Name: Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp baking soda; 2 tsp ground cinnamon; 1 tsp ground ginger; ½ tsp ground nutmeg; ½ tsp ground cloves; ¼ tsp ground cardamom; ½ tsp salt; ½ cup canola oil; ¾ cup granulated sugar; ½ cup light brown sugar; 2 large eggs; 1¼ cup canned pumpkin puree; 2 tsp vanilla extract; 4 oz cream cheese; 4 tbsp unsalted butter; 1 cup powdered sugar; 1-3 tsp milk, as needed

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If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food that captures the essence of fall, you’ve come to the right place! This Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is a cherished favorite in my home. The rich, warm spices combined with the buttery sweetness of pumpkin create a loaf that’s not just delicious but also incredibly inviting. Whether you’re enjoying it on a busy weeknight or bringing it to a family gathering, this recipe is sure to make everyone feel right at home.

What makes this pumpkin bread even more special is its luscious cream cheese frosting. It adds just the right amount of sweetness and creaminess, making every slice an absolute delight. Trust me; once you try this recipe, you’ll want to bake it again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this pumpkin bread in no time.
Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the comforting flavors of this delicious loaf.
Perfect for any occasion: Great for breakfast, dessert, or a cozy afternoon snack.
Make-ahead friendly: Bake it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week!
Freezes well: You can easily stash away extras for later enjoyment!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Gather these items to create your delightful pumpkin bread!

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

One of the best parts about this Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is how flexible it is! Feel free to customize it to suit your taste preferences or what you have on hand.

Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
Incorporate chocolate chips: Stir in semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for a sweet twist.
Make it gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free blend.
Create mini loaves: Divide the batter into smaller pans for adorable bite-sized treats!

How to Make Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial because it ensures that your bread bakes evenly and develops that lovely golden-brown crust.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, spices, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients first helps distribute the leavening agent and spices evenly throughout the batter.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another large bowl, combine the canola oil, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, eggs, pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract. Whisk until everything is well blended. This mixture creates moisture and flavor in your pumpkin bread.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add your dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined—be careful not to over-mix! A few lumps are okay; they will bake out beautifully.

Step 5: Pour into Loaf Pan

Pour your batter into a greased 9×5 loaf pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly. This helps ensure that your pumpkin bread bakes uniformly.

Step 6: Bake

Place your loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be simply heavenly!

Step 7: Prepare Cream Cheese Frosting

While your bread cools, beat together cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add vanilla extract and powdered sugar gradually while mixing. If it’s too thick, add milk a teaspoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 8: Frost Your Bread

Once fully cooled, generously spread the cream cheese frosting over your pumpkin bread. Cut yourself a slice and enjoy every bit of this delightful treat!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Baking is an art, and with a few helpful tips, you can take your pumpkin bread to the next level!

Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Starting with room temperature eggs and cream cheese ensures better mixing and a smoother batter, leading to a lighter texture in the finished loaf.
Don’t Overmix the Batter: When combining your dry and wet ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can result in dense bread instead of the fluffy texture we all love.
Check for Doneness Early: Ovens can vary, so start checking for doneness about 5-10 minutes before the suggested baking time. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
Store Properly for Freshness: To keep your pumpkin bread moist, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze it for up to 3 months.
Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your preference. Adding a pinch of allspice or using fresh grated ginger can give your bread a unique twist that’s all your own!

How to Serve Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Serving your delicious pumpkin bread is just as important as making it! Here are some ideas to elevate your presentation and enjoyment.

Garnishes

Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle some chopped walnuts or pecans on top of the cream cheese frosting for added crunch and flavor.
Cinnamon Dust: A light dusting of ground cinnamon on top not only adds visual appeal but also enhances the warm spice notes of the bread.
Pumpkin Seeds: Toasted pumpkin seeds can add a delightful crunch while reinforcing the pumpkin theme of this dish.

Side Dishes

Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad with apples, pears, and berries pairs beautifully with pumpkin bread, adding brightness and balancing its flavors.
Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and seasonal fruits makes for a delightful side that complements the richness of the bread.
Herbal Tea: A steaming cup of herbal tea, like chai or chamomile, provides warmth and aromatic flavors that harmonize wonderfully with pumpkin bread.
Coffee: A classic pairing! The rich flavors of coffee enhance the spices in the pumpkin loaf, making it perfect for breakfast or an afternoon treat.

Enjoy sharing this delightful pumpkin bread recipe with friends and family. It’s not just food; it’s an experience filled with warmth and comfort!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy delicious treats throughout the week. Whether you want to bake in advance or store leftovers, this recipe has you covered!

Storing Leftovers

Allow the pumpkin bread to cool completely before storing.
Wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
Store at room temperature for up to 3 days.
For longer freshness, keep it in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

Once cooled, wrap the pumpkin bread tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil.
Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
To freeze individual slices, cut the bread before wrapping.

Reheating

To reheat slices, microwave for 15-20 seconds or until warmed through.
For a slightly crispy exterior, place slices in a toaster oven for a few minutes.
If reheating the whole loaf, wrap in foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about this delightful recipe:

Can I make Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting ahead of time?

Absolutely! This pumpkin bread can be made a day or two in advance. Just store it properly, and frost it right before serving for the best flavor.

What can I use instead of cream cheese frosting on my Pumpkin Bread?

If you prefer an alternative topping, consider using a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk or even a dairy-free cream cheese substitute.

How do I know when my Pumpkin Bread is done baking?

Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the loaf; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached, it’s ready!

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?

Certainly! Just make sure to cook and puree the fresh pumpkin first. It may alter the moisture content slightly, so adjust baking time accordingly.

What makes this Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting so special?

The combination of warming spices and creamy frosting creates a cozy dessert that’s perfect for fall gatherings or simply enjoying at home!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited to try this Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe as I am! It’s more than just a treat; it’s an experience that fills your kitchen with warmth and your heart with joy. Enjoy making this delightful loaf, share it with loved ones, and embrace all those wonderful fall flavors. Happy baking!

Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting

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Author: Autumn
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 55 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Yield: Makes approximately 12 servings 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

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Description

Indulge in the cozy flavors of fall with this delightful Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe. The rich blend of spices and sweet pumpkin puree creates a moist, tender loaf that’s perfect for any occasion, from breakfast to dessert. With its luscious cream cheese frosting, each slice offers the ideal balance of sweetness and creaminess. This recipe is not only easy to make but also family-friendly and versatile, allowing you to customize it to your taste. Bake a loaf today and share the warmth of homemade goodness with your loved ones!

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
2 tsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp ground ginger
½ tsp ground nutmeg
½ tsp ground cloves
¼ tsp ground cardamom
½ tsp salt
½ cup canola oil
¾ cup granulated sugar
½ cup light brown sugar
2 large eggs
1¼ cup canned pumpkin puree
2 tsp vanilla extract
4 oz cream cheese
4 tbsp unsalted butter
1 cup powdered sugar
1–3 tsp milk, as needed

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, spices, and salt.
In another large bowl, combine canola oil, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, eggs, pumpkin puree, and vanilla; mix well.
Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
Pour batter into a greased 9×5 loaf pan and bake for about 55 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
While cooling, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth; gradually add powdered sugar and milk as needed.
Frost cooled bread generously and slice to serve.