Maple Pumpkin Bread

If you’re looking for a cozy recipe that fills your kitchen with the warm aroma of fall, then this Maple Pumpkin Bread is just what you need! It’s rich, flavorful, and oh-so-simple to make. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet morning at home or hosting family gatherings, this bread is perfect for any occasion. Each slice is loaded with pumpkin goodness, warm spices, and a hint of maple that makes it truly special.

What I love about this Maple Pumpkin Bread is its versatility. You can whip it up on a busy weeknight or prepare it ahead of time for a weekend brunch. Plus, it’s wonderful served warm with a cup of coffee or tea. Trust me; your loved ones will be asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, baking this delightful bread is a breeze!
• Family Favorite: The delicious flavors of pumpkin and maple appeal to all ages—kids and adults alike will love it.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can bake this bread in advance and enjoy it throughout the week. It freezes well too!
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of warm spices and maple syrup creates an irresistible taste that’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple and wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Let’s gather everything we need to create this scrumptious Maple Pumpkin Bread!

For the Topping

• ½ cup finely chopped pecan or walnuts
• 3 tablespoons brown sugar (packed)
• ¼ cup all purpose flour
• ¾ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)

For the Bread

• 1-¾ cups all purpose flour
• 1½ teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
• 2 teaspoons cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup canola or vegetable oil
• 1-¼ cups canned pumpkin puree
• ¼ cup milk
• 1¼ teaspoons maple extract

For the Glaze

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk
• ¼ teaspoon maple extract

Variations

The beauty of this Maple Pumpkin Bread lies in its flexibility! Here are some fun ideas to customize your loaf:

• Add Chocolate Chips: Stir in some semi-sweet chocolate chips for a decadent twist.
• Include Dried Fruit: Toss in raisins or cranberries for added texture and sweetness.
• Spice it Up: Experiment with nutmeg or ginger along with the pumpkin pie spice for more depth of flavor.
• Make It Vegan: Substitute the eggs with flax eggs and use plant-based milk to make this bread vegan-friendly.

How to Make Maple Pumpkin Bread

Step 1: Prepare the Topping

In a small bowl, combine the chopped nuts, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, salt, and melted butter. Mix until crumbly. This topping will add a buttery crunch that perfectly complements the soft bread beneath.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients ensures an even distribution of flavors throughout your Maple Pumpkin Bread.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, beat together the eggs and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Then add in the oil, pumpkin puree, milk, and maple extract. This mixture infuses your bread with moisture and sweetness.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients. Stir gently until just combined; be careful not to overmix! This step is key to achieving that lovely tender crumb we all adore in baked goods.

Step 5: Bake

Pour half of your batter into a greased loaf pan and sprinkle half of the nut topping on top. Add the remaining batter followed by the rest of the topping. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Step 6: Prepare the Glaze

While your loaf cools down slightly, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and maple extract in a small bowl until smooth. Drizzle over your warm Maple Pumpkin Bread for an extra touch of sweetness!

And there you have it! Your homemade Maple Pumpkin Bread is ready to be enjoyed—slice it up and share with friends or savor it all by yourself!

Pro Tips for Making Maple Pumpkin Bread

Baking can feel intimidating, but with these helpful tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating the perfect Maple Pumpkin Bread!

• Use fresh ingredients: Ensuring your baking powder, spices, and canned pumpkin are fresh will make a noticeable difference in flavor and texture.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Mixing just until the dry ingredients are combined helps to keep your bread light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture.
• Check for doneness: Ovens can vary, so start checking your bread about 5 minutes earlier than the suggested bake time. Use a toothpick inserted into the center; if it comes out clean, it’s done!
• Let it cool completely: Allowing your bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack ensures that it holds its shape and prevents sogginess.
• Store properly: Keep your Maple Pumpkin Bread wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or foil at room temperature for up to three days or freeze it for longer storage. This keeps it moist and delicious!

How to Serve Maple Pumpkin Bread

Serving your Maple Pumpkin Bread can be just as fun as making it! Here are some delightful ideas to elevate your dish.

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: Sprinkling some finely chopped pecans or walnuts on top adds a lovely crunch and enhances the nutty flavor of the bread.
• Maple glaze: Drizzle a simple maple glaze made from powdered sugar mixed with milk and maple extract over the top for an extra sweet touch.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A mix of seasonal fruits complements the warm spices in the bread, providing a refreshing contrast.
• Yogurt parfait: Layering Greek yogurt with granola and berries creates a satisfying combination that balances the sweetness of the bread.
• Herbal tea: A warm cup of herbal tea pairs beautifully with Maple Pumpkin Bread, enhancing its cozy flavors while providing a soothing experience.
• Cream cheese spread: Whip up a creamy spread infused with maple syrup for slathering on each slice—it’s like a sweet frosting that elevates every bite.

Enjoy sharing this comforting treat with friends and family during breakfast or as an afternoon snack!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Maple Pumpkin Bread is perfect for meal prep! Whether you’re planning for breakfast, snacks, or a cozy dessert, making this bread ahead of time can save you effort during busy weekdays.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the bread to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

• Slice the cooled bread if you prefer individual portions.
• Wrap each slice in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight freezer bag.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Label with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating

• Thaw slices overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• For quick warming, place slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds.
• Alternatively, warm in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Maple Pumpkin Bread that might help you out!

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?

Yes! If you have fresh pumpkin, you can roast it and blend it into a smooth puree. Just ensure it’s well-drained to avoid adding excess moisture to your batter.

How do I make my Maple Pumpkin Bread even more flavorful?

You can enhance the flavors by adding chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits like cranberries. A sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on top before baking also adds a delightful crunch!

How should I store my Maple Pumpkin Bread?

Store your Maple Pumpkin Bread wrapped tightly at room temperature for a few days or refrigerate it for up to a week. It also freezes well for longer storage!

Can I substitute maple extract with something else?

If you don’t have maple extract, vanilla extract can be used as an alternative. However, it will alter the flavor profile slightly.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Maple Pumpkin Bread as much as I do! Its rich flavors and cozy aroma are sure to bring warmth to your kitchen and smiles to your table. Don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite mix-ins and share this recipe with friends and family. Happy baking!