As the leaves turn vibrant shades of orange and gold, there's a particular comfort found in the warm aroma of baking pumpkin spice bread wafting through the kitchen. This recipe isn't just about indulging in the festive flavors of fall; it's about creating moments that bring family and friends together. Imagine slicing into a rich, moist loaf, drizzled with a sweet maple glaze, and serving it with a steaming cup of coffee during those cozy evenings.

Whether you're a seasoned chef or someone looking to evoke that warm, homey feeling, this pumpkin spice bread recipe meets all expectations—it's incredibly easy to whip up and utterly irresistible! Plus, if you're in the mood for a twist, I’ll also share how to transform this loaf into delightful pumpkin muffins. Get ready to fill your home with joy and flavor, because this bread is nothing short of a hug in dessert form.

Why is Pumpkin Spice Bread a Must-Try?

Irresistible aroma: The moment you bake this bread, your kitchen will be filled with warm, cinnamon-spiced fragrances that signal fall has arrived.
Moist texture: This recipe guarantees a consistently moist loaf, perfect for savoring each slice with butter or a drizzle of glaze.
Quick prep: With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, you’ll have this delightful bread ready in no time.
Easy variations: Fancy a different spin? Transform it into muffins or add chocolate chips for a sweet surprise!
Perfect for gatherings: Ideal for holiday parties or cozy family breakfasts, this pumpkin spice bread is sure to become a crowd favorite.

Pumpkin Spice Bread Ingredients

For the Bread

Pumpkin Puree – Provides moisture and natural sweetness; use pure pumpkin puree to achieve the best flavor.
Vegetable Oil – Keeps the bread moist while enhancing the pumpkin flavor; consider using coconut oil for a unique twist.
Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and a hint of molasses flavor; dark brown sugar will deepen the taste.
Granulated Sugar – Provides sweetness and helps the bread rise; feel free to adjust the amount based on your sweetness preference.
All-Purpose Flour – Gives structure to the loaf; for a gluten-free option, substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Baking Powder & Baking Soda – Leavening agents that ensure the pumpkin spice bread rises perfectly; make sure they’re fresh for best results.
Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Allspice – Essential spices that create the classic pumpkin flavor; use fresh spices for a more robust aroma.
Salt – Balances the overall sweetness; just a pinch makes a big difference.
Eggs – Provide moisture and bind the ingredients together; opt for flax eggs for a vegan version.

For the Maple Glaze

Powdered Sugar – Forms the base of the glaze; sift it for a smoother finish.
Maple Syrup – Adds a delightful sweetness and maple flavor; choose real maple syrup for an authentic taste.
Milk – Adjusts the glaze's consistency; use almond milk for a dairy-free version.

Feel the warmth and coziness of autumn as you gather these ingredients for the ultimate pumpkin spice bread experience!

How to Make Pumpkin Spice Bread

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan. This sets the stage for a perfectly baked loaf without sticking.
Whisk together brown sugar, eggs, and vegetable oil in a mixing bowl until smooth. The mixture should blend seamlessly, with the sugar dissolved and a lovely sheen on top.
Stir in the pumpkin puree and spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice). Enjoy the aromatic combination as you fold these essentials into the mix, bringing that classic pumpkin flavor to life.
Combine the dry ingredients by whisking together in another bowl: flour, baking powder, and baking soda. This helps to aerate the mixture, ensuring your bread rises beautifully.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—this helps maintain that coveted moist texture.
Pour the batter into the greased loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. This is where the magic begins, as the loaf will rise and fill your kitchen with tantalizing aromas.
Bake for 50-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. You’ll know it’s ready when the top turns a lovely golden brown and fills your home with warmth.
Prepare the maple glaze while the bread is baking by whisking together powdered sugar, maple syrup, and milk until smooth. Aim for a drizzling consistency that will delight every bite.
Cool the loaf for 10 minutes in the pan, then transfer to a wire rack. Allow it to cool fully before drizzling on the glaze. Waiting for the glaze gives the bread a moment to shine and sets the stage for a delicious finish.

Optional: Garnish with chopped nuts for added texture and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Spice Bread

Room Temperature: Store your pumpkin spice bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days to keep it fresh and moist.
Fridge: If you prefer a slightly firmer texture, you can refrigerate the bread, where it will last for up to a week. Just ensure it's wrapped tightly to prevent drying.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the unglazed pumpkin spice bread in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
Reheating: To enjoy your bread warm, slice and heat it in a toaster or oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes. This will bring back that fresh-baked aroma and texture!

Make Ahead Options

These Moist Pumpkin Spice Bread loaves are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance, keeping it covered in the refrigerator to retain moisture and flavor. For even easier prep, the baked bread can be stored (unglazed) at room temperature for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. To maintain the bread’s moist texture, ensure it's wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply glaze it after thawing or bring it to room temperature. This way, you’ll have delicious pumpkin spice bread ready to share with family and friends with minimal effort!

