Introduction to Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting
Why Pumpkin Bread is the Ultimate Homemade Treat
Pumpkin bread is not just any fall recipe; it’s a celebration of cozy flavors and heartwarming aromas. It brings together the rich, comforting essence of pumpkin puree with an irresistible blend of spices that tickle your taste buds. Baking a loaf of pumpkin bread fills your kitchen with an inviting scent that has the power to transport you back to childhood memories of festive gatherings.
What makes this recipe even more delightful is the crowning glory—cream cheese frosting. It adds a creamy texture and sweet contrast to the warm, spiced bread, making each slice a little moment of bliss. Whether you’re whipping it up for a brunch with friends or just treating yourself on a quiet weekend, this Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting is sure to impress.
Did you know that pumpkin is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients? It’s rich in vitamins A and C, and its vibrant orange color is a reminder of the autumn harvest. Plus, this versatile bread can easily become a gluten-free or vegan masterpiece with a few simple substitutions!
So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to indulge in this scrumptious treat that will warm your heart and delight your palate.
Ingredients for Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting
Essential ingredients for the pumpkin bread
Creating a delicious pumpkin bread takes just a few simple ingredients. Here's what you'll need:
- All-purpose flour – The foundation of the bread for the perfect texture.
- Baking soda – This leavening agent gives the bread a lovely rise.
- Spices (like cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and cardamom) – These warm flavors create that classic fall taste.
- Salt – Enhances the sweetness of the bread.
- Canola oil – Ensures your bread is moist and tender.
- Granulated sugar and light brown sugar – Combining these sugars adds depth and sweetness.
- Eggs – They provide structure and a lovely richness.
- Canned pumpkin puree – This is the star ingredient, lending both flavor and moisture.
- Vanilla extract – A dash of this adds a lovely aroma.
For more details on each ingredient, check out resources from the Purdue University Food Science department.
Key ingredients for the cream cheese frosting
Now, onto the indulgent cream cheese frosting! You’ll want these key ingredients to craft the perfect topping:
- Cream cheese – Make sure it's at room temperature for easy blending and a smooth texture.
- Unsalted butter – Also at room temperature, it adds richness.
- Vanilla extract – A must-have for that aromatic sweet flavor.
- Powdered sugar – This gives the frosting its sweetness and fluffy consistency.
- Milk – Just a splash to adjust the frosting to your desired spreadability.
This frosting pairs perfectly with your pumpkin bread, adding a delightful creamy contrast to the warm, spiced loaf. For more tips on frosting techniques, consider visiting The Kitchn.
Step-by-step Preparation of Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting
Gather your ingredients
Before you dive into baking the aroma-filled Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting, it’s crucial to gather all your ingredients. This not only helps streamline your process but also prevents any last-minute trips to the grocery store. Here’s what you’ll need:
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For the Pumpkin Bread:
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2 cups (240 g) all-purpose flour
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1 teaspoon (6 g) baking soda
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2 teaspoon (6 g) ground cinnamon
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1 teaspoon ground ginger
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½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
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½ teaspoon ground cloves
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¼ teaspoon ground cardamom
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½ teaspoon salt
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½ cup (118 ml) canola oil
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¾ cup (150 g) granulated sugar
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½ cup (100 g) light brown sugar
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2 large eggs (room temperature)
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1¼ cup (325 g) canned pumpkin puree
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2 teaspoon (10 ml) vanilla extract
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For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
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4 oz. (113 g) cream cheese (room temperature)
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4 tablespoon (57 g) unsalted butter (room temperature)
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1 teaspoon (5 ml) vanilla extract
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1 cup (125 g) powdered sugar
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1-3 teaspoon (5-15 ml) milk (as needed)
Preheat your oven and prepare the loaf pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (170°C). In the meantime, grab a 9x5 loaf pan and line it with parchment paper, ensuring you leave some overhang on two sides. This makes it super easy to lift the bread out once it’s baked.
Mix the dry ingredients together
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, spices (cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and cardamom), and salt. This step not only combines the dry ingredients but also helps distribute the spices evenly, which is essential for that warm flavor profile.
Combine the wet ingredients and mix well
In a separate mixing bowl, combine the canola oil, granulated and brown sugars, pumpkin puree, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk vigorously until everything is well-blended with no lumps. Trust me; this makes a significant difference in texture!
