If you're dreaming of cozy fall days and the comforting aroma of spices wafting through your kitchen, this Spiced Pumpkin Bread with Maple Glaze is just the ticket. It's a delightful blend of pumpkin and warm spices, topped with a luscious maple glaze that brings everything together.
Let's break down what makes this pumpkin bread shine. Flour forms the base, giving structure to our bread. We use a combination of baking soda and baking powder to ensure it rises beautifully. A touch of salt balances the flavors, while cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger create the warm, spicy notes that scream autumn. Granulated sugar sweetens the deal, and butter adds richness. Eggs help bind everything together, while pumpkin puree brings moisture and depth. A splash of milk smooths the batter, and a hint of vanilla extract rounds out the flavor profile. For the glaze, powdered sugar and maple syrup combine for a sweet, pourable topping that's hard to resist.
This bread is a treat on its own, but for a heartier breakfast, serve it with a dollop of whipped cream cheese. If you're going the dessert route, a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side pairs wonderfully. For a cozy afternoon, enjoy a slice with a hot cup of chai tea.
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a 9x5-inch loaf pan and give it a good greasing, so your bread slides out with ease later on. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and those wonderful spices—cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger. This ensures they're evenly distributed throughout your bread.
In another bowl, beat the sugar and melted butter until smooth. This creaming step is crucial for a tender crumb. Add your eggs one at a time, mixing well after each to fully incorporate them. Stir in the pumpkin puree, milk, and vanilla extract until everything is well combined.
Now, gradually add your dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir until just combined—overmixing can make your bread tough, and nobody wants that. Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top to ensure even baking.
Pop it in the oven for 55-65 minutes. It's done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps it firm up a bit, making it easier to handle.
Once cooled, whisk together the powdered sugar, maple syrup, and enough milk to create a smooth glaze. Drizzle it generously over your bread, letting it cascade down the sides for that bakery-style look. Slice, serve, and enjoy!