Autumn Spiced Pumpkin Bread is like a warm hug on a crisp fall day. Packed with cozy spices and a subtle sweetness from maple syrup, this bread is perfect for your autumn cravings. Let's dive into the flavors of fall with this easy-to-follow recipe!
Flour is the foundation here, providing structure to the bread. We use all-purpose to keep it simple and reliable. Pumpkin puree not only gives that earthy sweetness but also adds moisture and a beautiful orange hue. Unsalted butter, melted, enriches the bread with a smooth, buttery texture. Maple syrup brings a natural sweetness that's perfectly complemented by the spices. A touch of granulated sugar balances the flavors, ensuring the sweetness is just right. Eggs act as binders, giving the bread structure and a tender crumb. Vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor profile with a hint of warmth. Baking soda helps the bread rise, ensuring it's light and fluffy. A pinch of salt enhances all the flavors, while cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger give this bread its signature autumn spice blend. Finally, chopped walnuts are optional but add a delightful crunch.
This bread is delightful on its own or with a spread of butter. For an indulgent treat, pair a warm slice with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon. It's also an excellent breakfast option with a side of Greek yogurt and a drizzle of honey.
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9x5-inch loaf pan. This ensures your bread doesn't stick and bakes evenly throughout.
In a large bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. This helps to evenly distribute the spices so that every bite is perfectly balanced.
In another bowl, combine the melted butter, maple syrup, and sugar. Whisk until well combined, then add the eggs and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and creamy. Stir in the pumpkin puree until the mixture is uniform and no streaks remain.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a tougher bread, so keep it gentle. If you're using walnuts, fold them in now for that extra crunch.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula to ensure an even bake. Pop it into the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes. You'll know it's done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This prevents it from becoming soggy and helps it firm up nicely.
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