Craving a warm slice of pumpkin bread? This one-bowl recipe is perfect for you! It combines rich pumpkin puree and warm spices with minimal fuss. You’ll save time and clean up while baking a delightful treat for any occasion. In just a few steps, you can enjoy fresh, homemade pumpkin bread that everyone will love. Let’s get started on this easy and quick recipe!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 ½ cups pumpkin puree (canned or homemade)
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– ½ cup brown sugar, packed
– ½ cup vegetable oil
– 3 large eggs
The base of this bread is pumpkin puree. It gives the bread its moist texture and rich flavor. I love using canned pumpkin for its convenience, but homemade works too. The sugars provide sweetness. Granulated sugar gives a nice kick, while brown sugar adds depth. The oil keeps the bread tender. Eggs help bind everything together.
Dry Ingredients
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– ½ teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
– ½ teaspoon ground ginger
– ½ teaspoon salt
The flour is key for structure. Baking soda and baking powder help the bread rise. The spices, like cinnamon and nutmeg, bring warmth. Ginger adds a nice zing. Salt balances the flavors and enhances sweetness.
Optional Add-ins
– ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
– ½ cup chocolate chips
You can add nuts for crunch and richness. Walnuts or pecans are both great choices. Chocolate chips bring a sweet surprise in each bite. Choose one or use both for more flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation
– Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
– In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 ½ cups pumpkin puree, 1 cup granulated sugar, ½ cup brown sugar, and ½ cup vegetable oil. Mix until smooth.
Mixing Ingredients
– Add 3 large eggs, one at a time. Whisk between each egg until fully mixed.
– In another bowl, whisk together 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, ½ teaspoon baking powder, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg, ½ teaspoon ground ginger, and ½ teaspoon salt.
Baking the Bread
– Gradually add the dry mix to the wet mix. Stir gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
– If you want, fold in ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans and ½ cup chocolate chips.
– Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Smooth the top with a spatula.
– Bake for 55-65 minutes. Check with a toothpick. It should come out clean.
– Once baked, let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips & Tricks
Successful Baking
To ensure your bread rises well, use fresh baking soda. Old baking soda may not work. Also, measure your flour correctly. Too much flour can make the bread dense.
Do not overmix the batter. Mixing too much can lead to tough bread. Stir just until the dry ingredients blend in. A few lumps are okay.
Flavor Enhancements
You can add spices for more flavor. Try a pinch of allspice or cloves. These spices add warmth and depth to the taste.
Mix-ins can make your bread special. Add ½ cup of chopped nuts or chocolate chips. These add texture and sweetness, making every bite exciting.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your bread warm or at room temperature. Slice it neatly for best results. A sprinkle of powdered sugar on top looks great.
For a festive touch, serve it on a wooden board. Add a few pecans and a cinnamon stick for decoration. This makes your bread look as good as it tastes.
Variations
Gluten-Free Option
You can make this pumpkin bread gluten-free by swapping all-purpose flour for gluten-free flour blends. Look for blends that include xanthan gum, as this helps with texture. Measure the same amount, about 2 cups. This way, you keep the flavor and moisture while ensuring a gluten-free treat.
Dairy-Free Adaptation
To make this recipe dairy-free, simply replace vegetable oil with coconut oil or a neutral oil like canola. Ensure it is melted if you use coconut oil. This switch keeps the bread moist and adds a light coconut flavor.
Flavor Variations
You can add a twist to your bread by using different spices. Try adding cardamom or allspice for a unique taste. Dried fruits, like cranberries or raisins, can also enhance the flavor. They add sweetness and chewiness, perfect for fall.
Storage Info
Short-term Storage
To keep your one-bowl pumpkin bread fresh, store it at room temperature. Place it in a cool, dry spot. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil. This will help keep moisture in and prevent it from drying out. If you want, you can use a cake dome or a large zip-top bag.
Long-term Storage
For long-term storage, freezing is your best bet. Slice the bread before freezing. This makes it easy to grab a slice later. Wrap each slice in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. Remove as much air as possible. To thaw, take out a slice and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. You can also use the microwave for a quick thaw.
Shelf Life
Your pumpkin bread will stay fresh for about 3 to 5 days at room temperature. If you freeze it, it can last for up to 3 months. Remember, the sooner you eat it, the better the taste!
FAQs
Common Questions
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin. Cook the pumpkin until soft. Then, puree it well. Canned pumpkin is convenient, but fresh adds a nice touch.
How do I know when my pumpkin bread is done?
Check the center with a toothpick. If it comes out clean, the bread is ready. You can also look for a golden brown top.
How can I make it vegan?
To make this bread vegan, replace eggs with flax eggs. Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water per egg. Let it sit for a few minutes to thicken.
Baking Troubleshooting
What to do if the bread is too dry?
If your bread turns out dry, try adding more oil next time. You can also reduce the baking time slightly. Adding a bit of applesauce can help add moisture.
Why is my bread not rising?
If the bread does not rise, check the baking soda and baking powder. They must be fresh to work. Mixing the batter too much can also cause this issue.
Ingredient Substitutions
Can I use brown sugar only?
Yes, you can use only brown sugar. It will give your bread a richer flavor and moisture. Just replace the granulated sugar with an equal amount of brown sugar.
What can I use instead of eggs?
You can use applesauce or mashed banana. Use 1/4 cup for each egg. This keeps the bread moist and adds a hint of sweetness.
In this post, I covered key ingredients for pumpkin bread, including the main, dry, and optional add-ins. I provided step-by-step instructions for preparation, mixing, and baking, along with tips for success and flavor enhancements. Variations cater to gluten-free and dairy-free needs, while storage tips ensure freshness.
Pumpkin bread is fun and versatile. You can personalize it to fit your taste. Try different spices or mix-ins to make it your own! Enjoy sharing this delicious treat with family and friends.
