The moment I took my first bite of Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bread, I was transported to a cozy autumn afternoon filled with golden leaves and the warm glow of home. This easy-to-make loaf, packed with the rich sweetness of pumpkin, enveloped in a delightful blend of spices, is perfect for any occasion. With just a quick 15-minute prep time, it’s beginner-friendly and a wonderful way to bring a touch of homemade joy to your kitchen. Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt to any dietary needs, including a gluten-free option! Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, as an afternoon snack, or a comforting dessert, this bread is sure to impress. What’s your favorite twist to add to pumpkin bread? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!
Why is Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bread a Must-Try?
Warm, Cozy Vibes: The blend of cinnamon and pumpkin creates an irresistible aroma that fills your kitchen, evoking the perfect autumn atmosphere.
Beginner-Friendly: With only 15 minutes of prep time, even novice bakers can achieve this delightful loaf.
Versatile Delight: Feel free to add your favorites like nuts or chocolate chips to customize your bread. It’s adaptable to fit dietary preferences, so everyone can enjoy!
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert, this bread is a treat that your friends and family will love. Serve it warm with butter or as a sweet pairing with coffee!
Easy Storage: Enjoy fresh slices for days, or freeze for future cozy moments. No need to rush through this indulgence!
Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bread Ingredients
For the Batter
• All-Purpose Flour – This forms the bread‘s foundation; swap for gluten-free flour for a gluten-free alternative.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the loaf and enhances a beautiful crust.
• Brown Sugar – Adds moisture and deeper flavor; can double down with more granulated sugar if necessary.
• Baking Soda – Essential for leavening; ensure it’s fresh for optimal rise to your cinnamon sugar pumpkin bread.
• Baking Powder – Works alongside baking soda for extra lift; check the expiration date for best results.
• Salt – Balances the sweetness, enhancing every delightful bite.
• Ground Cinnamon – The signature spice that brings warmth and comfort to the recipe.
• Ground Nutmeg – Adds a hint of nutty sweetness that complements pumpkin beautifully.
• Ground Ginger – Provides a little spice and brightness that tantalizes the taste buds.
• Ground Cloves – Contributes depth to the spiced flavor profile; feel free to adjust based on your preference.
• Canned Pumpkin Puree – Key for moisture and rich flavor; fresh pumpkin can work with a bit more prep.
• Vegetable Oil – Keeps the bread soft and moist; melted butter makes an excellent substitute for added richness.
• Large Eggs – Binds everything together and provides necessary structure.
• Milk – Adjusts the batter’s thickness; use dairy-free alternatives to keep it suitable for everyone.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavors, giving a delightful aroma to the bread.
For the Topping
• Granulated Sugar – Sprinkled on top for a sweet crunch that pairs wonderfully with the soft bread.
• Ground Cinnamon – Adds extra warmth and spice to the topping, enhancing the flavor experience!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bread
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan using cooking spray or butter, ensuring it’s well-coated to prevent sticking. You’ll want to make the pan ready for the delicious Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bread that’s about to arise!
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and your warm spices—cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. This blend should come together as a fluffy mixture, with the sweet aroma of spices filling the air. Set this bowl aside while you move on to the wet ingredients.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, combine the canned pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, eggs, milk, and vanilla extract. Whisk them together until smooth and creamy, creating a rich, fragrant base for your bread. The mixture should be lustrous and well-blended, showcasing the beautiful pumpkin hue that will make your Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bread delightful and moist.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gently pour the wet pumpkin mixture into the bowl of dry ingredients. Using a spatula, fold the mixtures together carefully until just combined—be cautious not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense loaf. You want a few flour streaks to remain visible for the best texture in your Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bread.
Step 5: Prepare for Baking
Once the batter is ready, scoop it into the greased loaf pan, spreading it evenly with your spatula. This ensures that the bread rises uniformly as it bakes, giving you that perfect, domed top. The vibrant batter will look rich and inviting as it awaits its time in the oven.
Step 6: Add the Topping
In a small bowl, mix together granulated sugar and a sprinkle of ground cinnamon for the topping. Generously sprinkle this mixture over the batter in the loaf pan, creating a sweet, crunchy layer that will complement the soft interior of the Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bread beautifully.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 55-65 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. During baking, the warm aroma of cinnamon and pumpkin will fill your home, inviting everyone to gather around.
Step 8: Cool and Slice
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Carefully transfer the loaf to a wire rack to cool completely. Once it’s cool enough to handle, slice into warm, delightful pieces and savor the cozy essence of your homemade Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bread!
What to Serve with Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bread?
There’s something incredibly comforting about enjoying a slice of sweet pumpkin bread alongside complementary flavors and textures that elevate the experience.
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Creamy Butter: A generous pat of softened butter melts into the warm bread, adding richness and a luxurious touch to its delightful sweetness.
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Hot Coffee: The robust flavor of freshly brewed coffee perfectly balances the warm spices of the pumpkin bread, creating a cozy morning ritual.
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Maple Syrup Drizzle: A light drizzle of maple syrup enhances the sweetness while introducing hints of caramel and complexity that bring out the pumpkin flavor.
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Chai Tea: The aromatic spices in chai tea harmonize beautifully with the flavors of cinnamon and nutmeg in the pumpkin bread, making it a delightful afternoon pick-me-up.
