The Best Old Fashioned Pumpkin Bread Recipe

Introduction

As autumn leaves fall and a crisp chill fills the air, there’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of freshly baked goods. This old fashioned pumpkin bread recipe captures the essence of the season, bringing warmth and joy to your home. It’s a classic, comforting treat that’s incredibly easy to make. Get ready to bake a perfectly moist, delightfully spiced loaf that everyone will adore.

Marie Martin

The Best Old Fashioned Pumpkin Bread Recipe

This recipe yields a moist and flavorful pumpkin bread, perfect for a cozy treat. Made with a blend of spices and both granulated and brown sugar, it’s a delightful autumnal bake.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 55 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 10 minutes mins

Servings: 10 slices

Calories: 300

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 2 eggs
• 1 cup pumpkin puree canned pumpkin
• 1/2 cup canola or vegetable oil
• 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup light brown sugar packed
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 tsp baking soda
• pinch salt Optional

Equipment

• 9×5-inch loaf pan
• Large Mixing Bowl
• Whisk
• Spatula
• Wire rack
• Toothpick

Method

 

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F and prepare a 9×5-inch loaf pan by greasing and flouring it.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, pumpkin, oil, sugars, vanilla, and all the spices until combined.
3. Stir in the flour, baking soda, and optional salt until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
4. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and lightly smooth the top with a spatula.
5. Bake for about 55 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. If needed, tent with foil during the last 15 minutes to prevent over-browning.
6. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

Do not overmix the batter. If the bread browns too quickly, tent it with foil during the last 15 minutes of baking. Store airtight at room temperature for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.

Why You’ll Love This Old Fashioned Pumpkin Bread

This delightful old fashioned pumpkin bread recipe is a true crowd-pleaser, perfect for any occasion.

• Nostalgic Comfort: It brings back cozy memories with its familiar, comforting fall flavors that feel like a warm hug.
• Effortless Prep: Preparing this bread is incredibly simple, requiring minimal effort and straightforward steps perfect for busy parents and beginners.
• Perfectly Moist Texture: Every slice boasts an unbelievably moist and tender crumb, making it melt in your mouth with each bite.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy it as a hearty breakfast, a delightful afternoon snack, or a comforting dessert after any meal.
• Seasonal Favorite: This bread is ideal for autumn gatherings, holiday celebrations, or simply enjoying a taste of fall anytime you crave it.

Ingredients

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to a perfect old fashioned pumpkin bread recipe. We’re using a blend of wet and dry components to create that signature moist texture and rich flavor.

• Wet Ingredients:
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 cup pumpkin puree (canned)
  • 1/2 cup canola or vegetable oil
  • 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup light brown sugar (packed)
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• Dry Ingredients:
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • Optional: pinch of salt

Notes & Substitutions

When baking this old fashioned pumpkin bread recipe, a few ingredient notes can make a big difference.

• Canned Pumpkin: Always ensure you are using 100% pure canned pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling.

As Martha Stewart’s team explains, pure pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie filling are not interchangeable because pie filling contains added spices and sweeteners that will alter the bread’s taste and texture.

• Oil: Vegetable oil or canola oil are excellent choices for their neutral flavor. You can also use melted coconut oil for a subtle coconut note, but ensure it’s fully liquid.
• Spices: Feel free to adjust the spice levels to your preference. If you love a stronger kick, add an extra pinch of cinnamon or ginger.
• Flour: All-purpose flour works wonderfully, but for a gluten-free option, use a reliable 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.
• Sweeteners: The combination of granulated and brown sugar adds depth. You can slightly alter their ratios if you prefer more caramel notes from brown sugar, just keep the total sugar amount consistent.

Equipment

Having the right tools makes baking this old fashioned pumpkin bread recipe even simpler.

• 9×5 inch loaf pan
• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Spatula
• Wire rack
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cooking spray or butter/flour

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious old fashioned pumpkin bread recipe. Precision in measuring and gentle mixing are key to a moist, flavorful loaf.

1. 
   

   Prepare Oven & Pan: First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Next, prepare a 9×5-inch loaf pan by coating it thoroughly with floured cooking spray, or grease and flour it generously. This crucial step prevents sticking and ensures easy removal of your finished bread. Set the prepared pan aside.

   
   
2. 
   

   Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the two eggs, 1 cup of pumpkin puree, 1/2 cup of canola or vegetable oil, 1 1/4 cups of granulated sugar, 1/4 cup of packed light brown sugar, and 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract. Whisk these ingredients together vigorously until they are well combined and the mixture appears smooth and uniform.

   
   
3. 
   

   Add Spices: Now, incorporate the aromatic spices into the wet mixture. Stir in 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, 1 teaspoon of ground nutmeg, 1 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice, 1/2 teaspoon of ground cloves, and 1/4 teaspoon of ground ginger. Mix until the spices are evenly distributed throughout the pumpkin mixture, ensuring every bite of your old fashioned pumpkin bread recipe will be full of flavor.

   
   
4. 
   

   Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gently add 1 3/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking soda, and an optional pinch of salt to the wet mixture. Use a spatula to fold the dry ingredients into the wet ones until they are just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can lead to a tough, dense loaf. A few small lumps are perfectly fine.

