As the cool breeze of autumn begins to swirl through the air, I find myself dreaming of all the delightful treats fall has to offer. There's something infinitely cozy about the first whiff of Pumpkin Spice Bread baking in the oven—the sweet, spicy aroma wraps around you like a warm hug. This recipe has a magical blend of flavors that evoke fond memories of family gatherings and chilly mornings, all wrapped up in one scrumptiously moist loaf.

Incredibly easy to prepare, this Pumpkin Spice Bread is perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings or impressing guests at your next cozy gathering. The rich pumpkin puree combined with aromatic spices like cinnamon and nutmeg creates a comforting flavor profile that will leave everyone asking for the recipe. And to elevate it further, a drizzle of homemade maple glaze transforms it into an irresistible delight. Whether enjoyed as a simple breakfast paired with coffee, or as a treat during a leisurely afternoon, this pumpkin bread promises to warm hearts and fill bellies. Let’s dive into this easy fall baking experience!

Why is Pumpkin Spice Bread a must-bake?

Incredibly simple: This Pumpkin Spice Bread requires minimal effort, making it accessible for bakers of all levels.

Irresistible aroma: As it bakes, its warm scent will envelop your home, creating an inviting atmosphere that hints at the deliciousness to come.

Uniquely moist texture: The combination of pumpkin puree and oil ensures each bite is soft, flavorful, and delightful.

Endless variations: Add chocolate chips or nuts for a personalized touch, or transform it into muffins for quick grab-and-go snacks.

Perfect for gatherings: Impress friends and family at your next get-together with this crowd-pleasing treat, perfect for any autumn occasion.

Enjoy with drinks: Pair it with a warm cup of coffee or tea for the ultimate cozy experience! For more fall-inspired baking, check out my Apple Cinnamon Muffins.

Pumpkin Spice Bread Ingredients

• If you're ready to bring the essence of autumn into your kitchen, here’s what you’ll need!

For the Bread

Pumpkin Puree – Provides moisture and natural sweetness; be sure to use pure pumpkin, not pie filling for the best flavor.
Cinnamon – The key spice that enhances the warm and rich flavors characteristic of pumpkin bread.
Nutmeg – Adds depth with its earthy aroma, perfectly balancing the sweetness.
Allspice – Complements other spices to create that classic, cozy fall essence.
Vegetable Oil – Keeps the loaf moist and tender; melted coconut oil can be a delicious alternative.
Brown Sugar – Introduces a rich sweetness with hints of molasses; consider coconut sugar for a lower glycemic choice.
Granulated Sugar – Balances the sweetness for a perfect flavor profile.
All-Purpose Flour – Provides the necessary structure; you can use a 1:1 gluten-free blend if you're aiming for a gluten-free Pumpkin Spice Bread.
Baking Powder & Baking Soda – Essential for proper rising, ensuring a light and airy texture.

For the Maple Glaze

Powdered Sugar – Creates a sweet base for your glaze, giving that irresistible glossy finish.
Maple Syrup – Infuses the glaze with rich, authentic flavor that complements the bread beautifully.
Milk – Adjusts the glaze’s consistency for a smooth and drizzle-worthy topping.

How to Make Pumpkin Spice Bread

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan with a little oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, eggs, and vegetable oil until smooth and creamy. Add in the pumpkin puree, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice, mixing well until fully combined.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and baking soda until no lumps remain. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agents.
Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep your bread tender and moist.
Bake: Pour the batter into the greased loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the bread is a lovely golden brown.
Prepare Maple Glaze: While the bread bakes, whisk together the powdered sugar, maple syrup, and milk in a small bowl until smooth and glossy. Adjust the milk for your desired glaze consistency.
Cool and Glaze: Once baked, allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer it to a wire rack. Once cooled completely, drizzle the maple glaze generously over the top.

Optional: For an extra touch, sprinkle some chopped pecans on top of the glaze for added crunch.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Pumpkin Spice Bread Variations

Feel free to get creative with this recipe—there are so many delightful twists you can try!

Chocolate Chips: Fold in ½ to 1 cup of chocolate chips for a decadent, sweet surprise in every bite. The rich chocolate pairs wonderfully with the spicy flavors.
Nuts: Add chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch and a nutty depth. The combination of textures makes each slice even more satisfying!
Muffins: Transform this recipe into muffins by pouring the batter into muffin tins, reducing the baking time to 20-25 minutes for perfect individual portions.
Dairy-Free: Replace the milk in the glaze with almond or oat milk for a dairy-free option that’s just as delightful. Everyone can indulge without compromise!
Maple Flavor Boost: Use maple sugar instead of brown sugar for the bread to amplify the maple essence throughout. It gives a delightful twist and enhances the overall flavor.
Spice Variations: Experiment with different spices like ginger or cloves to adjust the warmth to your liking. Each spice introduces a new level of cozy autumn flavor.
Coconut: Substitute half of the oil with coconut milk for a tropical twist that adds moisture and a hint of coconut flavor—perfect for those who love a little island flair!
Sweetener Swap: Use honey or maple syrup instead of granulated sugar for a more natural sweetener. This can bring a subtle flavor that complements the pumpkin beautifully.

