Best Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bread Recipe

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There’s something irresistibly cozy about the Best Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bread—a moist, warmly spiced loaf that brings the essence of autumn right into your kitchen. Bursting with rich pumpkin flavor and an enchanting swirl of cinnamon sugar topping, this bread offers a tender crumb balanced by just the right hint of sweetness and spice. Whether you’re baking it for a crisp fall morning or an afternoon treat with tea, this recipe captures all the comforting vibes you crave. Trust me, once you try this Best Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bread, it will quickly become your go-to autumn indulgence.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients come together in the simplest way but are absolutely essential to create the perfect flavor and texture for your loaf. Each element—from the blend of spices to the pumpkin puree—plays a unique role to make sure your bread turns out moist, flavorful, and perfectly tender.

• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure and a tender crumb to the bread.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Adds just the right level of sweetness and helps with browning.
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed: Brings moisture and a subtle caramel note to deepen the flavor.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the bread rise and gives a nice lightness to the crumb.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: Works with baking soda to ensure proper leavening.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances all the sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: The star spice that gives this bread its signature warm, sweet aroma.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds a hint of earthiness and depth.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger: Brings a gentle warmth to the spice blend.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves: Infuses a subtle, rich spiciness that complements pumpkin beautifully.
• 3/4 cup canned pumpkin puree: Delivers moisture and that unmistakable pumpkin flavor.
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil: Keeps the bread moist and tender without overpowering flavor.
• 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients and add richness.
• 1/4 cup milk: Lightens the batter and adds a creamy texture.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors with a sweet, floral note.
• 3 tablespoons granulated sugar (for topping): Creates a crunchy, caramelized crust when baked.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for topping): Adds a final aromatic touch that’s visually and flavorfully inviting.

How to Make Best Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bread

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures it’s hot and ready for baking when your batter is assembled. Lightly grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter, then dust it with flour to prevent sticking. This simple prep step sets you up for a flawless release after baking.

Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. Mixing the dry ingredients first allows the spices and leavening agents to distribute evenly throughout the batter so every bite bursts with flavor and rises perfectly.

Step 3: Whisk the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, eggs, milk, and vanilla extract. This mixture will be smooth and rich, acting as the flavorful base that unites all the dry ingredients into a luscious batter.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir gently just until combined; a few lumps are completely fine here. The key is not to overmix, as this helps keep the bread tender and soft instead of dense or tough.

Step 5: Prepare the Topping and Pour Batter

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared loaf pan. In a small bowl, mix the 3 tablespoons of granulated sugar with 1 teaspoon cinnamon, then sprinkle this mixture generously over the top of the batter. This topping will create the iconic, crunchy cinnamon sugar crust that sets this pumpkin bread apart.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake the bread for 55 to 65 minutes. Start checking at 55 minutes by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, it’s done. The aroma filling your kitchen at this stage will tell you you’re on the right track!

Step 7: Cool and Enjoy

Let the loaf rest in the pan for about 10 minutes—it’ll be delicate while warm. Gently turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely, which helps set the crumb and makes slicing easier. Enjoying a slice warm or cooled with coffee is like a little slice of pumpkin heaven.

How to Serve Best Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bread

Garnishes

A simple spread of softened butter or cream cheese pairs wonderfully with this bread, highlighting its spicy sweetness. For a special touch, drizzle a little honey or maple syrup on top, or sprinkle chopped toasted pecans for added crunch and flavor dimension.

Side Dishes

This bread shines as a morning treat alongside a steaming cup of coffee, chai, or hot apple cider. It also makes a delightful dessert when paired with vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a savory contrast, serve slices with a sharp cheddar cheese for a surprisingly delightful combination.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut the bread into thick slices and serve as mini sandwiches with nut butters or mascarpone and fruit preserves. Alternatively, transform leftovers into French toast for a memorable twist on breakfast. Wrapping slices in parchment tied with twine makes for adorable grab-and-go gifts for friends and family.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once completely cool, store your pumpkin bread wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay moist and delicious for up to 3 days. If your kitchen is warm, keeping it in the fridge can extend freshness up to a week without drying out.

Freezing

Best Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bread freezes beautifully! Wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil or place in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. You can also slice before freezing to grab individual servings whenever a craving hits, making future enjoyment quick and easy.

Reheating

Warm slices gently in a toaster oven or microwave for 15-20 seconds to revive that fresh-baked feel. Add a spread of butter, and you’ll have a comforting snack that tastes like it just came out of the oven.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?

Absolutely! If using fresh pumpkin, roast and puree it until smooth, then drain excess moisture to match the texture of canned pumpkin puree. This ensures your bread doesn’t turn out too wet and maintains the proper balance of ingredients for the Best Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bread.

What can I substitute for vegetable oil?

You can replace vegetable oil with melted coconut oil or even a neutral-flavored olive oil to keep the bread moist. Just be mindful that oils with stronger flavors may subtly change the bread’s overall taste.

Is it possible to make this bread gluten-free?

Yes, by swapping the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend developed for baking, you can enjoy a gluten-free version. Just make sure your blend includes xanthan gum or another binding agent for best results.

How do I know when the bread is fully baked?

The best test is the toothpick method: insert a toothpick into the center of the bread, and if it comes out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs, the bread is done. You want to avoid a totally wet batter on the toothpick but don’t wait until it’s dry as that means the bread may be overbaked.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?

Definitely! Adding 1/2 to 3/4 cup of chopped walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips is a popular variation. Fold them into the batter after mixing the wet and dry ingredients to distribute evenly without overmixing.

Final Thoughts

There’s truly something special about the Best Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bread that fills your home with warmth and coziness, making every bite a seasonal celebration. Whether you bake it for yourself or to share with loved ones, this bread promises to bring comfort and joy. So, grab your ingredients, preheat that oven, and experience the magic of this wonderful autumn classic firsthand. I promise it’ll become one of your favorite fall recipes to cherish year after year.

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