Best Pumpkin Bread

Cook Time: 45 minutes

This delicious pumpkin bread is perfect for the fall season, combining the flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves with the richness of walnuts and pepitas. It yields 36 servings and can be enjoyed for breakfast, a snack, or dessert. Follow these simple steps to make this irresistible treat.

Ingredients

• 4 cups brown sugar
• 3 cups fresh pumpkin puree
• 1 ripe banana, mashed
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 6 large eggs
• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoons salt
• 3 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 3 teaspoons ground nutmeg
• 3 teaspoons ground cloves
• 2 cups chopped walnuts
• cup green hulled pumpkin seeds (pepitas)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350F (175C). Grease and flour three 9x5-inch loaf pans.
2. In a large bowl, combine the brown sugar, pumpkin puree, mashed banana, vegetable oil, and eggs. Beat the mixture with an electric mixer until fully combined.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and chopped walnuts.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients into the pumpkin mixture, mixing until well combined and smooth.
5. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared loaf pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula.
6. Sprinkle the pepitas evenly over the batter in each pan.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean and the top springs back when lightly pressed.
8. Allow the loaves to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Cook's Notes

• To make pumpkin puree, remove the pumpkin stem, cut the pumpkin into slices, and scoop out the seeds. Peel the skin off the slices, cut the pumpkin meat into cubes, and boil until tender. Mash the boiled pumpkin into a smooth puree.
• Walnuts and pepitas are optional but add a nice texture and flavor to the bread.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 285
• Fat: 13g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Protein: 5g

Nutrition Breakdown

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Total Fat	13g	17%
Saturated Fat	2g	10%
Cholesterol	31mg	10%
Sodium	174mg	8%
Total Carbohydrates	40g	14%
Dietary Fiber	2g	5%
Total Sugars	25g
Protein	5g	9%
Vitamin C	2mg	2%
Calcium	53mg	4%
Iron	2mg	11%
Potassium	183mg	4%

Note: Nutritional values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily values may differ depending on your specific dietary needs.

This moist and flavorful pumpkin bread is a timeless fall treat that has become a staple for many home bakers. Made from scratch, it's perfect for serving a crowd or even freezing extras for later. But what makes this recipe special? Let's dive into its origins, variations, and the unique qualities that make it stand out from other pumpkin bread recipes.

History and Origin

While pumpkin bread is commonly associated with autumn baking, its roots can be traced back to early American recipes, particularly those influenced by Native American culinary traditions. Pumpkins, a New World crop, were a staple in the diets of indigenous peoples and were used in a variety of dishes, including stews and baked goods. Early European settlers incorporated pumpkin into their own recipes, adapting them to their own tastes. The idea of sweet pumpkin bread likely emerged during the 19th century as sugar became more widely available and the practice of baking quick breads gained popularity in the United States.

Regional Variations

In the United States, pumpkin bread is particularly popular in the Midwest and Northeast during the fall months, where pumpkin patches are abundant and the harvest season is celebrated. However, each region has its own take on this dish. In the Southern U.S., you might find pumpkin bread sweetened with molasses or spiced with allspice in addition to cinnamon and nutmeg. In contrast, pumpkin bread in New England often includes nuts like walnuts or pecans, which are native to the region. In some parts of the country, like the Pacific Northwest, you might even encounter pumpkin bread with a hint of maple syrup for added sweetness and richness.

How It's Different from Other Similar Breads

What sets pumpkin bread apart from other quick breads, like banana bread or zucchini bread, is the unique flavor profile provided by the pumpkin puree. While banana bread is rich with the flavor of ripe bananas and zucchini bread is known for its mild taste, pumpkin bread offers a hearty, earthy flavor enhanced by spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. The addition of pumpkin seeds (pepitas) on top gives it an extra layer of texture and a nutty, roasted flavor, making it even more distinct. The moist texture of pumpkin bread is also a signature feature, thanks to the pumpkin itself, which adds natural moisture and sweetness.

Where to Serve It

Pumpkin bread is often served as a breakfast item, a snack, or a dessert. Its versatility makes it suitable for any occasionwhether you're enjoying a quiet morning with coffee or hosting a fall brunch. It's also a popular choice for potlucks, bake sales, and holiday gatherings like Thanksgiving, where it can be served alongside other seasonal treats like pies and cookies. In fact, many people bake several loaves at once to share with friends and family or give as gifts during the holiday season.

Interesting Facts

• Did you know that pumpkin bread is often considered a "quick bread" because it doesn't require yeast? Instead, baking soda and baking powder are used to help it rise quickly.
• The pumpkin is not only delicious but also nutritious. It is packed with vitamins, especially vitamin A, and contains antioxidants like beta-carotene that promote eye health and boost the immune system.
• Historically, pumpkin was often used as a preservative for meats. The high level of pectin in pumpkin flesh helped preserve food during times when refrigeration was not available.
• Many bakers opt to use freshly pureed pumpkin for a richer flavor, although canned pumpkin is a convenient alternative that still produces excellent results.

Now that you know a bit more about pumpkin breads history, regional variations, and its differences from other quick breads, why not try baking this delicious treat? Whether you follow the recipe to the letter or add your own twist, this pumpkin bread is sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire!

FAQ about Best Pumpkin Bread

Comments