Pumpkin bread is a type of quick bread made with pumpkin puree as the main ingredient. It is typically flavored with spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, and often includes ingredients like brown sugar, eggs, flour, and baking powder. Pumpkin bread can be made in a variety of ways, ranging from traditional recipes that call for a combination of wet and dry ingredients to more modern variations that use alternative ingredients like almond flour or coconut sugar.
Some recipes also include mix-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit to add texture and flavor. Pumpkin bread is a popular fall and winter treat, often served during Thanksgiving and Christmas. It can be enjoyed as a breakfast food, a snack, or even as a dessert. It is typically baked in a loaf pan, and can be served plain or with a spread of butter, cream cheese, or honey.
Lets see why pumpkin bread is good for you?
- Pumpkin puree is low in calories and high in fiber, which can help promote satiety and aid in digestion.
- Pumpkin puree is also rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, potassium, and iron.
- Some pumpkin bread recipes use alternative flours such as almond flour, which can be lower in carbohydrates and higher in protein than traditional wheat flour.
- Using natural sweeteners such as maple syrup or honey instead of refined sugar can reduce the overall sugar content of the bread.
- Some recipes also include healthy mix-ins such as nuts or dried fruit, which can add extra nutrients and fiber to the bread.
However, it is important to note that pumpkin bread can also be high in calories and sugar if made with excessive amounts of sugar or refined flours. It is also important to watch portion sizes and balance pumpkin bread with other healthy foods in your diet.
Ingredients:
- 1 and 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 eggs
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
How to bake pumpkin bread?
- Preheat the oven to the temperature specified in the recipe, usually around 350°F (180°C).
- Gather all of the ingredients and equipment needed for the recipe.
- Mix the wet ingredients together in a large mixing bowl, such as pumpkin puree, eggs, oil or butter, and any sweeteners.
- Mix the dry ingredients together in a separate mixing bowl, such as flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and any spices.
- Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, mixing until the batter is smooth and free of lumps.
- Fold in any additional mix-ins, such as nuts or chocolate chips.
- Pour the batter into a greased SunBrand Commercial loaf pan and smooth out the top.
- A toothpick or cake tester placed into the center of the bread should come out clean after 50 to 60 minutes of baking it in the preheated oven.
- Let the bread cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before removing it from the pan and letting it cool completely on a wire rack.
How to store pumpkin bread
- Before storing the bread, let it cool fully. Bread that is too warm may condense and get soggy.
- To stop air from seeping in and drying out the bread, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- For up to three to four days, keep the bread at room temperature. If you live in a hot and humid environment, it is recommended to store the bread in the fridge.
- You can also freeze pumpkin bread for longer storage. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. Pumpkin bread can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- To thaw frozen pumpkin bread, leave it at room temperature for a few hours or overnight. Alternatively, you can microwave individual slices for 10-20 seconds until they are warmed through.
By following these steps, your pumpkin bread will stay fresh and delicious for longer
Extra tips
- Use fresh pumpkin puree instead of canned if possible. Simply roast a small pumpkin, scoop out the flesh and puree it in a blender or food processor until smooth. Fresh pumpkin will give your bread a more pronounced pumpkin flavor.
- Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the batter for extra flavor.
- Replace some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier and healthier bread.
- Use a combination of spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger for a more complex and aromatic flavor.
- Brush the top of the bread with melted butter and sprinkle it with cinnamon sugar before baking. This will give your bread a sweet and crunchy crust.