Spicy Pumpkin Bread
A warmly spiced pumpkin bread bursting with nutmeg, cinnamon, and cloves. Moist, easy to bake, and naturally flavorful, this bread is perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. Packed with fiber and plant-based fats, it’s a wholesome treat that keeps well and satisfies every sweet craving.
Equipment
- 1 × 5×9-inch loaf pan
- 1 × large mixing bowl
- 1 × whisk or spoon for mixing
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 2 large eggs well beaten
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- ½ cup water
- ¼ teaspoon baking powder
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves
- 2 teaspoons ground nutmeg
- 1 cup canned pumpkin
- 1 ⅔ cups sifted all-purpose flour
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Begin by setting your oven to 325°F (163°C). Preheating ensures that the pumpkin bread bakes evenly from the moment it goes in. While the oven warms, prepare your loaf pan and gather all ingredients so the baking process flows smoothly. Proper preheating is essential for achieving a tender, moist interior and a lightly golden crust.
- Prepare the Loaf Pan: Grease a 5×9-inch loaf pan thoroughly with butter, oil, or nonstick spray. Be sure to cover all corners to prevent sticking. For extra insurance, lightly dust the pan with flour. This preparation allows the bread to release cleanly and maintain its perfect shape after baking.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Sifting breaks up any lumps, ensures even spice distribution, and contributes to a light, airy texture. Whisk the mixture thoroughly so that each bite of bread has consistent flavor and rise.
- Mix Wet Ingredients Separately: In another medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, vegetable oil, sugar, water, and canned pumpkin until smooth. Make sure the eggs are well beaten to incorporate air, which helps make the bread light and tender. The pumpkin adds moisture and natural sweetness, while the oil enriches the texture.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring gently with a spatula or wooden spoon. Mix only until just combined to avoid overworking the batter, which can result in a dense loaf. Scrape the sides and bottom of the bowl to ensure there are no pockets of flour remaining.
- Transfer Batter to Pan: Carefully pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly from corner to corner and smooth the top. This step helps the bread bake uniformly and promotes a nicely domed, attractive top.
- Bake the Pumpkin Bread: Place the loaf pan on the center rack of the preheated oven. Bake for 90 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Avoid opening the oven repeatedly, as temperature fluctuations can cause the loaf to sink.
- Cool the Bread: After baking, remove the pan from the oven and allow the bread to cool for 10–15 minutes in the pan. Then transfer it carefully to a wire rack to cool completely. Proper cooling ensures the interior sets and prevents the bread from becoming soggy.
- Slice and Serve: Once fully cooled, use a sharp bread knife to cut the loaf into 12 even slices. Serve warm or at room temperature. The aromatic spices create a cozy, inviting scent that enhances the eating experience.
- Enjoy or Store: Savor a slice immediately or store the remaining bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3–4 days. For longer storage, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Proper storage keeps the bread moist, flavorful, and ready to enjoy anytime.
Notes
- Use canned pumpkin puree for consistent moisture and flavor; fresh pumpkin can be substituted if cooked and mashed properly.
- Make sure eggs are at room temperature for better incorporation into the batter.
- Accurately measure flour by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off—too much flour can make the bread dense.
- Spices can be adjusted to taste; increase nutmeg or cloves slightly for a more intense aroma.
- Avoid overmixing after combining wet and dry ingredients to maintain a tender, light texture.
- Baking times may vary slightly depending on your oven; always check doneness with a toothpick in the center.
- Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing for clean, even pieces.
