Homemade Pumpkin Bread – The Quintessential Fall Comfort Treat
When autumn arrives, there’s nothing quite like the warmth and aroma of freshly baked Pumpkin Bread. It’s a beloved treat that encapsulates the essence of the season, offering a delightful combination of spices, a tender crumb, and the rich, comforting flavor of pumpkin. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, as an afternoon snack, or as a dessert, this recipe will become a cherished part of your fall traditions.
Ingredients:
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1/3 cup water
- 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
- In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground cloves, and ground allspice. Set this dry mixture aside.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugar:
- In a separate large bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy.
4. Add Eggs and Pumpkin:
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated. Then, mix in the canned pumpkin puree, water, and pure vanilla extract.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine.
6. Pour into the Loaf Pan:
- Pour the pumpkin bread batter into the greased and floured loaf pan.
7. Bake:
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The exact baking time can vary, so keep an eye on it.
8. Cool and Slice:
- Allow the pumpkin bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, slice and enjoy!
Cook’s Notes:
- Customization: Feel free to add chopped nuts (such as walnuts or pecans) or chocolate chips to the batter for additional flavor and texture.
- Storage: Store your homemade pumpkin bread in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days. For longer storage, refrigerate it, or freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer-safe bag.
- Serve with a Spread: Pumpkin bread pairs wonderfully with cream cheese, butter, or even a drizzle of honey for added decadence.
This Homemade Pumpkin Bread recipe is a celebration of autumn’s flavors and comforts. It’s a perfect treat to share with family and friends, whether you’re gathered around the table, enjoying a cozy evening by the fire, or simply savoring the simple joys of the season. Bake a loaf and embrace the delightful tastes of fall.
