Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping

If you’re looking for a cozy recipe that wraps you in the warm embrace of fall, then you’ve come to the right place! This Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping is a cherished favorite in my home. The scent of pumpkin spice wafting through the kitchen brings back memories of family gatherings and crisp autumn days. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something comforting, or for those lovely weekends when friends drop by for coffee.

What makes this recipe so special? It’s not just about the rich pumpkin flavor; it’s also about how simple it is to whip up. Trust me, once you try this moist bread topped with a delightful crumb topping, you’ll find yourself baking it again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in no time, making it ideal for those busy days.
• Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike love the sweet pumpkin flavor and crunchy topping.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert—enjoy it any time of day!
• Make Ahead: Bake a loaf ahead of time and freeze it for later enjoyment. It freezes beautifully!
• Fall Flavors: Embrace the season with every bite, thanks to the comforting mix of spices.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering ingredients for this Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping is part of the fun! You’ll find that these are simple, wholesome ingredients that might already be in your pantry. Let’s get started!

For the Bread

• 3 1/3 cups all purpose flour
• 1 1/2 tsp salt
• 2 tsp baking soda
• 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves
• 1/4 tsp ground allspice
• 1/4 tsp ground ginger
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 cup canola oil (or vegetable oil)
• 4 large eggs
• 1 15oz can pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
• 2/3 cup water
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Crumb Topping

• 1/2 cup butter, cold and cubed
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 3/4 cup all purpose flour
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon

Variations

One great thing about this Easy Pumpkin Bread is its flexibility! Feel free to make it your own with these fun variations:

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture.
• Mix in Chocolate Chips: Add semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips to satisfy your sweet tooth.
• Dried Fruits: Incorporate raisins or cranberries for a fruity twist.
• Swap Spices: Experiment with different spices like cardamom or even a pinch of cayenne for warmth.

How to Make Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease two 8×4 bread pans—lining them with parchment paper will help you remove the bread easily later on.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine all-purpose flour, salt, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, allspice, and ginger. Mixing these dry ingredients first ensures that everything is evenly distributed before adding wet ingredients.

Step 3: Add Sugars

Stir in granulated sugar and brown sugar until well combined. The sugars add sweetness and moisture to our pumpkin bread.

Step 4: Incorporate Oil

Make a well in the center of your dry mix and pour in the oil. Stir just until incorporated. Don’t worry if it seems dry at this stage; that’s perfectly normal!

Step 5: Beat in Eggs

Add eggs two at a time into your mixture, mixing well after each addition. This helps create an airy texture while combining everything smoothly.

Step 6: Blend in Pumpkin Mixture

Next up is adding pumpkin puree, water, and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is beautifully combined—the color should be vibrant orange!

Step 7: Divide Batter

Evenly divide your batter between the two prepared loaf pans. It’s always exciting to see how they will rise!

Step 8: Make Crumb Topping

In another bowl, mix together flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon for the topping. Cut in cold butter using a fork or pastry cutter until it looks like coarse crumbs—this will give us that irresistible crunch!

Step 9: Sprinkle Crumb Topping

Evenly sprinkle your crumb topping over both loaves before baking them into golden perfection.

Step 10: Bake It Up!

Pop those pans into your preheated oven and bake for about 55-65 minutes. Keep an eye on them; if they start browning too quickly on top, tent them with foil.

Step 11: Cool Down

Once baked through (check with a cake tester!), allow them to cool for about ten minutes before transferring them onto a wire rack. This helps prevent sogginess.

Step 12: Slice and Enjoy!

Finally! Slice into your delicious Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping and serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping

Making pumpkin bread can be a delightful experience, and a few expert tips can take your baking to the next level!

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

• Don’t overmix: When combining ingredients, mix just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can lead to dense bread instead of the light and fluffy texture we all love.

• Check for doneness: Ovens can vary in temperature. Use a toothpick or cake tester inserted into the center to check if it’s done; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.

• Experiment with add-ins: For added texture and flavor, consider folding in nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit before pouring the batter into the pans.

• Store properly: To keep your pumpkin bread moist, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil once cooled. It can be stored at room temperature for up to three days or frozen for longer enjoyment.

How to Serve Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping

Serving your delicious pumpkin bread not only elevates its appeal but also enhances the enjoyment for you and your guests. Here are some creative ideas to present this fall favorite beautifully!

Garnishes

• Whipped cream: A dollop of homemade whipped cream adds a creamy contrast to the spiced flavors of the bread.
• Pumpkin seeds: Toasted pumpkin seeds offer a delightful crunch and bring out that nutty pumpkin flavor even more.
• Cinnamon sugar dusting: A light sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on top gives an extra sweet touch that complements the crumb topping perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Cream cheese spread: A tangy cream cheese spread pairs beautifully with pumpkin bread, adding creaminess that balances out the sweetness.
• Fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad provides a bright contrast to the rich flavors of the bread. Consider using seasonal fruits like apples and pears for a fall twist.
• Hot apple cider: This warm beverage is perfect alongside pumpkin bread, enhancing those cozy autumn vibes while providing a comforting drink option.
• Yogurt parfait: Layering yogurt with granola and fresh fruits creates a delightful side dish that complements the moistness of the bread while adding some crunch.

Enjoy crafting your perfect serving style and watching everyone delight in this Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping! Whether it’s for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack, this recipe is sure to impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping is fantastic for meal prep! It’s perfect for making ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Here are some tips on storing, freezing, and reheating your delicious loaves.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• For longer storage, freeze the cooled bread.
• Wrap each loaf tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Label with the date and type of bread for easy identification.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen bread overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature for a few hours.
• Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
• Place the thawed loaf on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes, until warmed through.
• Alternatively, slice and microwave individual pieces for about 20-30 seconds.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delightful pumpkin bread.

Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree?

No, it’s best to use plain pumpkin puree for this Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping. Pumpkin pie filling contains added spices and sugars that can alter the flavor and texture of your bread.

How do I ensure my Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping stays moist?

To keep your pumpkin bread moist, be careful not to over-mix the batter, as this can make it dense. Also, using fresh ingredients like canned pumpkin puree and ensuring proper storage will help maintain its moisture.

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

Absolutely! Feel free to fold in nuts like walnuts or pecans, or even chocolate chips if you want a sweeter twist. Just remember that any additions may affect baking time slightly.

How long does it take to bake the Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping?

Typically, this recipe takes about 55-65 minutes at 350 degrees F. Always check with a cake tester; if it comes out clean, your bread is ready!

Final Thoughts

I hope you feel inspired to whip up this Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping! It’s a delightful blend of warm spices and sweet goodness that perfectly captures the essence of fall. Whether you’re sharing with friends or enjoying it on your own, this recipe is sure to bring comfort and joy. Happy baking, and don’t forget to savor every slice!