Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping

If you’re looking for a cozy treat that captures the essence of fall, you’ve landed in the right spot! This Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping is a personal favorite of mine. Its rich pumpkin flavor and delightful spices create a warm hug in each bite. Whether you’re baking for a busy weeknight dessert or for a family gathering, this recipe will surely bring smiles to everyone at the table.

What makes this bread special is not just its comforting taste, but also its simplicity. You can whip it up with just a few wholesome ingredients that are likely already in your pantry. Plus, the crumb topping adds that perfect crunch, making it an irresistible snack any time of day!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Simple: This recipe comes together in no time, making it perfect for busy days when you need a sweet pick-me-up.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this moist pumpkin bread. It’s a great way to introduce little ones to the joys of baking!
• Make-Ahead Magic: Bake it ahead of time and freeze for later! Just thaw and enjoy whenever you need a sweet treat.
• Deliciously Versatile: Enjoy it plain or with your favorite spreads — it’s delicious either way!
• Perfectly Spiced: The blend of spices creates an aromatic experience that fills your kitchen with warmth and nostalgia.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! This easy Pumpkin Bread recipe calls for simple, wholesome items that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Bread

• 3 1/3 cups all purpose flour
• 1 1/2 tsp salt
• 2 tsp baking soda
• 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves
• 1/4 tsp ground allspice
• 1/4 tsp ground ginger
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 cup canola oil (or vegetable oil)
• 4 large eggs
• 1 15oz can pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
• 2/3 cup water
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Crumb Topping

• 1/2 cup butter, cold and cubed
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 3/4 cup all purpose flour
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon

Variations

One of the best things about this Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping is how flexible it is! Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch.
• Chocolate Chips: Fold in some semi-sweet chocolate chips for a delightful twist on flavor.
• Dried Fruits: Add raisins or dried cranberries for a chewy texture and added sweetness.
• Spice It Up: Try adding a touch more cinnamon or even some pumpkin pie spice if you’re feeling adventurous!

How to Make Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Greasing two 8×4 bread pans will help prevent sticking. I like to line the bottoms with parchment paper and spray them with baking spray for good measure!

Step 2: Mix Your Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine your flour, salt, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, allspice, and ginger. Mixing these dry ingredients first ensures all those wonderful spices are evenly distributed throughout your bread.

Step 3: Combine Sugars

Add in both granulated sugar and brown sugar to your dry mix. Stir until well combined; this helps create a sweet foundation for your bread.

Step 4: Add Oil

Make a well in the center of your dry ingredients and pour in the oil. Mix just until combined — don’t worry if it looks dry at this point; that’s perfectly normal!

Step 5: Incorporate Eggs

Add the eggs two at a time while mixing after each addition. This helps incorporate air into your batter which contributes to its fluffiness.

Step 6: Mix in Pumpkin Puree

Next, add in your pumpkin puree, water, and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is well combined; this step brings all those lovely flavors together!

Step 7: Divide Batter into Pans

Now it’s time to divide the batter between your two prepared bread pans. Make sure they’re evenly filled so they bake consistently.

Step 8: Prepare Crumb Topping

In another bowl, mix together flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon for the crumb topping. Cut in cold butter until it resembles coarse crumbs. This crunchy topping is what takes your pumpkin bread from good to amazing!

Step 9: Sprinkle Topping Over Batter

Sprinkle that lovely crumb topping evenly over both batters before placing them in the oven.

Step 10: Bake Until Perfect

Bake for about 55-65 minutes or until a cake tester comes out clean. If the tops are browning too quickly, tent them with foil as they bake.

Step 11: Cool Down

After baking is complete, let the loaves cool for about ten minutes in their pans before transferring them to a wire rack to finish cooling completely.

Step 12: Slice and Serve!

Once cooled, slice up that delicious bread! Serve it warm or at room temperature — either way, enjoy every comforting bite!

Pro Tips for Making Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping

Baking this delicious pumpkin bread is all about getting it just right, so here are some helpful tips to ensure your loaves come out perfectly every time!

• Use fresh spices: Freshly ground spices can significantly enhance the flavor of your pumpkin bread, giving it that warm, cozy aroma that makes it irresistible.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Gently mixing the ingredients until just combined will keep your bread tender and prevent it from becoming tough. Remember, lumps are okay!

• Check for doneness early: Ovens can vary in temperature. Start checking at the 50-minute mark to avoid overbaking, which can dry out your bread.

• Cool completely before slicing: Letting your pumpkin bread cool fully allows the flavors to meld and makes slicing easier, resulting in beautiful, clean cuts.

• Store properly: To keep your pumpkin bread moist longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It also freezes well for up to three months!

How to Serve Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping

Presenting your pumpkin bread beautifully can make all the difference! Here are some ideas to elevate your serving game.

Garnishes

• Whipped coconut cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream on top adds a delightful creamy texture and a hint of sweetness.
• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some toasted walnuts or pecans on top for added crunch and flavor.
• Cinnamon sugar dusting: A light dusting of cinnamon sugar not only looks beautiful but also enhances the spiced flavor of the bread.

Side Dishes

• Hot apple cider: The warm spices in apple cider complement the pumpkin flavors perfectly and create a cozy fall atmosphere.
• Creamy soup: Pair with a bowl of butternut squash or tomato basil soup for a comforting meal that’s perfect on chilly days.
• Simple salad: A fresh green salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the bread and adds brightness to your plate.
• Yogurt parfait: Serve slices alongside yogurt topped with granola and fruit for a delightful breakfast or snack option.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping will be more than just a treat; it’ll be a centerpiece that everyone will love! Enjoy baking and sharing this delightful fall favorite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping is perfect for meal prep and can easily be made ahead of time. Whether you’re planning for a busy week or want to enjoy it fresh throughout the fall, this recipe has you covered!

Storing Leftovers

• Item Allow the pumpkin bread to cool completely before storing.
• Item Wrap each loaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Item Store at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

• Item Slice the bread into individual pieces for easier thawing.
• Item Wrap each slice in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight freezer bag.
• Item Freeze for up to 3 months. Label the bags with the date for easy reference.

Reheating

• Item Remove slices from the freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
• Item To reheat, place slices on a microwave-safe plate and heat for about 15-20 seconds, or until warm.
• Item Alternatively, you can reheat slices in a toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delicious Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping!

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned puree?

Absolutely! If you have fresh pumpkin, make sure to cook it until soft and puree it until smooth. This will give your Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping a lovely homemade touch.

How do I know when my pumpkin bread is done baking?

The best way to check if your Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping is ready is to insert a cake tester or toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s time to take it out of the oven!

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to my pumpkin bread?

Definitely! Adding nuts like walnuts or pecans, or even chocolate chips can elevate your Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping even more. Just fold them into the batter before pouring it into the pans.

What should I serve with my pumpkin bread?

This pumpkin bread pairs wonderfully with cream cheese spread, butter, or even a drizzle of maple syrup for an extra special treat!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping! It’s not just a recipe; it’s a warm hug on a chilly autumn day. The delightful aroma that fills your kitchen while it’s baking is simply magical. I can’t wait for you to experience that first slice—moist, flavorful, and topped with that irresistible crumb topping. Enjoy every bite as you share this lovely treat with family and friends!