Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

If you’re looking for the perfect treat to welcome the fall season, this Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is just what you need! This delightful loaf is packed with warm spices and that unmistakable pumpkin flavor, making it a favorite in my home. It’s not just a recipe; it’s a cozy hug in a slice. Whether you’re whipping it up for a busy weeknight snack or sharing it at family gatherings, this bread hits all the right notes. And let’s be honest—who can resist a sweet, creamy frosting on top?

So grab your mixing bowl and let’s dive into this delicious recipe that’s sure to become a cherished staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This pumpkin bread comes together quickly with simple steps, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Family Favorite: The moist texture and sweet cream cheese frosting will have everyone asking for seconds.
• Versatile: Enjoy it as breakfast, an afternoon snack, or dessert—it fits any occasion!
• Make Ahead: Bake it in advance and store it; it tastes even better the next day!
• Deliciously Spiced: The blend of spices creates a comforting aroma that fills your home with warmth.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple and wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Each one plays a role in creating that moist texture and rich flavor we all love. Let’s gather everything we need!

For the 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 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 things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to make these fun adjustments based on your taste preferences or what you have on hand.

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
• Dried Fruits: Include raisins or dried cranberries for a fruity twist.
• Spice It Up: Experiment with other spices like cardamom or allspice to create your own signature flavor.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to accommodate dietary needs.

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). Preheating ensures your pumpkin bread bakes evenly and rises perfectly!

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, spices, and salt. This step is key because mixing them separately helps distribute the leavening agents evenly throughout the batter.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together the canola oil, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract until well combined. This mixture will provide moisture and sweetness to your bread.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined—be careful not to overmix! Overmixing can lead to dense bread instead of fluffy loaves.

Step 5: Bake Your Bread

Pour the batter into a greased 9×5 loaf pan. Bake for about 55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The wonderful aroma will fill your kitchen—enjoy every moment!

Step 6: Prepare Cream Cheese Frosting

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

Step 7: Frost and Serve

Once cooled completely, spread the cream cheese frosting over your pumpkin bread generously. Slice up this delectable treat and enjoy with friends or family—or savor it all by yourself!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Baking pumpkin bread is a delightful experience, and these tips will help you achieve the perfect loaf every time!

• Use fresh spices: Freshly ground spices can make a noticeable difference in flavor. They tend to be more aromatic and potent than pre-ground spices, elevating your pumpkin bread to new heights.

• Room temperature ingredients: Ensuring that your eggs and cream cheese are at room temperature allows for better incorporation into the batter. This leads to a smoother texture and improves the overall rise of the bread.

• Don’t overmix: Mixing too much can develop gluten in the flour, resulting in a denser loaf. Mix just until the ingredients are combined for a light and fluffy texture.

• Check for doneness: Use a toothpick inserted into the center of the bread; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. This will ensure that your bread is perfectly baked without being dry.

• Cool before frosting: Allow your pumpkin bread to cool completely before adding the cream cheese frosting. This prevents the frosting from melting off and ensures a beautiful presentation.

How to Serve Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

This pumpkin bread is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it perfect for various occasions. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, as an afternoon snack, or dessert, here are some ideas on how to present this charming loaf.

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some chopped walnuts or pecans on top of the frosting for added crunch and flavor.
• Cinnamon dusting: A light dusting of cinnamon on top of the frosted loaf adds warmth and enhances its inviting appearance.
• Candied ginger: For an extra touch of sweetness and spice, consider adding finely chopped candied ginger as a garnish.

Side Dishes

• Hot tea: A warm cup of herbal tea complements the spices in pumpkin bread beautifully, creating a cozy afternoon treat.
• Apple slices with caramel dip: The crispness of fresh apple slices paired with sweet caramel provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the pumpkin bread.
• Coffee: A classic pairing! The robust flavors of coffee balance out the sweetness of both the bread and frosting, making it an ideal breakfast or brunch option.
• Yogurt parfait: Serve with layers of yogurt and granola for a balanced meal that adds protein and crunch alongside your sweet treat.

Enjoy baking this delightful Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting recipe! It’s sure to become a favorite in your home throughout autumn and beyond.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, allowing the flavors to develop even more. Plus, it stores beautifully, making it a fantastic option for busy mornings or sweet afternoon snacks.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Slice the pumpkin bread before freezing for easy portioning.
• Wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap or place them in freezer bags.
• Label the bags with the date and type of bread.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat slices, unwrap and place them on a microwave-safe plate.
• Heat in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or until warm.
• For a crispier texture, reheat in a toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned for the Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe?

Absolutely! If you prefer using fresh pumpkin, simply roast and puree it until smooth. Just make sure you have about 1¼ cups of puree, as it will yield similar results.

What can I substitute for cream cheese in the Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe?

If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can use vegan cream cheese or a mixture of silken tofu blended until creamy. This will give you a similar texture and flavor!

How should I store my Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting?

Store your pumpkin bread by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or keeping it in an airtight container. It can last at room temperature for up to three days or up to a week in the fridge.

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

Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup like regular flour. Just be sure to check that your baking powder and other ingredients are also gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in baking this delightful Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting! It’s not only moist and flavorful but also brings cozy fall vibes right into your kitchen. Whether enjoyed as breakfast, dessert, or a sweet afternoon treat, it’s sure to become a favorite. Happy baking, and I can’t wait for you to try this recipe!