Indulge in the warm, comforting flavors of pumpkin bread, a delightful treat that embodies the essence of autumn. This recipe is not only simple but also yields a moist and flavorful loaf that can be enjoyed for breakfast, a snack, or dessert. With aromatic spices and rich pumpkin puree, this bread is bound to become a favorite in your household. Let’s dive into the details of this delicious recipe!
Ingredients
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup walnuts or pecans (optional)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes one 9×5 inch loaf, yielding approximately 10 slices. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 60 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (1 slice), this pumpkin bread contains approximately:
– Calories: 180
– Protein: 2g
– Carbohydrates: 24g
– Fat: 8g
– Fiber: 1g
This nutritional information is based on one slice.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, mix the pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, and sugar until well combined.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
- If desired, fold in the walnuts or pecans.
- Pour the batter into a greased 9×5 inch loaf pan.
- Bake for 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
- Slice and enjoy your delicious pumpkin bread!
Alternative Ingredients
If you want to make this recipe healthier, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. You can also use honey or maple syrup instead of sugar for a natural sweetness.
Serving and Pairings
Pumpkin bread pairs wonderfully with cream cheese or butter. It also makes a great accompaniment to a warm cup of tea or coffee, perfect for a cozy afternoon.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover pumpkin bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also refrigerate it for up to a week. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven for a few minutes or microwave for 15-20 seconds. Yes, it can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using too much flour can make the bread dense; measure accurately.
- Not mixing the wet and dry ingredients separately can lead to uneven baking.
- Overmixing the batter can result in tough bread.
- Make sure your baking powder and soda are fresh for the best rise.
- Not checking for doneness with a toothpick can lead to undercooked bread.
Helpful Tips
- For added flavor, consider adding chocolate chips or dried fruit.
- Let the bread cool completely before slicing for clean cuts.
- Experiment with spices like ginger or cloves for a unique twist.
- Use homemade pumpkin puree for a richer taste.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin. Just roast and puree it, ensuring it’s well-drained to avoid excess moisture.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring you add a binding agent like xanthan gum.
What can I do if the bread is too moist?
If your bread turns out too moist, try reducing the pumpkin puree slightly or increasing the flour by a tablespoon.
Can I add chocolate chips to the batter?
Absolutely! Chocolate chips complement the pumpkin flavor beautifully and add a sweet touch.
How long does pumpkin bread last?
When stored properly, pumpkin bread can last up to a week in the fridge or three months in the freezer.
Conclusion
Pumpkin bread is a delightful and versatile recipe that captures the essence of fall. Whether enjoyed warm with butter or as a sweet treat with coffee, this bread makes for a comforting addition to any meal. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a must-try for pumpkin lovers everywhere!
Pumpkin Bread Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup walnuts or pecans optional
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, mix the pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, and sugar until well combined.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
- If desired, fold in the walnuts or pecans.
- Pour the batter into a greased 9x5 inch loaf pan.
- Bake for 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
- Slice and enjoy your delicious pumpkin bread!