Combine the wet and dry ingredients
Now, take your dry mix and pour it into your wet ingredients. Gently whisk until fully combined, being careful not to overmix. You want a velvety batter that’s neither too thick nor too thin.
Pour the batter and create a crack for presentation
Pour your batter into the prepared loaf pan. Here’s a fun trick: use the tip of a butter knife to drag along the center of the batter on the top, creating a small groove. This little aesthetic touch will give your Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting that professional finish with a lovely crack during baking.
Bake your pumpkin bread
Place your loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 55-65 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center—if it comes out with a few moist crumbs, you’re golden.
Prepare the cream cheese frosting while cooling
Once your bread is baked to perfection, allow it to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. As it cools, make the frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter until fluffy. Add the vanilla, powdered sugar, and a bit of milk to achieve your desired consistency.
Frost the pumpkin bread once cooled
When your pumpkin bread has completely cooled, it’s time for the best part—frosting! Spread or drizzle the cream cheese frosting over the top, and voilà, your delightful Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting is ready to enjoy!
You can indulge in a slice with a cup of hot coffee, or package it up as a delightful gift for a friend. Happy baking! For more delicious ideas, check out sites like Allrecipes or BBC Good Food for inspiration.
Variations on Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting
Nutty Pumpkin Bread Variations
If you’re a fan of texture and flavor, consider adding nuts to your pumpkin bread with cream cheese frosting. Chopped walnuts, pecans, or even a sprinkle of hazelnuts elevate the bread’s richness. A nutty pumpkin bread not only enhances the taste but also adds a delightful crunch. For the adventurous, try adding a mix of seeds for an extra nutrient boost!
Spiced Alternatives and Add-ins
Looking to switch it up? Explore spiced alternatives by incorporating pumpkin pie spice for a robust flavor or experiment with sweet add-ins like chocolate chips or dried cranberries. A hint of orange zest can add a refreshing contrast to the cream cheese frosting, giving your pumpkin bread a bright, seasonal twist. The possibilities are endless, so don’t hesitate to make this recipe your own! For more inspiration, check out Food Network's pumpkin recipes.
Cooking Tips and Notes for Pumpkin Bread
Tips for Achieving the Perfect Texture
To ensure your Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting has that ideal moist and fluffy texture, be careful not to overmix once you combine the wet and dry ingredients. A few lumps are totally fine! Also, remember to measure your flour correctly—spoon it into your measuring cup and level it off to avoid a dense loaf. Don't skip the toothpick test; it should come out with a few moist crumbs, indicating perfect doneness.
Notes on Ingredient Substitutions
If you’re out of certain ingredients, no worries! You can substitute canola oil with melted coconut oil for a richer flavor or use applesauce for a lower-fat version. For a gluten-free option, try a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. You can also swap granulated sugar with maple syrup or honey, but remember to reduce the liquids slightly to balance the batter. For more tips on ingredient substitutions, check out this resource. Happy baking!
Serving Suggestions for Pumpkin Bread
Pairing Ideas with Coffee or Tea
Indulging in Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting is a sensory delight best enjoyed with your favorite beverages. Consider pairing it with a warm cup of spiced chai or a rich, dark roast coffee. The warm spices in the bread harmonize beautifully with these drinks, creating a cozy experience. You might even want to try a pumpkin spice latte for that seasonal synergy! If you prefer tea, opt for a smooth Earl Grey or a subtle green tea, which can balance the sweetness perfectly.
Serving It as a Dessert or Breakfast Treat
This versatile loaves make for a delightful breakfast treat or an after-dinner dessert. Serve it warm for breakfast, perhaps with a side of turkey bacon or fresh fruit for a wholesome morning. For dessert, a slice topped with additional cream cheese frosting can elevate any meal. Whether enjoyed alone or shared with friends at a gathering, this pumpkin bread is sure to impress!
For inspiration on similar recipes and to dive deeper into pumpkin-based treats, check out resources from Serious Eats or Allrecipes. They offer a wealth of ideas for pairing and enhancing your seasonal baking!
Time Breakdown for Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting
Preparation time
Get ready to bake in just 15 minutes! This includes gathering your ingredients, mixing the dry and wet components, and preparing your loaf pan.
Baking time
Pop your Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting in the oven for about 55-65 minutes. This fragrant baking time ensures the bread is perfectly moist and deliciously spiced.
