Pumpkin Bread

The first time I baked pumpkin bread from Libby’s classic recipe, it wasn’t just about filling the kitchen with cinnamon-spiced air — it was about recreating the feeling of home. My kids were bundled in fleece pajamas, fog clung to the windows, and the smell of nutmeg and canned pumpkin took me right back to my grandmother’s North Carolina kitchen. One bite of this moist, rich loaf, and everyone at the table swore it was fall’s best kept secret.

This pumpkin bread is more than a recipe — it’s a tradition. It comes together with just a few pantry staples and a generous scoop of pumpkin, baked until golden and aromatic. Whether you’re slicing it up for breakfast, wrapping it for neighbors, or sneaking a warm bite before bed, it delivers that perfect hug-in-a-loaf feeling we all crave this time of year.

Let’s make memories one bite at a time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pumpkin bread is all about warmth, comfort, and simplicity. It bakes up moist and tender, with a perfectly spiced crumb that’s sweet but not too sugary. You’ll love how it fills your home with cozy autumn aromas — the kind that make guests peek into the kitchen with curiosity.

It’s beginner-friendly and quick, ready in about 40 minutes total. Whether you use mini loaf pans, a standard tin, or even a muffin tray, this recipe adapts beautifully to your needs. You don’t need fancy tools either — just a mixing bowl and a spoon (or an electric hand mixer if you’re feeling speedy).

This recipe also doubles wonderfully for gift-giving. Wrapped in parchment and tied with twine, your pumpkin bread will look like something straight out of a farmhouse bakery.

Best of all? It’s incredibly versatile. Serve it warm for breakfast, sliced with butter as an afternoon snack, or dressed up with cream cheese frosting for dessert.

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Ingredient Overview

If fall had a flavor, this pumpkin bread would be it. Earthy canned pumpkin meets aromatic spices, and just the right amount of sweetness brings it all together.

• All-purpose flour: Gives the loaf structure while keeping the texture tender.

• Granulated sugar: Adds balanced sweetness without being overpowering.

• Baking soda: Leavens the batter, ensuring a light rise.

• Salt: Enhances flavor and balances the sweetness.

• Ground cinnamon & nutmeg: These two are the soul of every good pumpkin bread — warming, fragrant, and oh-so-cozy.

• Oil: Keeps the crumb moist for days. Use vegetable or canola for a neutral base.

• Eggs: Bind the ingredients and create structure.

• Water: A little splash brings everything together without over-thinning.

• Canned pumpkin: The star! Rich, smooth, and packed with autumn flavor.

Tip: Garnish the top with a sprinkle of raw sugar or chopped pecans before baking for a bakery-style finish.

Step-by-step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Set your oven to 350°F. A steady, even bake is key to perfectly moist pumpkin bread every time.

Step 2: Mix Your Dry Ingredients

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This aromatic blend is what gives pumpkin bread its cozy flavor.

Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients

To the same bowl, pour in the oil, eggs, and water. Use an electric hand mixer or a sturdy spoon and mix until just combined — no over-mixing, y’all!

Step 4: Fold in the Pumpkin

Gently fold in that rich canned pumpkin. It gives the loaf its signature texture and autumn color.
Tip: Use a rubber spatula to make sure you scrape down the sides of the bowl thoroughly.

Step 5: Grease and Fill Your Pans

Grease 4 mini loaf pans (or 1 large loaf pan if you prefer). Divide the batter evenly. This recipe also works beautifully in a muffin tray for quick pumpkin bread muffins!

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

For mini loaves, bake for 30–35 minutes. A full-size loaf takes about 55 minutes. You’ll know your pumpkin bread is done when a toothpick comes out clean from the center.

Step 7: Cool and Enjoy

Let it rest in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack. Once it’s fully cooled (or still slightly warm, if you’re impatient like me), slice and enjoy!

Now that your dish is coming together beautifully, let’s explore some pro tips and creative variations!

Pro Tips

For bakery-style pumpkin bread, try sprinkling coarse sugar on top before baking — it creates a subtle crunch that’s irresistible.

If you want to freeze your pumpkin bread, wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. It stays fresh for up to 3 months and reheats beautifully in the toaster oven.

Don’t skip the spices. Cinnamon and nutmeg give this pumpkin bread its soul. Want to level it up? Add a pinch of ground cloves or ginger for deeper flavor.

Always let your pumpkin bread cool completely before slicing. It helps the crumb set and makes for cleaner cuts — patience pays off.

If you’re baking mini loaves, reduce the bake time to about 30 minutes and check with a toothpick. And if you love pumpkin treats, you’ll adore this Pumpkin Muffin Recipe as a quick grab-and-go breakfast.

Variations

Turn this classic into a fall dessert centerpiece by drizzling cream cheese glaze over the cooled pumpkin bread. It adds a luxurious touch and looks stunning on a brunch table.

For a nutty twist, fold in ½ cup of chopped pecans or walnuts before baking. They add crunch and warmth, perfect for cozy mornings.

Want to make it lighter? Swap half the oil with applesauce. It still delivers that rich pumpkin bread texture with a slightly lower fat content.

Feeling bold? Add mini chocolate chips — about ¾ cup — for a dessert-style treat that’s wildly popular with kids (and let’s be honest, adults too).

If you’re looking for more fall favorites, this Pumpkin Desserts roundup is full of inspiration for your next bake.

Frequently Asked Questions

Serving Suggestions

There’s something magical about slicing into warm pumpkin bread on a chilly morning. Pair it with a creamy chai latte, or go classic with black coffee. If you’re hosting brunch, serve it alongside scrambled eggs and fresh fruit for a balanced, cozy spread. For fall gatherings, try cutting the loaf into thick wedges and offering flavored butters — cinnamon honey or maple pecan are always a hit. We also love serving it as part of a rustic dessert board with Easy Fall Desserts like cookies and dipped pretzels.

Conclusion

Baking pumpkin bread isn’t just about the loaf — it’s about the comfort, the scent, and the shared slices around the table. Whether you’re making it for family, gifting it to friends, or freezing a loaf for future cravings, this recipe brings warmth and joy to every bite. And if you’re already dreaming of your next pumpkin bake, don’t miss our Pumpkin French Toast Casserole — it’s a weekend winner!

We’d love to see your version of this cozy pumpkin bread! Try it, leave a comment below, and tag your loaf photos on Pinterest (they’re open in a new tab — we’ll be cheering you on from our kitchen). From spiced-up variations to your favorite toppings, your twist makes this recipe even better.

Gather around the table — something delicious is waiting!