Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is a delightful treat that captures the essence of fall in every bite. This moist, flavorful pumpkin bread is perfectly spiced, and then it’s slathered with a rich and creamy frosting that takes it to a whole new level. Whether you’re enjoying a cozy breakfast, an afternoon snack, or even a dessert, this recipe is sure to impress.
What Makes Pumpkin Bread Special?
Pumpkin bread is more than just a seasonal delight; it’s a cozy hug in food form. The star ingredient, pumpkin, provides a rich flavor and a lovely moist texture. Not to mention, it’s filled with nutrients and vitamins, making it a more wholesome choice. Each slice is warm, inviting, and perfect for sharing with friends and family.
A Little About Pumpkin
Pumpkin isn’t just for pies or Halloween decorations. This amazing squash is packed with vitamins A and C, antioxidants, and dietary fiber. Using pumpkin puree in your baking not only adds moisture but also infuses a slight sweetness that pairs perfectly with warming spices like cinnamon and nutmeg.
Ingredients for Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting
You won’t need a long shopping list for this delicious pumpkin bread, but your taste buds will thank you for it! Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Pumpkin Bread
- 1 cup pumpkin puree (canned or homemade)
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup apple sauce (or substitute with more oil)
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon allspice (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans, optional)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1/4 cup butter (softened)
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1-2 tablespoons milk (adjust for consistency)
How to Make Pumpkin Bread
Making pumpkin bread is easy, even for beginners! Follow these simple steps to whip up this comforting loaf.
1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your bread bakes evenly.
2: Prepare Your Baking Pan
Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with cooking spray or butter. Alternatively, you can line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix the pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, apple sauce, sugar, brown sugar, and eggs until well combined. This will give you a lovely, smooth base for your bread.
4: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and salt. Make sure to mix well so that the spices are evenly distributed.
5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Slowly add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine!
6: Add Optional Ingredients
If you’re using nuts, fold them into the batter at this point. They add a lovely crunch to your pumpkin bread.
7: Bake
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8: Cool Down
Once baked, allow your pumpkin bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Making the Cream Cheese Frosting
While your pumpkin bread is cooling, it’s the perfect time to whip up that creamy frosting.
Beat Cream Cheese and Butter
In a medium bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and fluffy.
Add Sugar and Vanilla
Gradually add the powdered sugar and mix until combined. Then stir in the vanilla extract. If your frosting is too thick, add a tablespoon of milk to reach your desired consistency.
Frost the Bread
Once your pumpkin bread is completely cool, you can spread the cream cheese frosting on top. Use a spatula or even a knife to make it pretty and swirly!
How to Serve Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting
This luscious pumpkin bread is fantastic on its own, but the cream cheese frosting takes it to a whole new level. Here are a few serving suggestions:
- Slice and Enjoy: Serve thick slices of pumpkin bread straight from the loaf, topped generously with frosting.
- Pair with Coffee: Nothing beats enjoying a slice with a warm cup of coffee or tea.
- Make a Snack Board: Slice the bread, add some fresh fruits, nuts, and maybe even some dark chocolate for an elegant snack board.
- Wrap for Gifts: If you’re feeling generous, wrap some pumpkin bread slices for a charming homemade gift.
Tips for the Best Pumpkin Bread
To ensure your pumpkin bread turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Check the expiration dates on your baking powder and soda. Fresh ingredients yield the best rise.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined to avoid a dense bread.
- Let It Cool Completely: Frosting a warm loaf can melt your cream cheese. Be patient and let it cool.
Storing Your Pumpkin Bread
Storing your pumpkin bread properly will keep it fresh and delicious for days.
Room Temperature
If you plan to eat it quickly, you can store the pumpkin bread at room temperature, covered with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It should stay fresh for 3-4 days.
Refrigeration
For longer storage, place the pumpkin bread in the refrigerator. It can last for about a week there. Make sure to wrap it tightly to prevent it from drying out.
Freezing
You can freeze pumpkin bread if you want to save some for later. Wrap the loaf in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to keep it airtight. It will last up to 3 months in the freezer. Thaw it overnight in the fridge when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
Variations on Pumpkin Bread
Pumpkin bread is versatile; you can tweak the recipe to match your preferences. Here are a few ideas:
Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread
Add 1 cup of chocolate chips to the batter for a sweet twist. The chocolate pairs perfectly with the pumpkin flavor.
Spicy Pumpkin Bread
If you like heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or ginger to your dry ingredients. This adds a spicy kick that complements the spices beautifully.
Gluten-Free Pumpkin Bread
Substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend can yield a great result. Just ensure your baking powder is gluten-free as well.
Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting for Special Occasions
This treat is not just for everyday enjoyment.
- Holiday Gatherings: It’s a great addition to your Thanksgiving or Christmas dessert table.
- Fall Celebrations: Host a fall-themed gathering with pumpkin spice lattes and this bread.
- Potluck Treat: Bring this pumpkin bread to share. It’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Nutritional Benefits of Pumpkin Bread
Here’s a look at some of the nutritional positives of this flavorful loaf:
- Pumpkin Adds Fiber: This is beneficial for digestion and can help you feel fuller.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Pumpkin is rich in vitamins A and C, beneficial for your immune system and skin.
- Moderate Sugar Levels: Unlike many sweets, this recipe has a balance of sugars and wholesome ingredients.