Moist Pumpkin Bread
Moist Pumpkin Bread is a cozy, flavorful quick bread bursting with tender pumpkin puree and warm autumn spices. Perfect for fall breakfasts, snacks, or holiday gatherings, this easy-to-make loaf stays soft and moist thanks to the right balance of ingredients and careful baking. Adaptable for dietary preferences and customizable with nuts, chocolate chips, or vegan swaps, it’s a versatile seasonal favorite.
Equipment
- Loaf pan (9x5 inches recommended)
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Whisk or spoon
- Toothpick or cake tester
- Cooling rack
Ingredients
- 1 ¾ cups (220 g) all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend)
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg
- ¼ tsp ground cloves
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 cup (240 g) pumpkin puree (canned or fresh)
- ¾ cup (150 g) granulated sugar or brown sugar
- ½ cup (120 ml) vegetable oil or melted butter
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Optional: ½ cup chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x5-inch loaf pan or line with parchment paper.
- Whisk dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine flour, baking soda, baking powder, spices, and salt. Set aside.
- Mix wet ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk pumpkin puree, sugar, oil (or butter), eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Combine: Gradually add dry ingredients into wet, folding gently until just combined. Do not overmix. Fold in optional mix-ins if using.
- Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 55–65 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Start checking at 55 minutes to avoid overbaking.
- Cool: Let the bread cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Notes
- For a healthier version, substitute half the oil with applesauce.
- Use fresh homemade pumpkin puree for vibrant flavor but ensure it’s well-drained to avoid sogginess.
- To keep bread moist longer, wrap tightly and store at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate up to a week.
- Freeze slices individually wrapped for up to 3 months.
- Try adding cream cheese swirls or a streusel topping for extra indulgence.