Make Ahead Options

These Pumpkin Spice Bread loaves are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time on busy days! You can prepare the batter and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours prior to baking, ensuring fresh bread right when you need it. Simply mix your wet and dry ingredients separately and keep them covered in the fridge until you're ready to bake. If you prefer, you can also bake the bread ahead of time; cool it completely before storing in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days, or freeze (unglazed) for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat slices in the oven or microwave and glaze before serving to maintain that delightful texture and flavor!

How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Spice Bread

Airtight Container: Store your Pumpkin Spice Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days to keep it fresh and moist.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the unglazed loaf in a tightly wrapped foil or a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature for a few hours or overnight in the fridge, then glaze just before serving to maintain that delightful finish.

Reheating: If desired, warm slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to enjoy that freshly baked taste again.

What to Serve with Pumpkin Spice Bread?

Elevate your pumpkin bread experience by pairing it with delightful sides that complement its cozy flavors.

Coffee or Tea: The warm, spiced notes in pumpkin bread pair perfectly with a steaming cup of your favorite coffee or herbal tea, enhancing the cozy ambiance.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a rich, airy texture that contrasts beautifully with the moist bread, making each bite even more indulgent.
Butter: Spread a little softened butter on warm slices for a luscious, creamy layer that melts into the bread's spices, perfect for a comforting morning treat.
Cream Cheese Frosting: For a decadent twist, drizzle or spread on cream cheese frosting, adding tanginess that balances the sweetness beautifully.
Chopped Nuts: Serve with a side of toasted pecans or walnuts for extra crunch and a nutty flavor that pairs incredibly well with the bread's softness.
Maple Syrup: Drizzle extra maple syrup on top of your slices for an additional layer of sweetness that brings out the flavors of the maple glaze.
Fresh Fruit: Slices of fresh apples or pears provide a refreshing contrast, cutting through the richness of the bread while adding a touch of brightness.
Hard Cider: A glass of spiced hard cider makes for a festive addition to any fall gathering, enhancing the autumnal experience when paired with pumpkin bread.
Vanilla Ice Cream: For an indulgent dessert, serve warm slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, creating a sweet, melty contrast that will delight your guests.

Tips for the Best Pumpkin Spice Bread

Choose the Right Pumpkin: Use pure pumpkin puree for the best flavor and moisture; avoid pumpkin pie filling which can be overly sweet and spiced.
Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined to ensure your Pumpkin Spice Bread has a tender texture.
Check Oven Temperature: Make sure your oven is accurate by using an oven thermometer; uneven baking can affect the bread's rise and moisture.
Cooling Time: Allow the bread to cool completely in the pan for optimal texture before glazing; this helps prevent the glaze from sliding off.
Experiment with Taste: Feel free to add chocolate chips or nuts to personalize your Pumpkin Spice Bread; just keep the proportions balanced for perfect results.

Pumpkin Spice Bread Recipe FAQs

What type of pumpkin puree should I use for Pumpkin Spice Bread?
Absolutely! It's essential to use pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling. The latter contains added sugars and spices that can alter the flavor and moisture of your bread. When choosing a can, look for one that lists just pumpkin as the ingredient for the best taste.

How should I store leftover Pumpkin Spice Bread?
To keep your Pumpkin Spice Bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for long-term storage; simply wrap the unglazed bread in foil or place it in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. You can always thaw it overnight in the refrigerator when you’re ready to enjoy it again!

Can I freeze Pumpkin Spice Bread?
Yes, you can! To freeze your Pumpkin Spice Bread, make sure it's completely cooled first. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and then place it in a freezer-safe bag. For the best quality, consume it within 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw it at room temperature or in the fridge overnight before glazing.

What should I do if my Pumpkin Spice Bread is too dense?
Very! If your Pumpkin Spice Bread turns out too dense, it might be due to overmixing the batter or incorrect measurements of flour. To ensure light and fluffy bread, mix your wet and dry ingredients until just combined. It’s also important to use the right amount of baking powder and baking soda, so measuring them accurately is crucial!

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Definitely! For a gluten-free version of the Pumpkin Spice Bread, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. I recommend checking the label to ensure it has a similar texture and ability to raise as regular flour. Additionally, make sure that your baking powder is gluten-free to keep your recipe safe for any dietary needs.

Is Pumpkin Spice Bread safe for pets?
It's best to avoid sharing your Pumpkin Spice Bread with pets, especially dogs. While pumpkin itself is safe in small amounts, the spices and sugar in this recipe can be harmful to them. If you want to give your furry friend a treat, plain cooked pumpkin is a safe alternative!