How to Make Old-Fashioned Pumpkin Bread Perfectly Every Time

There’s something incredibly comforting about the smell of warm pumpkin bread wafting through the house, isn’t there? As the leaves turn and the air gets crisp, I find myself craving this classic treat more than ever. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Old-Fashioned Pumpkin Bread that’s not only delicious but also easy to make. Perfect for those busy weeknights when you want to whip up something special, this recipe is a delightful addition to your collection of easy pasta recipes and quick family dinners!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• It’s a classic recipe that brings back memories of cozy fall days.
• Simple ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry.
• Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert!
• Can be made ahead and stored for later enjoyment.
• Pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea.

Ingredients

To make this scrumptious Old-Fashioned Pumpkin Bread, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour (plus 2 tablespoons divided)
• ½ tablespoon ground cinnamon
• ¾ teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon ground cloves
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• ¾ cup dark brown sugar (packed)
• 2 large eggs (beaten)
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup chopped pecans

Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.

How to Make the Recipe

Now, let’s get to the fun part—making the bread! Follow these simple steps:

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and prep a 9×5 loaf pan with parchment paper.
2. In a small bowl, add the chopped pecans and 2 tablespoons of flour, mix, then set aside until the end.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon, baking powder, salt, ground cloves, and ground nutmeg. Set this aside.
4. In a large bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, and dark brown sugar. Blend together with a spatula or a hand mixer until smooth.
5. Add in the beaten eggs and vanilla extract, mixing again until fully incorporated.
6. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
7. Gently fold in the pecans, then pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan.
8. Bake for 55 minutes or until the top springs back when touched.
9. Allow the bread to cool for 20 minutes on a rack before slicing.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Here are some of my favorite tips to ensure your pumpkin bread turns out perfectly every time:

• Make sure your ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing.
• Don’t overmix the batter; it’s okay if there are a few lumps!
• For an extra touch, sprinkle some cinnamon sugar on top before baking.
• Feel free to substitute walnuts for pecans if you prefer.
• For a fun twist, add chocolate chips or dried cranberries to the batter!

How to Serve

This Old-Fashioned Pumpkin Bread is delightful on its own, but here are some serving suggestions to elevate your experience:

• Spread a little butter or cream cheese on warm slices.
• Pair it with a hot cup of coffee or a spiced chai tea.
• Serve it as a dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
• Slice it up for a cozy brunch with friends or family.

Make Ahead and Storage

This pumpkin bread is perfect for making ahead of time! Here’s how to store it:

• Wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, freeze the bread. Just make sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer!
• To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm it up in the oven for a few minutes.

So there you have it! A delightful recipe for Old-Fashioned Pumpkin Bread that’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re looking for weeknight dinner ideas or just a cozy treat to enjoy, this bread is the perfect solution. And if you’re in the mood for something savory, don’t forget to check out my Beef Cheesy Rollups or Ground Beef Stroganoff for quick family dinners. Happy baking!