Introduction

As the leaves start to change color and the air becomes crisp, there's something undeniably comforting about baking. One of the most cherished autumn recipes is pumpkin bread, a treat that embodies the rich flavors of the season. This moist, flavorful bread is complemented beautifully by a tangy cream cheese frosting that elevates it from delicious to irresistible.

Perfect for a cozy morning treat or an afternoon snack, this pumpkin bread with cream cheese frosting brings warmth and cheer to any gathering. The vibrant pumpkin puree not only infuses the bread with flavor but also maintains its moisture, creating a delightful texture that pairs perfectly with the indulgent frosting. Whether enjoyed alone or shared with loved ones, this recipe promises to be a seasonal favorite.

Ingredients

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
All-purpose flour provides the structure for the pumpkin bread. It absorbs moisture and allows the bread to rise beautifully, creating a tender crumb that melts in your mouth.
1 teaspoon baking soda
Baking soda acts as a leavening agent, helping the bread to rise. It creates air pockets within the batter, resulting in a light and airy texture.
½ teaspoon baking powder
Baking powder works alongside baking soda to ensure a perfect rise. This dual action helps the bread maintain its height while remaining soft.
½ teaspoon salt
Salt enhances the overall flavor of the pumpkin bread, balancing the sweetness of the sugar and other ingredients. It plays a crucial role in developing the bread's taste.
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Cinnamon adds a warm, spicy flavor that complements the pumpkin perfectly. Its aromatic qualities evoke a cozy ambiance, ideal for autumn.
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
Nutmeg offers a unique depth of flavor to the bread, rounding out the spices and adding a subtle earthiness that pairs beautifully with pumpkin.
1 cup granulated sugar
Sugar sweetens the bread and contributes to its moistness. It caramelizes during baking, creating a lovely golden crust that enhances its appeal.
½ cup packed brown sugar
Brown sugar introduces a hint of caramel flavor and additional moisture due to its molasses content. This enriches the bread's texture and taste.
½ cup vegetable oil
Vegetable oil provides moisture and tenderness to the bread, ensuring a soft texture throughout. It also helps the bread stay fresh longer.
2 large eggs
Eggs act as a binding agent, helping to hold the ingredients together. They also contribute to the bread's structure and provide richness.
1 cup pumpkin puree
Pumpkin puree is the star of this recipe, providing moisture, flavor, and a vibrant orange hue that makes the bread visually appealing.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Vanilla extract adds a sweet and aromatic flavor that complements the spices in the bread and enhances its overall sweetness.
8 oz cream cheese
Cream cheese forms the base of the frosting, adding rich flavor and making it creamy and spreadable. It balances the sweetness from the powdered sugar.
2 cups powdered sugar
Powdered sugar sweetens and thickens the cream cheese frosting, giving it a rich texture that beautifully contrasts with the bread.
1 tablespoon milk
Milk is used to adjust the consistency of the cream cheese frosting, making it easy to spread while ensuring it remains fluffy and smooth.
1 teaspoon lemon juice
Lemon juice adds a hint of acidity to the frosting, brightening the flavors and offsetting the sweetness of the cream cheese.

Directions & Preparation

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

Preheating the oven is crucial for even baking. It ensures that the pumpkin bread starts cooking immediately when placed inside, which helps it rise properly and develop a perfect texture.

Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.

Whisking the dry ingredients together ensures they are evenly distributed. This step prevents clumping and guarantees that every bite of the bread has a consistent flavor and texture.

Step 3: In another bowl, combine granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil.

Mixing the sugars and oil separately allows for better integration, creating a homogeneous mixture that helps the sugars dissolve and blend into the batter for even sweetness.

Step 4: Add eggs, pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract to the sugar mixture, and mix well until smooth.

Incorporating the wet ingredients into the sugar mixture adds moisture and richness to the batter. Mixing until smooth ensures there are no lumps, creating a cohesive batter.

Step 5: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.

Combining the dry and wet ingredients should be done carefully to avoid overmixing, which can lead to a dense bread. Stirring until just combined keeps the batter airy for a light texture.

