Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy treat that captures the essence of fall, look no further than this Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe. This delightful loaf is not only moist and flavorful but also filled with warm spices that make your kitchen smell heavenly. Whether you’re enjoying a slice with your morning coffee or serving it at a family gathering, this pumpkin bread brings joy to every occasion.

This recipe holds a special place in my heart. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something comforting or as a sweet addition to your holiday table. Trust me, once you bake this pumpkin bread, it will become a cherished favorite in your home too!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, this recipe is a breeze for both novice and experienced bakers.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves the combination of pumpkin and spices; it’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Bake it in advance! The flavors deepen over time, making it even more delicious the next day.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack, this pumpkin bread fits right in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is half the fun! This Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Here’s what you need:

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 of baking is making recipes your own! Here are some variations to try with this pumpkin bread:

• Add Nuts: Stir in chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
• Chocolate Twist: Add chocolate chips to the batter for a deliciously sweet surprise.
• Spiced Up: Experiment with additional spices like allspice or cardamom for a unique flavor profile.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend to cater to dietary needs without sacrificing taste.

How to Make Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan. This step ensures that your lovely pumpkin bread releases easily after baking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, cardamom, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients first helps distribute the leavening agents evenly throughout the batter.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, combine the canola oil, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth. This mixture brings moisture and flavor into your bread.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Stir until just combined; be careful not to overmix! Overmixing can lead to dense bread instead of light and fluffy goodness.

Step 5: Bake the Bread

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Bake in the preheated oven for about 55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The aroma will fill your kitchen as it bakes!

Step 6: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

While the bread cools slightly on a wire rack, beat together cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add vanilla extract and powdered sugar gradually; mix until creamy. If it’s too thick, add milk until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 7: Frost Your Bread

Once cooled completely, spread the cream cheese frosting generously over the top of your pumpkin bread. Enjoy every bite of this sweet addition!

Now you have all you need for an unforgettable baking experience! Enjoy sharing this delightful Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting with friends and family!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Baking this delightful pumpkin bread is a breeze when you follow these pro tips!

• Use fresh spices: Freshly ground spices can significantly enhance the flavor of your pumpkin bread, making it more aromatic and flavorful than using pre-ground options.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Gently combine your ingredients until just mixed. Overmixing can lead to a denser loaf, while a gentle hand ensures a light and fluffy texture.

• Check for doneness: Use a toothpick inserted in the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. This will help you avoid underbaking or overbaking your bread.

• Let it cool completely before frosting: Allowing the bread to cool fully prevents the cream cheese frosting from melting off, ensuring that you get that perfect creamy topping on each slice.

• Experiment with add-ins: Consider adding nuts or chocolate chips to the batter for extra texture and flavor. Chopped walnuts or dark chocolate chunks can create a delightful surprise in every bite!

How to Serve Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Serving this pumpkin bread is all about presentation and pairing! Here are some ideas to make it shine at your next gathering.

Garnishes

• Chopped pecans: Sprinkle some chopped pecans on top of the cream cheese frosting for added crunch and a nutty flavor that complements the pumpkin beautifully.
• Cinnamon sprinkle: A light dusting of ground cinnamon over the frosted bread adds an inviting aroma and enhances the fall flavors.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits like apples, pears, and oranges adds brightness and freshness that balances the richness of the pumpkin bread.
• Coffee or chai tea: Pairing your slice with a warm cup of coffee or spiced chai tea creates a cozy moment perfect for chilly autumn days.
• Yogurt parfait: A small yogurt parfait made with layers of Greek yogurt, granola, and honey offers a creamy contrast to the spiced loaf while adding nutritious elements.
• Cheese platter: A selection of mild cheeses can offer an interesting savory element that pairs surprisingly well with sweet pumpkin bread!

With these tips, garnishes, and side dish suggestions, your Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting will be not only delicious but also beautifully presented! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy its delightful flavors throughout the week. With proper storage, you can savor this tasty treat day after day!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the pumpkin bread to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place it in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
• Store at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

• Slice the pumpkin bread first for easier thawing later.
• Wrap each slice in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat, remove desired slices from the freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
• For a quick warm-up, place slices on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 10-15 seconds.
• Alternatively, warm slices in a toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

Have questions about this delicious recipe? Here are some common inquiries to help you out!

Can I make this Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures 1:1. The result will still be moist and flavorful!

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

To check if your Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting recipe is done, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s ready!

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to the pumpkin bread?

Yes! Feel free to fold in some chopped walnuts, pecans, or even chocolate chips into the batter before baking. They will add extra texture and flavor.

Why does my cream cheese frosting look lumpy?

Make sure your cream cheese and butter are at room temperature before mixing. If they’re too cold, they won’t combine smoothly. Mixing longer can also help achieve that creamy texture!

Final Thoughts

This Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting recipe holds a special place in my heart as it brings warmth and comfort during the chilly fall days. I truly hope you enjoy making this delightful treat as much as I do! Whether it’s for breakfast, dessert, or just a sweet snack, this pumpkin bread is sure to impress your family and friends. Happy baking!