Cooling time
Once baked, allow the bread to cool in the pan for 15 minutes. After that, transfer it to a wire rack and let it cool completely before frosting, which can take an additional 30 minutes.
Total time
In total, you're looking at about 1 hour and 30 minutes from start to finish—including prep, baking, and cooling. Perfect for a weekend project or a cozy weeknight treat!
For more tips and pumpkin bread variations, check out The Spruce Eats or Taste of Home for inspiration.
Nutritional Facts for Pumpkin Bread
When enjoying your slice of Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting, it's helpful to know its nutritional profile. Here’s a quick look:
Calories
Each slice of this delectable pumpkin bread typically contains around 250-300 calories, making it a comforting yet indulgent treat.
Carbohydrates
You'll find roughly 35-40 grams of carbohydrates per slice, providing a nice energy boost perfect for those busy days.
Sugars
This delightful recipe offers about 18-22 grams of sugars per serving, primarily from the natural sweetness of pumpkin and added sugars, creating that irresistible flavor.
For a deeper dive into nutritional values, consider visiting resources like NutritionData or MyFitnessPal for personalized information.
FAQs about Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting
How can I make pumpkin bread more moist?
If you’re aiming for ultra-moist pumpkin bread, consider a few tweaks! Adding an extra ¼ cup of pumpkin puree can enhance moisture while maintaining flavor. Additionally, using a mix of oil and applesauce in your recipe can create a lovely, rich texture. Another trick is to avoid overmixing the batter, as this can toughen the final loaf.
Can I freeze pumpkin bread for later?
Absolutely! Pumpkin bread freezes wonderfully. Wrap the fully cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a zip-top freezer bag. You can enjoy your delicious treat for up to 3 months. When you're ready to savor your Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge.
What are some creative toppings for pumpkin bread?
Aside from the classic cream cheese frosting, you can get creative! Try adding a sprinkle of chopped nuts or toasted coconut for texture. A drizzle of caramel sauce or a dusting of powdered sugar can elevate your treat. For a twist, consider pairing it with a warm maple glaze for an extra layer of flavor!
Conclusion on Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting
The delightful combination of pumpkin bread with cream cheese frosting is perfect for any occasion. With its warm spices and creamy topping, it's a comforting treat that friends and family will love. Whether served at a cozy gathering or enjoyed solo, this recipe is a must-try! For more baking inspiration, check out King Arthur Baking.
Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting
Equipment
- 9x5 loaf pan
- mixing bowls
- Whisk
- electric mixer
- parchment paper
Ingredients
Pumpkin Bread
- 2 cups all purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 0.5 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 0.5 teaspoon ground cloves
- 0.25 teaspoon ground cardamom
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 cup canola oil
- 0.75 cup granulated sugar
- 0.5 cup light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs room temperature
- 1.25 cups canned pumpkin puree
- 2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Cream Cheese Frosting for Pumpkin Bread
- 4 oz cream cheese room temperature
- 4 tablespoon unsalted butter room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1-3 teaspoon milk as needed
Instructions
Pumpkin Bread
- Preheat the oven to 350 F (170 C). Line a 9x5 loaf pan with parchment paper, leaving a bit of overhang on two sides.
- In a large bowl, whisk the flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, cardamom, and salt together until well combined.
- In another large mixing bowl, add the oil, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, pumpkin puree, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk well to fully combine with no visible lumps.
- Add the dry ingredients to the wet. Whisk well to fully combine the dry and wet ingredients. The mixture will look similar to a velvety cake batter.
- Pour the pumpkin batter into the prepared loaf pan. Drag the end of a butter or pairing knife down the center of the batter, just along the top, to create a crack in the bread.
- Bake the bread for 55-65 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Cool the cake in the loaf pan for 15 minutes. Use the parchment sling to lift the bread out of the pan. Cool completely to room temperature.
Cream Cheese Frosting for Pumpkin Bread
- Add the room temperature cream cheese and butter to a large mixing bowl. Beat on medium speed until fluffy and well combined.
- Pour in the vanilla extract, powdered sugar, and 1 teaspoon milk. Beat until smooth and well combined, adding more milk if needed for a glaze-like consistency.
- Spread or drizzle the cream cheese glaze or frosting over the cooled pumpkin bread. Slice and enjoy!
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