Step 6: Pour the batter into a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan and smooth the top.

Greasing the loaf pan is essential to ensure the bread releases easily after baking. Smoothing the top creates an even surface that looks appealing once baked.

Step 7: Bake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Baking for the right amount of time is critical for achieving the perfect texture. Testing with a toothpick helps you determine doneness; it should come out clean or with a few crumbs attached.

Step 8: Remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.

Allowing the bread to cool slightly in the pan helps it set and makes it easier to remove. Transferring to a wire rack ensures even cooling, preventing moisture from accumulating on the bottom.

Step 9: While the bread cools, prepare the cream cheese frosting by beating the cream cheese until smooth.

Beating the cream cheese first ensures a creamy texture, which makes the frosting easier to spread. This step prevents any lumps from forming, creating a luscious frosting.

Step 10: Gradually add the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and milk, mixing until the frosting is fluffy.

Slowly adding the powdered sugar helps maintain the desired sweetness without overwhelming the cream cheese. Adjusting with lemon juice and milk creates the perfect consistency for spreading.

Step 11: Once the bread is completely cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting on top.

Frosting the bread only after it has cooled prevents the frosting from melting and losing its texture. A generous layer of frosting adds rich flavor and a beautiful presentation.

Step 12: Slice and serve your pumpkin bread with cream cheese frosting.

Cutting the bread into slices reveals its enticing texture and inviting color. Serving fresh slices with a dollop of frosting promises a delightful treat for everyone.

Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting step photo

The Magic of Pumpkin Puree

Pumpkin puree is the essence of this seasonal bread, not just for its flavor but also for its structural benefits. Its natural moisture content not only enriches the bread but also prevents it from drying out. When choosing pumpkin puree, opt for pure, 100% canned pumpkin to get the best texture and taste. This essential ingredient allows the warmth of spices to shine through, creating a deeply flavorful experience.

Creating the Perfect Cream Cheese Frosting

Cream cheese frosting can elevate any baked good, and this recipe is no exception. The combination of cream cheese with powdered sugar and a touch of lemon juice creates a sweet yet tangy spread that complements the spiced pumpkin perfectly. For best results, allow your cream cheese to reach room temperature before mixing, as this helps achieve a fluffy, creamy consistency that is easily spreadable and luxurious.

The Joy of Homemade Pumpkin Bread

Baking pumpkin bread from scratch is a rewarding experience that fills your home with the comforting scents of autumn. It's a perfect recipe for home cooks looking to embrace seasonal flavors in a simple yet delicious way. Whether served at breakfast, as an afternoon snack, or dessert, this bread caters to every occasion and brings warmth to gatherings. Each slice offers a delightful reminder of the joys of homemade baking.

FAQs

What if my pumpkin bread feels too dense?

If your pumpkin bread turns out dense, it may be due to overmixing the batter or over-measuring the flour. Ensure you mix until just combined and properly measure your flour for optimal lightness.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin, but it needs to be cooked and pureed until smooth. Ensure that excess moisture is removed to avoid altering the bread's texture.

How can I tell if my bread is baked through?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the bread; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. If it comes out wet, continue baking for a few more minutes.

What should I do if my cream cheese frosting is too thin?

If your frosting is too thin, try adding more powdered sugar gradually until you reach the desired consistency. This thickens the frosting without altering the flavor.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to this recipe?

Absolutely! Adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips can finish your pumpkin bread with added texture and flavor. Just fold them into the batter before pouring it into the pan.

Is there a way to make the pumpkin bread less sweet?

To reduce sweetness, cut back slightly on the sugar in the batter. You can also balance sweetness by increasing the spices, enhancing flavor without extra sugar.

Conclusion

This pumpkin bread with cream cheese frosting is not just a recipe; it's an experience that brings the flavors of fall to your kitchen. The combination of spices, moisture from pumpkin, and the creamy frosting creates a perfect harmony of taste and texture.

Baking this bread invites joy and warmth into your home, making it an excellent choice for gatherings or simply enjoying with a cup of coffee. Dive into the seasonal spirit and savor each slice with friends and family.

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