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Legendary Pumpkin Bread Recipe
Introduction
Pumpkin bread is a beloved treat enjoyed by many for its moist texture, rich flavor, and warm spices. This recipe has been perfected over time and is a crowd-pleaser, whether served with morning coffee, as an afternoon snack, or as a holiday favorite. Its deep autumn flavors make it comforting all year round.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
Wet Ingredients:
- 1 cup (240ml) canned pumpkin puree (like Libby’s)
- ¾ cup (150g) brown sugar
- ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
- ½ cup (120ml) vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Add-ins:
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or dark chocolate chips (for extra texture and flavor)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven & Prepare Pan:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves. Set aside.
- Combine Wet Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, brown sugar, granulated sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Add Optional Ingredients:
- If using, fold in chopped nuts or chocolate chips.
- Bake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool & Serve:
- Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Slice and enjoy!
History of Pumpkin Bread
Pumpkin bread has roots in early American baking traditions. Native Americans used pumpkins in many dishes, and when European settlers arrived, they adopted the ingredient into their baking. Over time, as trade introduced spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, pumpkin bread evolved into the beloved spiced loaf we know today.
Benefits of Pumpkin Bread
- Rich in Vitamins: Pumpkin is packed with Vitamin A, essential for eye health.
- Moist & Tender: Thanks to pumpkin puree, this bread stays soft without needing excessive butter or milk.
- Great for Digestion: The fiber from pumpkin and flour helps with digestion.
- Versatile & Customizable: Can be made healthier with whole wheat flour or additional nuts.
Nutritional Information (Per Slice, Approx.)
- Calories: 220
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Sugar: 18g
- Fat: 9g
- Protein: 3g
- Fiber: 2g
- Vitamin A: 80% of daily value
Conclusion
This pumpkin bread is a tried-and-true recipe that never fails to impress. Whether you enjoy it plain, toasted with butter, or with a cup of coffee, it’s always a delight. Share it with family and friends, and it may just become a staple in your home, just like it has in mine.
Pumpkin Bread Lovers Say…
- “This is the best pumpkin bread I’ve ever had—moist, flavorful, and perfect with my morning coffee!”
- “I made this for my family, and now they request it all the time!”
- “I love how easy this recipe is, and the house smells amazing while it bakes.”
Would you like any modifications, such as a gluten-free or low-sugar version?