Introduction to Spiced Pumpkin Bread
As autumn sweeps in, there’s something incredibly cozy about the scent of spiced pumpkin bread wafting through your kitchen. This delightful treat combines the rich flavor of pumpkin with a medley of spices that evoke the essence of fall—think cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, pumpkin is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients like vitamin A and fiber, making this bread a guilt-free indulgence during the holiday season.
So why is spiced pumpkin bread a fall favorite? For starters, it’s incredibly versatile. Whether enjoyed for breakfast, as a snack, or dessert, this bread satisfies cravings while being simple to make. The comforting spices bring warmth on crisp mornings, and with the added crunch of a streusel topping, it offers a unique texture that elevates the entire experience.
Plus, who doesn’t love a recipe that fills the air with a heavenly aroma? Making this bread can become a lovely tradition shared with family and friends. You might even want to package it up for neighbors or coworkers—everyone appreciates a slice of home-baked goodness! With its delightful flavor and heartwarming qualities, spiced pumpkin bread is sure to become a staple in your fall baking repertoire.
Ingredients for Spiced Pumpkin Bread
When preparing your scrumptious spiced pumpkin bread, gathering the right ingredients is essential for achieving that perfect balance of flavors. Let’s break it down into three delicious components: the streusel topping, the pumpkin bread, and the brown sugar maple glaze.
Ingredients for the streusel topping
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ⅓ cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- ¾ tsp ground cinnamon
The streusel adds a lovely crunch and sweetness to your bread, so don’t skip this vital step!
Ingredients for the pumpkin bread
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 cup pure pumpkin puree (not pie filling)
- ⅓ cup milk
- 2 eggs, room temperature
- ¼ cup canola oil
- 2 tsp vanilla
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ¾ tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp ground ginger
- ¼ tsp allspice
- ½ tsp salt
What’s great about this recipe is that it captures the essence of fall, and who doesn’t love a cozy slice of pumpkin bread?
Ingredients for the brown sugar maple glaze
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- ¼ cup light brown sugar, packed
- 3 tbsp heavy cream
- ½ tbsp maple syrup
- Pinch kosher salt
- ⅔ cup sifted confectioners sugar
This glaze is the cherry on top—or should I say, the drizzle on your loaf! It provides a sweet finish that complements the spices beautifully. For more baking tips and ideas, check out King Arthur Baking.
Are you excited to start baking? Your kitchen is about to smell divine!
Step-by-Step Preparation of Spiced Pumpkin Bread
Are you ready to embark on an aromatic adventure that pairs perfectly with cozy evenings and chilly mornings? Making spiced pumpkin bread is an engaging process that fills your kitchen with delightful scents. Let’s break it down step by step!
Prepare the Loaf Pan and Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures your spiced pumpkin bread bakes evenly. Next, take a 9 x 5 inch loaf pan and spray the bottom and sides with non-stick baking spray. To make extraction easy later, line the pan with parchment paper, leaving about 2 inches of overhang on each side.
Make the Streusel Topping
Your bread deserves a scrumptious topping! Blend together:
- ¼ cup melted unsalted butter
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ⅓ cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- ¾ tsp ground cinnamon
Melt the butter over medium-low heat, allowing it to cool for about 5 minutes after. Combine the dry ingredients in a bowl and add the cooled butter. Mix until crumbly, then refrigerate while you work on the batter, ensuring it stays crisp.
Brown the Butter for the Bread Batter
Browning butter is a game changer! In a small saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Stir occasionally until it turns golden-brown and gives off a nutty aroma, roughly 5 minutes. Pour this into a bowl and let it cool slightly while you gather the other ingredients.
Prepare the Pumpkin Bread Batter
In a mixing bowl, whisk together:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ¾ tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp ground ginger
- ¼ tsp allspice
- ½ tsp salt
Once your browned butter is warm, add 1 cup pure pumpkin puree, ⅓ cup milk, 2 room temperature eggs, ¼ cup canola oil, and 2 tsp vanilla. Mix until combined, then add your dry ingredients, folding gently to avoid overmixing.
