Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bread Recipe

If you’re searching for that perfect fall treat to cozy up your kitchen and warm your heart, look no further than this Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bread Recipe. This delightful loaf combines the rich, earthy sweetness of pumpkin with the spicy warmth of cinnamon and other fragrant spices, all topped with a crunchy cinnamon sugar sprinkle that takes every bite to a new level of yum. It’s soft, moist, and bursting with comforting flavors that make it an instant favorite for breakfast, snack time, or dessert. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become your go-to pumpkin bread for every season, not just autumn.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of the Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bread Recipe lies in its simplicity and accessibility. Each ingredient plays a vital role in layering flavors, enhancing texture, and bringing that perfect autumn color to your loaf. Whether it’s the warm spices, the creamy pumpkin puree, or the cinnamon sugar topping, every component is essential for that signature taste and cozy feel.

• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour: The base of the bread, providing structure and tenderness.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a moist crumb.
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed: Brings a deep, caramel-like richness to the batter.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the bread rise and become wonderfully fluffy.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: Adds a gentle lift and lightness to the texture.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances out sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: The star spice that infuses warmth and cozy vibes.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds a subtle nutty spice note that complements pumpkin beautifully.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger: Gives a slight zing and brightens the flavor profile.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves: Provides a deep, aromatic spice that rounds out the blend.
• 3/4 cup canned pumpkin puree: Brings moisture, natural sweetness, and that gorgeous orange hue.
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil: Keeps the bread moist and tender, unlike butter it won’t make it dense.
• 2 large eggs: Bind everything together and add richness.
• 1/4 cup milk: Adds moisture and helps create a soft crumb.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the sweetness and flavor complexity.
• 3 tablespoons granulated sugar (for topping): Creates a sweet, crunchy crust.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for topping): Infuses the top with that irresistible cinnamon crunch.

How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bread Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan to ensure the bread bakes evenly and releases easily from the pan. This step sets the stage for that beautiful, caramelized crust we all love.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together all your dry ingredients: the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. This blend of spices and leavening agents creates the flavor foundation and helps the bread rise perfectly.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk the pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, eggs, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and well incorporated. This mixture adds moisture, richness, and that signature pumpkin flavor we adore.

Step 4: Bring Wet and Dry Together

Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix here — you want a tender crumb, not a tough loaf. A few lumps are perfectly fine!

Step 5: Prepare the Batter for Baking

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and use a spatula to spread it evenly. This ensures your bread bakes uniformly and looks inviting.

Step 6: Create the Cinnamon Sugar Topping

In a small bowl, mix together the extra granulated sugar and cinnamon. This finishing touch will give your bread that irresistible sweet and spicy crust once baked.

Step 7: Sprinkle the Topping

Evenly sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over the top of the batter in the pan. This simple step makes all the difference by adding a delightful crunch and enhancing the overall flavor.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Place your loaf pan in the oven and bake for 55 to 65 minutes. You’ll know the bread is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. This slow, steady baking process lets the flavors deepen and the texture become perfectly moist and tender.

Step 9: Cool Before Slicing

Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents the bread from breaking apart when slicing and lets it finish setting beautifully.

How to Serve Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bread Recipe

Garnishes

One of the joys of serving this Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bread Recipe is how many ways you can dress it up. A light spread of softened butter or cream cheese frosting adds a luscious creaminess that complements the spicy, sweet bread perfectly. For extra flair, sprinkle a few chopped pecans or a drizzle of maple syrup on top before serving.

Side Dishes

This pumpkin bread pairs beautifully with a warm cup of coffee, chai tea, or even a pumpkin spice latte for a truly seasonal treat. If you’re serving it as part of brunch or dessert, fresh fruit like apples or pears can add a refreshing contrast. For a cozy fall breakfast, try it alongside scrambled eggs and crispy bacon.

Creative Ways to Present

Make your Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bread Recipe stand out visually by slicing it thick and serving it on a rustic wooden board surrounded by fall leaves or mini pumpkins. You can also toast slices lightly and serve with a dollop of mascarpone and a sprinkle of toasted nuts for an elegant twist. Wrapping slices in parchment paper and tying with twine makes a charming homemade gift for friends and family.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your freshly baked pumpkin bread, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days to keep it moist and flavorful. If your kitchen is warm, storing it in the refrigerator helps extend freshness for about a week, just be aware it might firm up slightly.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy this Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bread Recipe later, freezing is a fantastic option. Wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil or place individual slices in freezer bags. Frozen pumpkin bread can last up to three months and thaws quickly at room temperature or in the fridge overnight.

Reheating

To enjoy your pumpkin bread warm and fresh-tasting, reheat slices in a preheated 325°F oven for about 10 minutes or pop them in the toaster oven until just warmed through. This revives the soft texture and enhances those spicy aromas, making every bite taste like it just came out of the oven.

FAQs

Can I substitute fresh pumpkin for canned in this recipe?

Absolutely! Fresh pumpkin puree can be used, but be sure to cook and strain it well to remove excess moisture. This will help maintain the bread’s texture and cooking time.

What if I don’t have all the spices listed?

You can adjust the spice blend based on what you have on hand. Cinnamon is essential, but nutmeg, ginger, and cloves can be swapped out or reduced. The bread will still taste delicious, just less complex in flavor.

Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free baking?

To make it gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. You might need to add a bit more moisture or an extra egg to get the right texture.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to the batter?

Yes! Fold in about 1/2 cup of chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans, or chocolate chips, for an added crunch or sweet surprise without changing the baking time significantly.

How do I know when the bread is fully baked?

The best way is to insert a toothpick or thin skewer into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, your bread is perfectly baked and ready to enjoy.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about this Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bread Recipe that brings comfort and joy with every bite. Whether you’re making it for a festive gathering, a cozy weekend breakfast, or just because you deserve a sweet treat, this recipe is always a winner. Give it a try, and I promise you’ll be reaching for it again and again as your new favorite go-to pumpkin bread.

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