Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy and comforting treat that captures the essence of fall, then you’ve come to the right place! This Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is one of my all-time favorites. The moment I take a bite, I’m transported to crisp autumn afternoons, with leaves crunching underfoot and warm spices wafting through the air. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want to enjoy something homemade or for family gatherings where everyone will gather around to savor a slice (or two!).

What makes this recipe special is its delightful combination of pumpkin and spices, topped off with a creamy and tangy frosting that takes it over the top. Whether you’re making it for breakfast or as a dessert, this pumpkin bread is sure to be a hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With just a handful of simple steps, you’ll have this delicious pumpkin bread baking in no time.
• Family favorite: The warm spices and sweet cream cheese frosting appeal to both kids and adults alike.
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a cozy weekend brunch, this recipe fits right in.
• Make-ahead option: Bake it in advance and store it for those busy days when you need a quick treat.
• Mouthwatering flavor: Each bite is bursting with the comforting tastes of pumpkin and spice, leaving everyone wanting more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! They are simple and wholesome, making this recipe easy to whip up anytime you want a taste of fall.

For the Pumpkin 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

Variations

This pumpkin bread recipe is quite flexible! Here are some fun variations you can try:

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
• Include chocolate chips: Stir in semi-sweet chocolate chips for a sweet twist that everyone will love.
• Spice it up: Experiment with different spices like allspice or replace some of the cinnamon with pumpkin pie spice for extra warmth.
• Make muffins: Instead of a loaf, pour the batter into muffin tins for quick grab-and-go treats!

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 that your bread bakes evenly from the moment it goes in. While that’s heating up, grease your 9×5 loaf pan so your bread won’t stick.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, spices, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients first helps distribute the leavening agent evenly throughout your batter. It also releases those wonderful spice aromas that get you excited about baking!

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another large bowl, beat together the canola oil, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, eggs, pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract until smooth. This step creates a lovely base full of moisture and flavor. The richness from the sugars combined with pumpkin will give your bread that wonderful texture.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients. Stir until just combined; be careful not to overmix! Overmixing can lead to dense bread rather than the fluffy loaf we all desire.

Step 5: Bake Your Bread

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth out the top. Bake in your preheated oven for about 55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Your kitchen will fill with an irresistible aroma—this is when patience may become difficult!

Step 6: Prepare Cream Cheese Frosting

While your bread cools on a wire rack, let’s make that creamy frosting! In a mixing bowl, combine room-temperature cream cheese and butter. Beat until fluffy before adding vanilla extract and powdered sugar. Add milk gradually until you reach your desired consistency—you want it spreadable but not too runny!

Step 7: Frost Your Pumpkin Bread

Once your pumpkin bread has completely cooled down, generously frost it with your cream cheese mixture. The sweetness of the frosting beautifully complements the spiced flavors of the bread.

And there you have it—your own delicious Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe! Enjoy every slice with friends or family; they won’t be able to resist coming back for more!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Baking is all about having fun and experimenting, so here are some friendly tips to ensure your pumpkin bread turns out perfectly!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing eggs and cream cheese to room temperature helps them blend more easily, resulting in a smoother batter and frosting. This can improve the overall texture of your bread.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Mixing just until combined creates a tender loaf. Overmixing can lead to a denser texture, which we want to avoid for that light and fluffy pumpkin bread.

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

• Let it cool completely before frosting: Allowing your pumpkin bread to cool fully prevents the frosting from melting off when you spread it on top. This way, you’ll have a beautiful presentation!

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the spice levels according to your preference! Adding a pinch of cayenne for warmth or extra cinnamon can personalize the flavor profile of your pumpkin bread.

How to Serve Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Serving this delightful pumpkin bread is just as fun as baking it. It’s perfect for gatherings or cozy mornings at home!

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some chopped pecans or walnuts on top of the frosting for added crunch and flavor.
• Cinnamon sprinkle: A light dusting of ground cinnamon adds both visual appeal and enhances the warm spice notes in your bread.
• Pumpkin seeds: Toasted pumpkin seeds make for a fantastic garnish that adds texture and complements the pumpkin flavor beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits like apples, pears, and berries balances out the sweetness of the pumpkin bread.
• Yogurt parfait: Layer natural yogurt with granola and fruits for a creamy, crunchy side that pairs wonderfully with the spiced bread.
• Herbal tea: Serve with a warm cup of chamomile or chai tea to enhance those cozy fall vibes while enjoying your sweet treat.
• Coffee: A rich cup of coffee not only complements the flavors but also makes this dish perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack.

Enjoy every bite of this moist Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting! It’s sure to become a seasonal favorite in your home. Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting is perfect for meal prep! You can bake it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week, making breakfast or dessert a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the cooled pumpkin bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• If you have leftover cream cheese frosting, keep it in a sealed container in the fridge for up to a week.

Freezing

• Slice the pumpkin bread and wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 3 months.
• For frosting, store it in an airtight container and freeze for about a month.

Reheating

• To reheat, simply thaw the desired number of slices at room temperature or microwave them for about 15-20 seconds.
• If using frozen frosting, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before using it again.

FAQs

Have questions? Here are some common queries about making this delicious Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe!

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?

Yes! You can use fresh pumpkin. Just cook, puree, and strain it to achieve the right consistency.

What is the best way to frost my Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting?

For beautiful results, use a spatula or knife to spread the cream cheese frosting evenly on top of the cooled loaf. You can also pipe it on for extra flair!

How do I know when my Pumpkin Bread is done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, your bread is ready!

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to this Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips for added texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe as much as I do! It’s warm, comforting, and perfect for sharing with family and friends. Don’t hesitate to try adding your own twists! Happy baking!