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Sweet Cream Cheese Spread: A dollop of cream cheese spread adds a tangy and creamy element, perfectly contrasting the bread‘s moist sweetness.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Enjoy a slice of warm pumpkin bread with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a comforting dessert that’s both indulgent and delightful.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A light, refreshing fruit salad adds a burst of color and brightness, balancing the richness of the bread with natural sweetness.
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Spiced Warm Milk: Cozy up with a glass of warm spiced milk, enhancing the warm, nostalgic essence of autumn that this pumpkin bread embodies.
Make Ahead Options
These Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bread options are perfect for busy home cooks! You can prepare the dry ingredients (flour, sugars, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and spices) up to 3 days in advance; simply store them in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their quality. Additionally, you can mix the wet ingredients (pumpkin puree, oil, eggs, milk, and vanilla) and keep them refrigerated for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, combine the wet and dry ingredients until just mixed, then pour into the loaf pan, sprinkle with the cinnamon sugar topping, and bake as instructed. This way, you’ll enjoy fresh, homemade Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bread with minimal effort on those busy days!
How to Store and Freeze Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bread
Room Temperature: Store your Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bread at room temperature for up to 3 days in an airtight container to maintain its moist texture and delightful flavors.
Fridge: If you need to keep it longer, you can refrigerate the bread for up to a week, but this may alter the texture slightly. Wrap it tightly to prevent it from drying out.
Freezer: For maximum freshness, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.
Reheating: To warm individual slices, pop them in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or toast them lightly for that fresh-from-the-oven feel!
Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bread Variations
Feel free to explore delightful twists to make this bread uniquely yours and more delicious!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. This way, everyone can indulge without worry.
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Nutty Crunch: Add 1 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for extra texture and rich flavor. The delightful crunch pairs beautifully with the softness of the bread.
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Chocolate Lovers: Mix in 1 cup of semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips. This indulgent addition sparks joy and makes it extra special for dessert.
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Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle heat that enhances the warm spices, creating a unique taste experience for adventurous palates.
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Dairy-Free Delight: Use almond milk or oat milk in place of regular milk. This simple swap keeps the bread moist while accommodating dairy-free diets.
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Fruit Infusion: Toss in 1 cup of dried cranberries or raisins for a chewy, fruity surprise in every bite. Their sweetness complements the spices perfectly.
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Cinnamon Sugar Twist: Double the sugar and cinnamon topping for an extra crunchy crust that contrasts delightfully with the bread’s soft interior. It’s decadence every bite!
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Pumpkin Spice Extract: Replace vanilla extract with pumpkin spice extract for an even more potent autumn aroma. This subtle change elevates the flavor profile beautifully.
Discover more about balancing flavors with my guide on Balancing Cinnamon Sugar, and don’t forget to check out a great side with your bread, like Delicious Garlic Bread Air that pairs wonderfully with the cozy ambiance of your homemade creation!
Expert Tips for Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bread
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Mix Gently: Avoid overmixing when combining wet and dry ingredients. This ensures a tender and fluffy loaf for your cinnamon sugar pumpkin bread.
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Check Freshness: Ensure your baking soda and baking powder are fresh. Old leavening agents can lead to a dense texture that won’t rise properly.
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Doneness Test: Use a toothpick to check for doneness. It should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs; this confirms a perfectly baked bread.
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Adjust Spices: Feel free to customize the spice levels to your taste preference. If you’re a cinnamon lover, add an extra pinch or swap some spices for allspice.
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Cover if Browning: If the top of your bread is browning too quickly during baking, loosely cover it with aluminum foil to prevent burning while it finishes cooking.
Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bread Recipe FAQs
What type of pumpkin should I use for the best flavor?
Absolutely! Canned pumpkin puree is an excellent choice for this recipe as it provides consistency and rich flavor. However, if you prefer fresh pumpkin, select a sugar pumpkin, peel, and cube it, then steam or roast until tender. Finally, blend it into a smooth puree—this can be a delightful homemade touch that enhances your Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bread!
How can I store leftover pumpkin bread?
Very simple! For short-term storage, keep your Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to prolong its deliciousness, refrigerate it for up to a week. Just be sure to wrap it tightly to avoid it drying out!
Can I freeze Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bread?
Absolutely! To freeze your bread, first wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil to seal out air. This way, it will maintain its texture and flavor for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw the bread at room temperature for a few hours, or overnight!
What should I do if my bread is too dense?
No worries at all! Density may result from overmixing the batter or using expired leavening agents. Be sure to mix the wet and dry ingredients just until combined for the best texture, and always check that your baking soda and powder are fresh. If you suspect issues with rise, consider adding an extra teaspoon of baking powder next time!
Can pets eat this bread?
It’s best to avoid sharing your Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bread with pets, particularly dogs, due to the sugar and spices that can upset their stomach. Additionally, ingredients like chocolate or excessive raisins in variations could be harmful. Stick to pet-friendly treats to keep your furry friends wagging their tails!
What if I want to make the bread gluten-free?
The more the merrier when it comes to options! To adapt this recipe for a gluten-free version, simply swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend (ensure it contains a binding agent, like xanthan gum). Follow the other steps as written for deliciously moist results suited for everyone to enjoy!
Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bread: A Cozy Fall Favorite
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and spices.
- In another bowl, mix the pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, eggs, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Gently pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and fold together until just combined.
- Scoop the batter into the greased loaf pan and spread it evenly.
- In a small bowl, mix the sugar and cinnamon for the topping, and sprinkle over the batter.
- Bake for 55-65 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