Expert Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Spice Bread

Use Pure Pumpkin: Always opt for pure pumpkin puree instead of pumpkin pie filling to avoid unwanted sugars and spices in your pumpkin spice bread.
Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, stir until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf instead of a moist, airy bread.
Check Freshness: Ensure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh; expired leavening agents can prevent the pumpkin spice bread from rising properly.
Maple Glaze Consistency: Adjust the milk in the maple glaze gradually to achieve your desired drizzling consistency. A too-thick glaze may not coat the bread evenly.
Add a Twist: For an extra indulgent pumpkin spice bread, consider folding in chocolate chips or nuts for added flavor and texture.
Storage Tips: Keep the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days or freeze it for up to 3 months (unglazed) for future enjoyment.

What to Serve with Pumpkin Spice Bread?

There’s nothing quite like a cozy slice of warm pumpkin spice bread to elevate your everyday meals into delightful moments.

Creamy Butter: Spread a generous pat of rich, creamy butter atop a warm slice for a luscious finish that enhances the bread's moistness.
Whipped Cream: Elevate your slice with a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream that complements the spices perfectly, making it feel like a dessert.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve a slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast that melts into the warm bread, creating a comforting treat.
Chai Tea: Pair this spiced bread with a warm cup of chai tea, as the fragrant spices harmonize beautifully, creating a mood of autumn bliss.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant fruit salad brings a refreshing touch, balancing the sweetness of the bread with hints of citrus and berry goodness.
Nutty Trail Mix: For a crunch factor, serve a side of nutty trail mix; the textures will enhance your experience, making each bite exciting.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: Embrace the seasonal vibe by enjoying a pumpkin spice latte alongside your slice—a match made in fall heaven.
Cranberry Sauce: A tart cranberry sauce can offer a lovely contrast to the sweetness of your pumpkin spice bread, surprising and delighting the palate.
Maple Syrup Drizzle: For those who adore sweetness, a drizzle of pure maple syrup can elevate each bite, echoing the flavors of the maple glaze.
Hot Chocolate: On chilly evenings, a warm cup of hot chocolate provides a comforting pairing, perfect for indulging in the cozy vibes.

Pumpkin Spice Bread Variations

Feel free to customize this recipe to create your perfect pumpkin spice bread experience!

Muffins: Transform the loaf by dividing the batter into muffin tins, reducing the baking time to 20-25 minutes for delightful pumpkin muffins.
Chocolate Chip Delight: Add ½ to 1 cup of chocolate chips to the batter for a sweet, melty surprise in every bite.
Nutty Twist: Fold in ½ cup of chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for an extra crunch and delightful flavor.
Dairy-Free Version: Substitute regular milk in the glaze with almond milk or coconut milk for a dairy-free treat that everyone can enjoy.
Spiced Up: Boost the flavor by including a pinch of ground ginger or a dash of cloves alongside your spices for a spicier kick.
Maple Power: Use maple sugar instead of granulated sugar to enhance the maple flavor in both the bread and glaze, making it more robust.
Whole Wheat Option: Swap half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier, more wholesome loaf.
Gluten-Free Goodness: Ensure a gluten-free loaf by using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, while maintaining the same moist texture and flavors.

Pumpkin Spice Bread Recipe FAQs

What type of pumpkin puree should I use?
Absolutely! It's essential to use pure pumpkin puree for your pumpkin spice bread. Avoid pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugars and spices that can alter the flavor. Look for canned options labeled "pure pumpkin" or make your own from fresh pumpkins by roasting and blending them into a smooth consistency.

How should I store leftover pumpkin spice bread?
Store your pumpkin spice bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. This will keep it moist and flavorful. If you find that it’s going to last longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and then freeze it for up to 3 months. Just remember to thaw it in the fridge before serving!

Can I freeze pumpkin spice bread? If so, how?
You can absolutely freeze your pumpkin spice bread! To do so, let the loaf cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. This helps prevent freezer burn. It will stay fresh for up to 3 months. To enjoy it later, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge, and warm it up in the oven if you want that fresh-baked feel again.

What should I do if my pumpkin spice bread comes out dense?
If you find your pumpkin spice bread has turned out dense, it may be due to overmixing the batter. When you combine the wet and dry ingredients, mix only until just combined; this helps maintain the fluffy texture. Additionally, make sure your baking soda and baking powder are fresh, as old leavening agents can lead to poor rise. If you’d like, you can also incorporate lighter ingredients, such as yogurt or sour cream, for extra moisture and fluffiness.

Is pumpkin spice bread suitable for my gluten-free friends?
Very! You can easily make pumpkin spice bread gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that other ingredients like baking powder and spices are also gluten-free, and double-check the labels to be safe. This way, everyone can enjoy a slice of this delightful treat!

Can pets eat pumpkin spice bread?
While pure pumpkin is actually good for pets, it’s important to note that the spices and sugars in pumpkin spice bread can be harmful. On occasion, small amounts of plain, cooked pumpkin without additives can benefit your furry friends. However, it’s best to keep the sweetened and spiced version to yourself to avoid any health issues.