Assemble and Bake the Pumpkin Bread
Pour your prepared batter into the loaf pan, then sprinkle the streusel topping evenly across the surface. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs. If the topping starts to brown quickly, tent it with aluminum foil for the last bit of baking. Cool for about 20 minutes in the pan before transferring to a cooling rack.
Prepare the Brown Sugar Maple Glaze
Let’s make it even sweeter! In a saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, then add ¼ cup brown sugar, 3 tablespoons heavy cream, ½ tablespoon maple syrup, and a pinch of kosher salt. Cook for about 5 minutes until thickened, then whisk in ⅔ cup sifted confectioners sugar until smooth.
Glaze, Cool, and Serve the Pumpkin Bread
Drizzle your warm glaze over the slightly cooled bread for that irresistible finish. Make sure to let the bread cool completely for about an hour before slicing into it. The flavors only deepen, making every bite pure bliss.
Enjoy sharing this spiced pumpkin bread with friends and family, or keep it all to yourself – no judgment here! If you want to dive deeper into recipes from around the world, check out this source for endless inspiration. Happy baking!
Variations on Spiced Pumpkin Bread
Nutty Pumpkin Bread Variations
Why limit yourself to just plain spiced pumpkin bread when you can add a delightful crunch? Incorporating nuts like chopped walnuts or pecans can elevate the flavor and texture. Simply fold in about 1 cup of your chosen nuts into the batter for a nutty twist that pairs perfectly with the warmth of pumpkin. Check out this guide to nuts for insights on their health benefits.
Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread
Feeling indulgent? Consider adding chocolate chips to your spiced pumpkin bread for a decadent treat. A cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips folded into the batter brings a rich, sweet contrast to the pumpkin spices. This variation is perfect for dessert or a sweet snack in the afternoon. If you want to balance the richness, try using dark chocolate chips, which can add depth without being overly sweet.
Cooking Tips and Notes for Spiced Pumpkin Bread
Importance of Room Temperature Ingredients
Using room temperature ingredients is crucial for the success of your spiced pumpkin bread. When ingredients like eggs and milk are at room temperature, they blend more easily, creating a smoother batter and ensuring even baking. Pro tip: take them out of the fridge about 30 minutes before you start mixing!
How to Avoid Soggy Bread
To ensure your bread isn’t soggy, be mindful of the pumpkin puree. Use pure pumpkin puree and be cautious not to add any excess moisture. Also, avoid overmixing the batter, which can lead to a dense texture. Finally, bake until a toothpick comes out with just a few moist crumbs—this will keep your pumpkin bread perfectly tender and not soggy!
For more great insights, check out The Kitchn for helpful baking tips!
Serving Suggestions for Spiced Pumpkin Bread
Pairing with Coffee or Tea
Nothing elevates your spiced pumpkin bread experience quite like a warm cup of coffee or herbal tea. The flavors of cinnamon and nutmeg in the bread perfectly complement the rich, robust notes of coffee, while a soothing chai or rooibos tea enhances its spices beautifully. Imagine curling up with a slice, savoring each bite alongside your favorite beverage.
Adding Cream Cheese Spread
Looking to take your spiced pumpkin bread to the next level? Slathering a creamy, tangy cream cheese spread onto a warm slice creates a divine contrast that brings out the bread's sweetness and spices. You could even add a touch of maple syrup or honey to the spread for an extra flavor punch. It’s an indulgent treat that makes for a perfect brunch or cozy afternoon snack.
For more coffee pairings, check out Coffee Affection. For great cream cheese spread ideas, visit The Kitchn.
Time Breakdown for Spiced Pumpkin Bread
Preparation Time
The preparation for this delightful spiced pumpkin bread takes about 20-25 minutes. You'll be mixing ingredients, making the streusel topping, and prepping your loaf pan.