   
   
5. 
   

   Fill Loaf Pan: Carefully pour the prepared batter into your greased and floured 9×5-inch loaf pan. Use your spatula to lightly smooth the top of the batter, ensuring it’s evenly distributed in the pan for consistent baking.

   
   
6. 
   

   Bake: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 55 minutes. Baking times can vary slightly depending on your oven, so keep an eye on your bread as it cooks.

   
   
7. 
   

   Check Doneness: To confirm doneness, insert a toothpick into the very center of the bread. It should come out clean, or with just a few moist crumbs clinging to it, but no wet batter. This indicates your old fashioned pumpkin bread recipe is perfectly baked through.

   
   
8. 
   

   Prevent Over-Browning: If you notice the top of your loaf browning too quickly before the center is cooked, gently tent the pan with aluminum foil for the last 15 minutes of baking time. This protects the crust while allowing the interior to finish baking.

   
   
9. 
   

   Cool: Once baked, remove the loaf from the oven. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 to 15 minutes. This cooling period helps the bread set. Then, carefully invert the pan onto a wire rack to allow the bread to cool completely. Cooling completely is essential for the best texture and easy slicing.

   
   

Pro Tips & Troubleshooting

Achieving the perfect old fashioned pumpkin bread recipe is simple with a few smart techniques. These tips help ensure a moist, flavorful loaf every time.

• Don’t Overmix: Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tough, dense bread. Mix until just combined.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Eggs and pumpkin puree at room temperature mix more smoothly and create a more uniform batter.
• Perfect Pumpkin Puree: Always double-check your can to ensure it’s 100% pure pumpkin puree, not pie filling, which is pre-sweetened and spiced.
• Avoid Dry Bread: Measure your flour accurately using the spoon-and-level method, rather than scooping directly from the bag.
• Even Baking: Rotate your loaf pan halfway through the baking time to ensure consistent browning and even cooking.
• Testing Doneness: The toothpick test is your best friend. A clean toothpick means it’s done; moist crumbs are okay, but wet batter means more time.
• Cooling Completely: Resist the urge to slice warm bread. Cooling completely allows the internal structure to set, preventing a gummy texture.

Serving, Storage & Variations

This versatile old fashioned pumpkin bread recipe offers many delicious possibilities. Enjoy it fresh, store it for later, or get creative with tasty additions!

Serving Suggestions

• Enjoy a warm slice spread with softened butter or a generous smear of cream cheese.
• Pair it with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or a festive pumpkin spice latte for a delightful morning treat.
• Serve it as an autumn dessert with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
• It makes a wonderful addition to any holiday brunch or dinner spread, offering a comforting, seasonal flavor.

Storage Instructions

• Store your pumpkin bread in an airtight container or tightly wrapped at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain its moisture.
• For longer storage, wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil, and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Thaw frozen bread at room temperature for a few hours or overnight before serving to restore its delicious texture.

Variations

• Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread: Fold in 1 cup of mini chocolate chips with the dry ingredients for a sweet twist.
• Nutty Pumpkin Bread: Add 1/2 to 1 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch and earthy flavor.
• Streusel Topping: Before baking, sprinkle a mixture of flour, brown sugar, butter, and cinnamon over the batter for a sweet, crunchy top.
• Pumpkin Muffins: Pour the batter into a greased muffin tin. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
• Cream Cheese Swirl: Prepare a simple cream cheese mixture (softened cream cheese, sugar, egg yolk, vanilla) and swirl it into the batter before baking for a decadent center.

Nutrition Information

This table provides estimated nutritional information for one serving of the old fashioned pumpkin bread recipe.

Please note: Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods. This information is provided for general guidance and should not be considered medical advice.

FAQ

Find answers to common questions about making this delightful old fashioned pumpkin bread recipe.

• Can I use fresh pumpkin puree? Yes, you can use homemade fresh pumpkin puree, but ensure it’s very thick and well-drained to avoid a watery batter.
• What if my pumpkin bread is too dense? Overmixing the batter is a common cause of dense bread; mix only until the ingredients are just combined.
• How do I know when pumpkin bread is done? Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean, or with only a few moist crumbs clinging to it.
• Can this recipe be made into muffins? Absolutely! Divide the batter into a muffin tin and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes.
• What’s the difference between pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie filling? Pumpkin puree is 100% pure cooked pumpkin, while pie filling contains added sugar, spices, and sometimes other ingredients.
• Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe? You can try reducing the total sugar by up to 1/4 cup without drastically altering the texture, but it may affect the overall flavor balance.
• How do I prevent the top from cracking? Cracking is natural in quick breads due to expansion. To minimize it, ensure your oven temperature is accurate and don’t overbake.

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Conclusion

This old fashioned pumpkin bread recipe is a true autumn delight, combining classic flavors with effortless preparation. It delivers a wonderfully moist, spiced loaf that is perfect for cozy mornings or sharing with loved ones. We encourage you to try this simple recipe and fill your home with its inviting aroma. Share your baking success in the comments below, or rate the recipe to let us know how much you loved it!

Culinary disclaimer

This content is provided for informational purposes only. It does not replace medical advice, professional diagnosis, or personalized treatment.