the bread is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
But let’s be real, it’s hard to wait that long when your kitchen smells this good. Once it’s out, let it cool a bit, slice it up, and enjoy your homemade pumpkin bread. It’s the perfect treat for a chilly day, and you can totally brag about your baking skills (even if you’d to Google a few things along the way).
Homemade Pumpkin Bread Substitutions & Variations
While you’re whipping up your homemade pumpkin bread, don’t hesitate to get creative with substitutions and variations that suit your taste.
For a healthier twist, I often swap out half the oil with unsweetened applesauce. Want to kick up the flavor? Try adding chocolate chips or nuts like walnuts or pecans.
If you’re dairy-free, almond or coconut milk works great instead of skim milk. For a spicier kick, I’ve added ginger or cloves.
You can also experiment with different flours, like whole wheat or oat flour, to change the texture and flavor. The possibilities are endless!
What to Serve with Homemade Pumpkin Bread
After you’ve enjoyed the deliciousness of homemade pumpkin bread, you might be wondering what to pair it with for an even more delightful experience.
I love serving mine with a dollop of cream cheese spread or a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar for added sweetness. A warm cup of spiced chai or coffee complements the flavors beautifully.
If you’re in the mood for something savory, try it with a slice of sharp cheddar cheese. For a festive twist, I often add a smear of apple butter.
Each pairing enhances the cozy flavors of the pumpkin bread, making it even more enjoyable!
Additional Tips & Notes
To guarantee your homemade pumpkin bread turns out perfectly every time, it’s helpful to keep a few tips in mind.
First, make sure your ingredients are at room temperature; this helps them blend smoothly.
Don’t overmix the batter; just stir until combined to keep your bread light and fluffy.
I also recommend checking for doneness with a toothpick; if it comes out clean, you’re good to go.
For added flavor, try folding in nuts or chocolate chips.
Finally, let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.
Enjoy your delightful creation!