It always starts with the smell. That unmistakable scent of cinnamon, nutmeg, and something just a little sweet drifting from the kitchen. It’s the kind of smell that makes you stop in your tracks, close your eyes, and breathe a little deeper. That’s when you know pumpkin bread is baking.
But here’s the thing: this isn’t just any pumpkin bread recipe. This is the one that turned an ordinary October morning into a quiet moment of joy. It’s the one I baked when I had a little leftover canned pumpkin and needed something soft, comforting, and soul-soothing. A simple loaf that made my whole house smell like home.
Whether you’re new to baking or just need an easy pumpkin bread recipe that works every time, this one will win hearts and taste buds with its moist crumb, warm spices, and just the right touch of sweetness.
Table of Contents
What Makes This Pumpkin Bread Recipe So Special
There are a million pumpkin bread recipes out there, but this one? It’s perfectly balanced. It’s soft without being mushy, sweet but not cake-like, and full of warm spice without overpowering the pumpkin. And the best part? No mixers, no fuss just one bowl and a spoon.
This is an easy pumpkin bread recipe that relies on pantry staples and comes together in under 10 minutes of prep. It’s the kind of bake that invites you to slow down, put on a cozy sweater, and make something for the simple joy of it.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you need to make this beloved loaf:
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour – The base of the bread
- 1 teaspoon baking soda – For rise
- ½ teaspoon baking powder – Adds extra lift
- ½ teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves – Optional but adds richness
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree – Be sure it’s 100% pumpkin, not pie filling
- ¾ cup brown sugar – Adds depth and moisture
- ½ cup granulated sugar – For sweetness and texture
- ½ cup vegetable oil – Keeps the loaf moist
- 2 large eggs – For binding and texture
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional add-ins: chocolate chips, walnuts, or pecans
Tip: If you’re wondering how to make pumpkin bread recipe healthier, you can sub in half whole wheat flour or reduce the sugar slightly without sacrificing flavor.
How to Make Pumpkin Bread Recipe Step-by-Step
How to Make Pumpkin Bread (So Easy, So Good)
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a standard 9×5-inch loaf pan or line with parchment paper.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
- Add wet ingredients: Stir in the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, granulated sugar, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until just combined, do not overmix!
- Optional: Fold in chocolate chips or nuts.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
- Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Helpful Tips & Variations
- Use canned pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling (which contains added sugar and spices).
- Don’t overmix the batter, this helps keep the bread soft and tender.
- Add-ins like mini chocolate chips, chopped pecans, or dried cranberries add texture and flavor.
- Make it gluten-free by using a 1:1 all-purpose gluten-free flour blend.
- Want a bakery-style loaf? Sprinkle the top with coarse sugar before baking for a crunchy crust.
What to Serve With Pumpkin Bread
Pumpkin bread is a cozy treat on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with:
- A warm mug of chai tea or coffee
- A swipe of softened cream cheese or butter
- Fresh fruit or a fall-inspired smoothie
- A drizzle of maple syrup or honey for an extra treat
Storage & Reheating Tips
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.
- Refrigerate to keep it fresh longer (up to 7 days).
- Freeze individual slices wrapped in parchment and sealed in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
- Reheat by toasting or microwaving a slice for 10 to 15 seconds to bring back that just-baked warmth.
More desserts and cakes that you will love
- No Bake Blueberry Cheesecake
- Cinnamon Roll Blondies
- Nova Scotia Blueberry Cream Cake
- Strawberry Cream Cheese Chili Pie
- Homemade Lemon Drops
- Chocolate Dipped Strawberries
- Dubai chocolate bar

Conclusion
Pumpkin bread is more than just a seasonal treat, it’s a little act of comfort, a memory in the making, and a delicious reason to slow down. Whether you’re baking for yourself, your family, or just because your kitchen could use a little extra love, this pumpkin bread recipe is here for you.
If you try it, I’d love to hear what you think! Leave a comment, rate the recipe, and make sure you Follow us on Facebook. Happy baking, friend.
FAQs About Pumpkin Bread Recipe
What makes a good pumpkin bread?
A good pumpkin bread is moist, tender, and balanced in spice. It should have a soft crumb, not be overly sweet, and use real pumpkin for authentic flavor.
Why does my pumpkin bread have no flavor?
It might be under-spiced. Pumpkin itself is mild, so don’t skip the cinnamon, nutmeg, or cloves. Also, be sure to use 100% canned pumpkin, not diluted blends.
What is the difference between 100% canned pumpkin and pumpkin puree?
They’re often the same! Just make sure the can says 100% pure pumpkin. Pumpkin pie filling has added sugar and spices and should not be used in this recipe.
What are the ingredients in Starbucks pumpkin loaf?
Starbucks uses flour, pumpkin, sugar, eggs, oil, and spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, very similar to this easy pumpkin bread recipe, minus the preservatives!