Baking Time
Allow 45-50 minutes for baking. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs—perfection!
Total Time
In total, you’re looking at about 1 hour and 15 minutes from start to finish. A small investment for a warm, cozy treat that’s perfect for any season! Want to know more about pumpkin bread? Check out this article for pumpkin fun facts!
For a more comprehensive cooking experience, feel free to visit resources like Epicurious for additional tips and tricks on baking!
Nutritional Facts for Spiced Pumpkin Bread
When you indulge in this delightful spiced pumpkin bread, you’re not just savoring rich flavors; you’re also getting a nutritious treat. Here’s a quick breakdown of its nutritional content:
Total Calories
The entire loaf contains between 2700-3000 calories, making it a hearty choice for a special occasion or family gathering.
Protein Content
Packed with 28-34 grams of protein, this bread provides a decent protein boost, helping you feel full and satisfied.
Fats and Carbohydrates
With approximately 130-150 grams of fat and 375-410 grams of carbohydrates, this bread balances richness with energy, thanks to the wholesome ingredients like pumpkin puree and butter.
If you're interested in boosting the nutritional value even further, consider adding nuts or seeds to your batter for extra crunch and nutrients! For more tips on healthy eating, check out resources like Harvard Health for research-backed advice.
FAQs about Spiced Pumpkin Bread
Can I make this pumpkin bread gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make spiced pumpkin bread gluten-free, simply substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Look for a blend that includes xanthan gum, which will help give the bread structure. Many brands like Bob's Red Mill and King Arthur Flour offer excellent options.
How should I store the leftover pumpkin bread?
To keep your spiced pumpkin bread fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store it at room temperature for up to three days. If you want it to last longer, consider refrigerating it in an airtight container to preserve moisture and flavor.
Can I freeze spiced pumpkin bread?
Yes, you can definitely freeze your spiced pumpkin bread. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it at room temperature or pop it in the microwave for a quick reheat!
For more tips on baking and preserving baked goods, check out resources like Serious Eats or BBC Good Food.
Conclusion on Spiced Pumpkin Bread
In conclusion, this spiced pumpkin bread with streusel topping is not just a delightful treat for your taste buds but also a perfect addition to your fall baking repertoire. Its warm flavors and comforting texture make it an ideal choice for any gathering or a cozy night in. Enjoy baking!
Spiced Pumpkin Bread with Streusel Topping: The Best Homemade Delight
Equipment
- 9 x 5 inch loaf pan
- small saucepan
- medium bowl
- Small bowl
- Whisk
- Spatula
Ingredients
Streusel Topping
- ¼ cup unsalted butter melted
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ⅓ cup light brown sugar packed
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- ¾ teaspoon ground cinnamon
Pumpkin Bread
- 4 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 cup pure pumpkin puree not pie filling
- ⅓ cup milk
- 2 large eggs room temperature
- ¼ cup canola oil
- 2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup light brown sugar packed
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ¾ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
- ¼ teaspoon allspice
- ½ teaspoon salt
Brown Sugar Maple Glaze
- 2 tablespoon unsalted butter
- ¼ cup light brown sugar packed
- 3 tablespoon heavy cream
- ½ tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 pinch kosher salt
- ⅔ cup sifted confectioners sugar
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray the loaf pan with non-stick baking spray and line it with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, mix the streusel ingredients until crumbly and refrigerate.
- Brown the butter for the bread batter and let it cool.
- In a separate bowl, whisk dry pumpkin bread ingredients. Combine with the wet ingredients and mix gently.
- Pour the batter into the loaf pan and sprinkle the streusel on top. Bake for 45-50 minutes.
- While baking, prepare the glaze by heating the butter, sugar, cream, syrup, and salt. Whisk in confectioners sugar until smooth.
- Drizzle the glaze over the warm bread and cool for at least 1 hour before slicing.
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