Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

This Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is a delightful treat that captures the essence of fall. It’s perfect for breakfast, dessert, or any gathering where you want to impress your guests with a moist, flavorful loaf. The combination of pumpkin and spices creates an irresistible aroma, while the creamy frosting adds a sweet and tangy finish. Whether you’re enjoying a cozy morning at home or celebrating a special occasion, this pumpkin bread will surely be a hit.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Moist Texture: The use of canned pumpkin puree ensures a soft, moist loaf that stays fresh for days.
• Rich Flavor: A blend of warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg elevates the taste, making every bite comforting.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as breakfast with coffee or as a dessert topped with cream cheese frosting.
• Seasonal Delight: This recipe is ideal for fall celebrations and holiday gatherings, bringing seasonal flavors to your table.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious pumpkin bread, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen. Having the right equipment makes the baking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk
• Loaf pan (9×5)
• Electric mixer (optional)
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: These are crucial for combining dry and wet ingredients without spilling.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements ensure consistent results every time you bake.
• Electric mixer: While optional, it can make mixing the frosting quicker and easier, saving you time in the kitchen.

Ingredients

To prepare your Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting, gather the following ingredients:

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 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

How to Make Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures that your pumpkin bread bakes evenly.

Step 2: Prepare Your Loaf Pan

Grease your 9×5 inch loaf pan with non-stick spray or butter to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Combine flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, cardamom, and salt.
2. Whisk until well blended.

Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl:
1. Whisk together canola oil, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and eggs until smooth.
2. Stir in pumpkin puree and vanilla extract until fully combined.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients:
1. Stir gently using a spatula until just combined.
2. Be careful not to overmix; some lumps are okay.

Step 6: Bake the Bread

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan:
1. Bake for 55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
2. Let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a cooling rack.

Step 7: Prepare Cream Cheese Frosting

While your pumpkin bread cools:
1. In a medium bowl using an electric mixer (or by hand), beat cream cheese and butter until smooth.
2. Add vanilla extract and powdered sugar slowly until well combined.
3. Adjust consistency with milk if needed.

Step 8: Frost the Bread

Once cooled completely:
1. Spread the cream cheese frosting generously over the top of your pumpkin bread.
2. Slice and enjoy!

This Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household!

How to Serve Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

This delicious Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting is a versatile treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether for breakfast, dessert, or a snack, here are some delightful serving suggestions.

With a Cup of Coffee

• Enjoy a slice alongside your favorite coffee for a perfect morning boost.

As an Afternoon Snack

• Pair it with tea or herbal infusions for a cozy afternoon pick-me-up.

For Breakfast

• Serve warm slices topped with extra cream cheese frosting and fresh fruit for a nourishing start to your day.

At Gatherings

• Cut into bite-sized pieces and serve as part of a dessert platter during family gatherings or festive occasions.

With Ice Cream

• Top warm pumpkin bread with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

To ensure your Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting turns out perfectly every time, follow these tips:

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your eggs and cream cheese are at room temperature. This helps the ingredients blend smoothly.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mix just until combined to keep your bread light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to dense bread.
• Check for Doneness Early: Start checking your bread about 5 minutes before the recommended baking time. A toothpick should come out clean when it’s done.
• Store Properly: Keep leftover pumpkin bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Pumpkin Bread pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that enhance its flavors. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and freshness, complementing the spices in the bread.
2. Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for added texture and protein that balances the sweetness of the pumpkin bread.
3. Nutty Granola: Serve crunchy granola on the side for a satisfying crunch that contrasts nicely with the soft bread.
4. Chai-Spiced Tea: The warm spices in chai tea will echo the flavors of the pumpkin bread, making it a comforting pairing.
5. Maple Syrup Drizzle: A light drizzle of maple syrup enhances sweetness without overpowering the pumpkin flavor.
6. Cinnamon Sugar Toast: Toasted slices of bread sprinkled with cinnamon sugar provide an extra sweet treat alongside your pumpkin bread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can be tricky, especially with a delicious recipe like Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the room temperature ingredients: Using cold eggs or cream cheese can lead to an uneven batter. Always bring your ingredients to room temperature for better mixing.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too vigorously can create a dense bread. Stir just until combined to keep it light and fluffy.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Incorrect measurements can ruin your recipe. Use a kitchen scale or proper measuring cups for precision.
• Ignoring the oven temperature: Every oven is different, and incorrect temperatures can affect baking time. Invest in an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy.
• Forgetting to check for doneness: Relying solely on time can lead to undercooked or burnt bread. Use a toothpick inserted into the center; it should come out clean when done.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Wrap slices individually if you want easy grab-and-go options.

Freezing Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

• Freeze in an airtight container or tightly wrap in plastic wrap for up to 3 months.
• Slice before freezing for easy thawing.

Reheating Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Wrap in foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices for about 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place in a pan on low heat, cover, and warm gently for a few minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making the Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting recipe:

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin puree! Just make sure it’s well-cooked and blended until smooth.

How do I make Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting gluten-free?

Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup, ensuring it’s suitable for baking.

What can I use if I don’t have cream cheese?

You could substitute cream cheese with a plant-based cream cheese alternative or even mascarpone cheese for a similar texture.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Chopped walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips make great additions to this moist pumpkin bread recipe.

Final Thoughts

This Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. It’s perfect as a breakfast treat or dessert at any gathering. Feel free to customize it by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or spices according to your taste. Enjoy baking this delightful loaf!