Pumpkin Bread

If you’ve been searching for a cozy, homey treat that captures the essence of autumn’s best flavors, look no further than this Pumpkin Bread. It’s a warm, tender loaf bursting with natural pumpkin sweetness and a beautiful golden hue that can brighten up any breakfast or snack time. The Pumpkin Bread is not only incredibly easy to whip up but also fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma that feels like a comforting hug. Whether you enjoy it fresh out of the oven or toasted the next day, this bread is destined to become a cherished staple in your baking repertoire.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Pumpkin Bread recipe plays a starring role, coming together simply yet perfectly to create a loaf with ideal flavor, texture, and color. From the velvety pumpkin puree adding moisture and richness, to the active dry yeast working its magic on the rise, each component has its purpose.

• 3/4 cup cool water (180 g): Hydrates the yeast and flour, ensuring a tender crumb.
• 1/2 tsp active dry yeast (use 1/4 tsp for overnight rise): Gives the bread its light and airy texture through fermentation.
• 1 cup pumpkin puree (225 g): Infuses the bread with that vibrant orange color and subtle natural sweetness.
• 3 cups bread flour (425 g): Provides the structure and chewiness essential to a rustic loaf.
• 2 tsp fine sea salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the other flavors.

How to Make Pumpkin Bread

Step 1: Activate the Yeast and Combine Pumpkin

Start by pouring the cool water into a large bowl and sprinkling the active dry yeast on top. Stir gently and let it sit for a few minutes so the yeast can become nice and bubbly. Next, whisk in the pumpkin puree until the mixture is a smooth, glowing orange liquid with no lumps—this helps ensure even flavor and texture throughout your bread.

Step 2: Mix in Flour and Salt

Now add the bread flour and fine sea salt to the pumpkin-yeast mixture. Begin by stirring with a spatula, then switch to your hands, folding and squeezing the dough until it’s well combined. It will be sticky but that’s perfect. Cover the bowl and let the dough rest at room temperature for an hour. After that, perform a few folds to strengthen the gluten, cover again, and allow it to rise for 3 to 4 hours until it expands by about one-third.

Step 3: Refrigerate Overnight

Once your dough has had its initial rise, pop the bowl into the fridge for about 12 hours or overnight. This slow cold ferment deepens the flavor wonderfully, giving your Pumpkin Bread an irresistible complexity and a perfect crumb.

Step 4: Shape and Second Rise

The next morning, lightly flour your work surface and gently shape the dough into a round ball by tucking the edges underneath. Place it on parchment paper, dust the top with flour, cover with a tea towel, and let it rise again for 3 to 4 hours. This step ensures your loaf will be lofty and light.

Step 5: Preheat and Score

Place a Dutch oven in your oven and preheat to 450°F (230°C). Once fully hot, remove it carefully. Use a sharp knife to score a shallow slash on the top of the dough — this gives the bread room to expand gracefully in the oven.

Step 6: Bake Your Pumpkin Bread

Transfer the dough with the parchment paper into the preheated Dutch oven. Cover and bake for 20 minutes, then remove the lid and continue baking for another 20-25 minutes until the crust is deeply golden and firm. Allow it to cool on a rack for at least one hour before slicing, so the crumb sets and the flavors develop fully.

How to Serve Pumpkin Bread

Garnishes

A lightly spread pat of softened butter or a drizzle of honey complements your Pumpkin Bread beautifully. For a touch of indulgence, try cream cheese or a cinnamon sugar sprinkle on top — these add an extra layer of flavor without overpowering the bread’s natural pumpkin goodness.

Side Dishes

This bread pairs wonderfully with hearty soups like butternut squash or tomato bisque for a cozy lunch or dinner. It’s also great alongside a fresh salad for a lighter meal. The subtle sweetness of the Pumpkin Bread balances savory dishes and adds texture to your meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Why not turn your Pumpkin Bread into delightful mini sandwiches by slicing it thinly and filling it with nut butter and fruit preserves? You could also toast thick slices and top them with mashed avocado and a pinch of chili flakes for a modern twist. Another fun idea is to cube the bread, toast gently, and toss into a savory stuffing or bread pudding.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once fully cooled, store your Pumpkin Bread wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature. It stays fresh for about 3 days, making it a perfect make-ahead treat for busy mornings or quick afternoon snacks.

Freezing

If you want to keep your Pumpkin Bread longer, freezing is your friend. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. It will keep beautifully for up to 3 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature.

Reheating

For best results, warm leftover slices in a toaster or oven to revive that fresh-baked crust and soft interior. A quick zap in the microwave works too if you’re in a hurry, but be careful not to overdo it or your bread can turn chewy.

FAQs

Can I use canned pumpkin for this Pumpkin Bread?

Yes! Canned pumpkin puree works perfectly and is actually quite convenient. Just make sure it’s pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling, which contains additional spices and sugars that can alter the recipe.

Is bread flour necessary for this recipe?

Bread flour gives this Pumpkin Bread its chewy texture and strong structure due to its higher protein content. You can substitute all-purpose flour if needed, but expect a softer crumb and less rise.

Can I add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg?

Absolutely! While the recipe highlights pumpkin’s natural flavor, adding a teaspoon of cinnamon, nutmeg, or pumpkin pie spice will make your bread even more festive and aromatic.

How do I know when the bread is fully baked?

The crust should be a rich golden brown and feel firm to the touch. For an extra check, tapping the bottom of the bread should produce a hollow sound, indicating it’s baked through.

What’s the best way to slice Pumpkin Bread?

Wait at least an hour to let the bread cool completely. Use a sharp serrated knife and slice gently with a sawing motion to keep slices clean and prevent squashing the loaf.

Final Thoughts

This Pumpkin Bread captures the magic of homemade baking with simple ingredients and straightforward steps that reward you with a loaf full of warmth and flavor. It’s a wonderful way to celebrate pumpkin season, cozy mornings, or anytime you crave a slice of comfort. I absolutely encourage you to give this recipe a try — your kitchen and taste buds will thank you!

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