Cozy Pumpkin Bread Recipe: Perfect for Fall Baking, Gifting, and Thanksgiving
There is something about the smell of pumpkin baking in the oven that makes a house feel instantly cozy. The warm, sweet aroma, a hint of cinnamon and nutmeg, and the thought of slicing a loaf to share with someone you love make fall feel so special.
I recently baked this pumpkin bread recipe, and it quickly became a new favorite in my home. It is simple, forgiving, and utterly comforting. Soft, moist, and spiced just right, it is perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or adding a sweet touch to your Thanksgiving table. And the best part? It makes an effortless homemade gift for friends, neighbors, or family during the Holiday season.
Looking for more cozy fall recipes to fill your kitchen with warmth? Click below to discover all my favorite seasonal treats.
Key Flavor Notes
- Warm spices: Cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves give this bread that classic pumpkin flavor that feels cozy in every bite.
- Balanced sweetness: A combination of granulated sugar and brown sugar creates depth without being overly sweet.
- Moist texture: Pumpkin puree and oil make the bread soft and tender, keeping it delicious for days.
- Optional mix-ins: Chocolate chips, pepitas, walnuts, or dried cranberries add variety and a little extra indulgence.
Ingredients
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: ½ cup chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried cranberries
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, beat granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, pumpkin puree, oil, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Mix Together: Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Fold in any optional mix-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or dried cranberries.
- Bake: Pour batter into prepared pan. Bake 60–70 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
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Cozy Pumpkin Bread Recipe
Equipment
- 1 bread loaf pan
- 2 mixing bowls
- 1 Whisk
- measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/2 tsp ground cloves
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried cranberries *optional
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
- In a large bowl, beat granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, pumpkin puree, oil, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Gradually stir dry ingredients into wet mixture until just combined. Fold in optional mix-ins if using.
- Pour batter into prepared pan. Bake 60–70 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let bread cool in pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy!
Notes
- Bake mini loaves instead of one large loaf and wrap each in parchment paper tied with twine and a sprig of dried herbs or cinnamon sticks.
- Add a handwritten tag with a short note or serving suggestion for a personal touch.
- Pair with a small jar of homemade spice mix or local honey for a thoughtful holiday basket.
- This pumpkin bread is perfect alongside a hot cup of coffee, chai, or spiced tea.
- Warm a slice and add a little butter or cream cheese for an extra cozy treat.
- It also tastes even better the next day once the flavors have deepened.
- Slice and serve on a rustic platter with softened butter or cinnamon maple butter.
- Offer it as part of a brunch spread or dessert table for guests who prefer something lighter than pie.
- You can even cube it and use it in a fall-inspired trifle with whipped cream and caramel drizzle.
Perfect for Fall Gatherings and Holiday Gifting
This pumpkin bread is a wonderful treat for sharing. Bring a loaf to Thanksgiving, serve slices with coffee during a fall brunch, or surprise a friend with a homemade gift this season. Wrap it in parchment, tie it with twine (I think this twine adds a festive touch!), and add a little note for a heartfelt touch. Throw it in a pumpkin-themed gift basket with a few Brown Butter Pumpkin Cookies, and a little jar of homemade pumpkin pie spice! I personally love these little containers that look like Christmas lights!
It also makes a cozy at-home treat. Slice a warm piece with butter, pour a cup of tea, and enjoy a quiet moment to yourself. This bread brings comfort in every slice.
Pumpkin Bread Q&A
Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
A: Yes. Swap all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. The texture may differ slightly, but the flavor will still be amazing.
Q: How long does pumpkin bread stay fresh?
A: Store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. It also freezes beautifully for up to 3 months.
Q: Can I use homemade pumpkin puree?
A: Absolutely. Just make sure it is drained well to avoid adding extra moisture to the bread.
Q: Can I add mix-ins?
A: Yes. Chocolate chips, nuts, or dried cranberries all make wonderful additions. Fold them in gently before baking.
Q: How do I know when it is done?
A: Insert a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, it is ready.
Final Thoughts
This pumpkin bread is a fall favorite for good reason. It is simple, comforting, and versatile enough for gifting, gatherings, or cozy mornings at home. Baking it fills your kitchen with the aroma of fall, and each slice tastes like a warm hug.
I hope this recipe brings a little extra coziness to your season. Enjoy baking, sharing, and savoring it with the people you love.
Warmly,
Bri
More Seasonal Recipes to Try
Keep the cozy vibes going with more of my favorite fall recipes. From spiced muffins to hearty soups and sweet treats, these seasonal favorites are perfect for baking, brunch, or a cozy afternoon snack.
Cozy Fall Home Décor Ideas On Amazon
Bring the warmth of autumn into every corner of your home. Explore simple seasonal touches and cozy accents that make your space feel inviting all fall long.
Let’s Stay Connected!
I would love for you to stay connected with me beyond the blog. Follow along on social media for cozy recipes, updates on our manor renovation, and little glimpses of life as we build our dream homestead. I share inspiration, behind-the-scenes moments, and plenty of seasonal joy that I know you will enjoy.
