Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy treat that captures the essence of fall, then this Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is just what you need! This recipe has been a staple in my kitchen for years, filling the air with warm spices and that unmistakable pumpkin aroma. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something simple yet delicious or for family gatherings where everyone loves to indulge in a slice (or two).

What really makes this pumpkin bread special is the creamy, tangy cream cheese frosting that takes it to the next level. It’s not just a dessert; it’s comfort food at its finest. Whether you’re enjoying it with your morning coffee or serving it as a sweet ending to dinner, this pumpkin bread will surely bring smiles all around.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Family favorite: The combination of spices and sweetness makes it a hit among kids and adults alike.
• Make-ahead friendly: Bake it ahead of time, and it stays moist for days—perfect for meal prep!
• Versatile treat: Great for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack, this bread fits any occasion.
• Deliciously spiced: The warm flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger create a comforting experience with every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To whip up this delightful pumpkin bread, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients that are easy to find at your local grocery store. Here’s what you’ll gather:

For the Pumpkin Bread

• 2 cups (240 g) all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp (6 g) baking soda
• 2 tsp (6 g) ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• ½ tsp ground nutmeg
• ½ tsp ground cloves
• ¼ tsp ground cardamom
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ cup (118 ml) canola oil
• ¾ cup (150 g) granulated sugar
• ½ cup (100 g) light brown sugar
• 2 large eggs (US), room temperature
• 1¼ cup (325 g) canned pumpkin puree
• 2 tsp (10 ml) vanilla extract

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

• 4 oz. (113 g) cream cheese, room temperature
• 4 tbsp (57 g) unsalted butter, room temperature
• 1 tsp (5 ml) vanilla extract
• 1 cup (125 g) powdered sugar
• 1-3 tsp (5-15 ml) milk, as needed

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative and customize your pumpkin bread to suit your tastes. Here are some fun variations:

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch.
• Mix in chocolate chips: For a sweeter twist, add semi-sweet chocolate chips to the batter.
• Use different spices: Experiment with your favorite spices like allspice or cardamom to change up the flavor profile.
• Make mini loaves: Pour the batter into mini loaf pans for cute individual servings—perfect for gifts!

How to Make Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures that your bread bakes evenly and rises beautifully.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, spices, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients well helps distribute the leavening agent and flavor evenly throughout your bread.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, combine the canola oil, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, eggs, pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract. Beat everything together until smooth. This mixture creates a rich base full of moisture and flavor.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Gently fold them together until just combined; be careful not to overmix! Overmixing can lead to tough bread instead of soft and fluffy goodness.

Step 5: Bake

Pour your batter into a greased 9×5 loaf pan and bake in your preheated oven for about 55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The aroma that fills your kitchen during baking is simply irresistible!

Step 6: Prepare Cream Cheese Frosting

While your bread cools, prepare the frosting by beating together cream cheese and butter until creamy. Add in vanilla extract and powdered sugar gradually. If needed, adjust consistency with milk until your desired thickness is reached.

Step 7: Frost and Enjoy!

Once your pumpkin bread is completely cool, generously spread on that luscious cream cheese frosting. Slice it up and enjoy each bite—trust me; it’s heavenly!

Now you have everything you need to make this scrumptious Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe at home. Enjoy every delicious moment!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Baking can be such a joy, especially when you have a few helpful tips up your sleeve! Here are some pro tips to ensure your pumpkin bread turns out perfectly every time.

• Use fresh spices: Freshly ground spices can elevate the flavor of your pumpkin bread significantly. They provide a robust aroma and taste that pre-ground spices often lack.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Mixing the batter just until combined helps keep your bread tender and moist. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf, which we definitely want to avoid!

• Check for doneness properly: Use a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf to check if it’s done. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, your pumpkin bread is ready to come out of the oven.

• Let it cool completely before frosting: Allowing your bread to cool fully will prevent the cream cheese frosting from melting off. This makes for a beautiful presentation and ensures that each slice holds its shape.

• Store properly: If you have leftovers, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing slices; they freeze beautifully!

How to Serve Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Presenting your pumpkin bread well can make it even more delightful! Here are some fun ideas for serving this delightful treat.

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some toasted walnuts or pecans on top of the frosting for added crunch and flavor.
• Cinnamon sprinkle: A light dusting of cinnamon adds an extra layer of warmth and enhances the autumn vibes.
• Fresh herbs: Garnish with a few sprigs of fresh rosemary or thyme for a pop of color and unexpected flavor contrast.

Side Dishes

• Hot coffee or tea: The warmth and richness of coffee or tea perfectly complement the sweet and spiced flavors of pumpkin bread.
• Yogurt parfait: A simple yogurt parfait with layers of Greek yogurt, granola, and fresh fruit provides a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the bread.
• Apple cider: A glass of warm apple cider brings a seasonal touch that pairs beautifully with pumpkin.
• Mixed green salad: A light mixed green salad dressed with vinaigrette can balance the sweetness of the bread while adding freshness to your meal.

Enjoy serving this delightful Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting at gatherings or simply as a cozy treat at home! Whether enjoying it solo or sharing it with loved ones, this recipe is sure to bring smiles all around.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy its deliciousness throughout the week. Whether you’re planning for breakfast or dessert, this loaf keeps well and tastes even better the next day!

Storing Leftovers

• Wrap the cooled pumpkin bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store it at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, keep it in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

• Slice the pumpkin bread before freezing for easy serving.
• Wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or toast directly from frozen.

Reheating

• To reheat individual slices, pop them in the toaster until warm.
• For larger portions, cover with foil and heat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.

FAQs

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

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned for the Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe?

Yes! You can use fresh pumpkin puree made from roasted pumpkins. Just make sure to drain any excess moisture for the best results.

How can I make my Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe more flavorful?

You can enhance the flavor by adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans, or incorporating chocolate chips into the batter. Experimenting with spices can also give your bread an extra kick!

Can I make this Pumpkin Bread without eggs?

Absolutely! You can substitute each egg with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) or applesauce (1/4 cup per egg) for a vegan-friendly option.

How long does the cream cheese frosting last on the pumpkin bread?

The cream cheese frosting will stay fresh on the pumpkin bread for about 3 days when stored properly in the refrigerator.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting recipe brings warmth and joy to your kitchen! It’s not only a delicious treat but also an opportunity to share moments of happiness with loved ones. Enjoy making it and savor every slice! Happy baking!