Pumpkin Spice Bread with Toasted Marshmallows

Cook Time: 60 minutes

Ingredients

• 3 cups Pillsbury BEST All Purpose Flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
• teaspoon salt
• 1 (15 ounce) can solid pack pumpkin
• 1 cup Crisco Pure Vegetable Oil
• 2 cups sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 3 cups mini marshmallows

Directions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350F (175C). Lightly coat two 9x5-inch loaf pans with Crisco Original No-Stick Cooking Spray.

Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, and salt.

Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the pumpkin, vegetable oil, sugar, and eggs until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

Step 4: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the pumpkin mixture, mixing until fully incorporated.

Step 5: Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared loaf pans.

Step 6: Bake the loaves for 50 to 55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Once baked, switch your oven to the broil setting. Evenly sprinkle the mini marshmallows over the top of each loaf.

Step 8: Broil the marshmallows for about 3 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and lightly toasted.

Step 9: Allow the loaves to cool completely before slicing and serving.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Nutrition	Amount	% Daily Value
Calories	296
Total Fat	12g	16%
Saturated Fat	2g	8%
Cholesterol	28mg	9%
Sodium	280mg	12%
Total Carbohydrate	44g	16%
Dietary Fiber	1g	3%
Total Sugars	25g
Protein	3g	7%
Vitamin C	1mg	1%
Calcium	25mg	2%
Iron	1mg	3%
Potassium	56mg	1%

Servings Per Recipe: 20

This delicious Pumpkin Spice Bread, topped with toasted marshmallows, is the perfect fall treat. The warm, spiced flavors of pumpkin blend with the sweetness of toasted mini marshmallows, creating an indulgent dessert or snack. Below, well explore the history and regional characteristics of this delightful recipe, as well as how it compares to similar dishes, where its commonly served, and a few fun facts to enrich your experience.

History and Origins

Pumpkin spice bread is part of a long tradition of fall baking that has become a staple of autumn in the United States. The history of pumpkin in baking dates back to the early settlers in North America, who used native pumpkins in a variety of dishes. By the 19th century, pumpkin pie and pumpkin bread had become common fare for harvest celebrations. The addition of pumpkin pie spice a blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves further enhanced the breads warm flavors, linking it to the classic autumnal desserts we now enjoy. The concept of adding toasted marshmallows to baked goods like pumpkin bread likely emerged in the 20th century, as marshmallows became more widely available and popular in American households, particularly as a topping for other fall dishes like sweet potato casseroles.

Regional Features

While pumpkin spice bread is a national favorite, it has particular prominence in regions with a strong tradition of fall harvest festivals and holiday baking. The bread is especially popular in the northeastern United States, where pumpkins are plentiful and the season is marked by festivals celebrating local produce. In the Midwest, the bread is often served as a snack during the colder months when people gather indoors. The idea of adding toasted marshmallows as a topping is particularly popular in American kitchens, offering a unique twist on a classic dessert.

Differences from Similar Dishes

Pumpkin spice bread stands out from other quick breads and cakes due to its rich pumpkin base and the signature pumpkin pie spice blend. Unlike many banana or zucchini breads, which are typically denser and more moist, pumpkin spice bread has a slightly fluffier texture and a vibrant orange color. The addition of marshmallows also sets this recipe apart from more traditional pumpkin breads, where frosting or glaze is often used. In comparison to pumpkin pie, which has a custard-like filling, pumpkin spice bread is baked in a loaf form and lacks the creamy filling, focusing instead on a more solid, cake-like texture.

Where It's Typically Served

Pumpkin spice bread with toasted marshmallows is commonly served during fall holidays like Thanksgiving and Halloween. Its also popular at family gatherings, school bake sales, and seasonal parties. This bread is a great choice for breakfast, served with coffee or tea, or as a cozy afternoon snack. The warm marshmallows on top make it an irresistible treat for kids, while the spiced bread appeals to adults looking for a comforting dessert. It is often paired with other autumn-themed dishes, such as pumpkin pie, apple cider, or roasted squash.

Fun Facts

• The pumpkin pie spice used in this bread was originally a commercial blend created in the 1930s to help home bakers achieve the perfect flavor without having to mix several spices from scratch.
• The tradition of baking with marshmallows dates back to the early 1900s, when marshmallows were first mass-produced and marketed as an easy-to-use dessert topping.
• Pumpkin bread, like this one, is sometimes referred to as a "quick bread" because it doesn't require yeast and rises thanks to baking powder and soda instead. This makes it faster and easier to prepare than yeast-based breads.

FAQ about Pumpkin Spice Bread with Toasted Marshmallows