Best Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread

If you’re looking for a cozy treat that captures the essence of fall, you’ve found it with the Best Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread! This delightful quick bread is not only moist and flavorful but also fills your kitchen with the warm aromas of cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. It’s a recipe that has been passed down through my family and has become a staple during the cooler months. Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight dessert or a family gathering, this bread brings comfort and joy in every slice.

What makes this recipe truly special is its versatility. It’s so easy to whip up, making it perfect for those impromptu baking sessions when you need something sweet. Plus, everyone loves the combination of chocolate and pumpkin—it’s simply irresistible!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This quick bread comes together in just 15 minutes of prep time! You’ll have a delicious treat baking away in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike love this sweet, spiced bread. It’s a fantastic way to sneak in some veggies while satisfying a sweet tooth!
• Make Ahead Convenience: It keeps well, so you can bake it in advance for busy days or freeze slices for later enjoyment.
• Irresistible Flavor: The warm spices paired with gooey chocolate chips make every bite feel like a hug on a plate.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that the ingredients for this Best Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread are simple and wholesome—perfect for creating a comforting dessert without fuss. Here’s what you’ll need:

Dry Ingredients

• 1 1/4 cups all purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground cloves
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg

Wet Ingredients

• 3 oz cooking oil
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla
• 1 cup pumpkin puree

Extras

• 1 1/4 cup chocolate chips (divided)
• oil spray

Variations

One of the best parts about this recipe is how flexible it can be! Feel free to experiment with different add-ins or substitutions to make it your own.

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
• Use different spices: Try swapping out the spices for your favorite blends, like pumpkin pie spice, to change up the flavor profile.
• Make it healthier: Substitute half of the sugar with mashed bananas or applesauce for a lighter version.
• Change the chips: Experiment with different types of chocolate chips—white chocolate or even butterscotch can be delicious alternatives!

How to Make Best Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your bread bakes evenly and rises perfectly from the moment you put it in.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium-sized bowl, combine your dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. Mixing these ingredients together first helps distribute them evenly throughout the batter.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the oil, eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, and pumpkin puree until smooth. This mixture will keep your bread moist and flavorful. Don’t forget to fold in one cup of chocolate chips at this stage; they’ll melt beautifully as they bake!

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Now it’s time to bring everything together! Gradually add your dry mixture into the large bowl with wet ingredients. Stir gently until just combined—be sure to scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl with a spatula to ensure no dry bits are left behind.

Step 5: Prepare Your Loaf Pan

Spray an 8 x 4 x 3 loaf pan with oil spray to prevent sticking. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Top off with an extra 1/4 cup of chocolate chips for that gorgeous presentation!

Step 6: Bake!

Pop your loaf pan into the oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. To check if it’s done, insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached, you’re good to go! Let it cool before slicing—if you can resist that long!

This Best Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread is sure to become a favorite in your home as it has in mine. Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Best Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread

Baking can be a delightful experience, especially when you have a few handy tips up your sleeve to make your pumpkin bread even better!

• Use fresh pumpkin puree: Freshly made pumpkin puree will give your bread a richer flavor and a more vibrant color than canned options. If you can, roast and blend your own pumpkins for a truly homemade touch.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Mixing too much can lead to dense bread. Just combine the wet and dry ingredients until they are incorporated for a light and fluffy texture.

• Check for doneness carefully: Ovens can vary, so start checking your bread a few minutes before the suggested baking time. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.

• Cool before slicing: Allowing your bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack helps maintain its moisture and makes slicing easier without crumbling.

• Store properly for freshness: To keep your chocolate chip pumpkin bread moist, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. You can also freeze slices for longer storage!

How to Serve Best Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread

This delightful pumpkin bread is perfect for any occasion! Whether you’re enjoying it as a cozy breakfast treat or serving it at a gathering, here are some delightful ways to present this autumn favorite.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting: A light sprinkle of powdered sugar on top adds a lovely touch and enhances the visual appeal.
• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top of the batter before baking for an extra crunch and nuttiness that pairs beautifully with chocolate.

Side Dishes

• Cream cheese spread: Serve with a dollop of vegan cream cheese mixed with maple syrup for added sweetness and creaminess that complements the pumpkin flavors.
• Fresh fruit salad: A light side of seasonal fruits like apples, pears, or berries balances the rich flavors of the bread while adding freshness.
• Herbal tea: Pair with a warm cup of herbal tea like chamomile or chai to enhance the cozy experience and bring out the spices in the bread.
• Cinnamon coffee: For those who enjoy coffee, serve alongside steaming cinnamon-infused coffee—it’s the perfect pick-me-up with this sweet treat!

Enjoy making your Best Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread, and let every slice remind you of the wonderful flavors of fall!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Best Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and store it, allowing you to enjoy a delicious slice any day of the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Keep the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to a week.

Freezing

• Wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place it in a freezer-safe bag or container to prevent freezer burn.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just remember to label the date!

Reheating

• To reheat, simply thaw the bread overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Warm individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds.
• For a crispy crust, reheat in a toaster oven at 350F for about 5-7 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making this delightful recipe!

Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree for the Best Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread?

It’s best to stick with plain pumpkin puree because pumpkin pie filling contains added spices and sugars that can alter the taste and texture of your bread.

How do I know when my Best Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread is done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, your bread is ready. If it has wet batter on it, give it more time in the oven.

Can I substitute other types of flour for this chocolate chip pumpkin bread?

Yes! You can try using whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour blends. Just keep in mind that this may slightly change the texture and taste.

What can I add to enhance the flavor of my chocolate chip pumpkin bread?

Consider adding nuts like walnuts or pecans, or even dried fruits like cranberries for an extra flavor twist!

Final Thoughts

I hope this Best Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread brings warmth and joy to your kitchen! It’s perfect for cozy evenings or sharing with loved ones. Enjoy every bite of its moistness paired with rich chocolate chips. I can’t wait for you to try making it—happy baking!