Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy treat that perfectly embodies the warmth of fall, then this Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is calling your name! There’s something so comforting about the smell of spices and pumpkin wafting through your kitchen. This recipe has been a cherished favorite in my home, bringing smiles to family gatherings as well as busy weeknights. The combination of moist pumpkin bread topped with a sweet and tangy cream cheese frosting makes it a delightful addition to any occasion.

Whether you’re enjoying a slice with your morning coffee or serving it as dessert after dinner, this pumpkin bread is sure to please everyone at the table. Trust me, once you taste it, you’ll want to make it again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious loaf ready to bake!
• Moist and flavorful: The blend of spices and pumpkin creates a rich flavor that’s perfect for fall.
• Family favorite: Everyone loves a slice of this pumpkin bread, making it great for sharing at family gatherings.
• Make-ahead convenience: Bake ahead of time and enjoy it fresh throughout the week or share it as a thoughtful gift.
• Irresistible frosting: The cream cheese frosting adds a creamy touch that perfectly complements the spiced bread.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering ingredients for this Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is a breeze! You’ll find that these are simple, wholesome ingredients you likely have on hand or can easily grab from the store. Let’s dive into what you’ll need:

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 recipe is wonderfully flexible! You can easily customize it to suit your tastes or use what you have on hand. Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Add nuts: Throw in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
• Spice it up: Feel free to add extra spices like allspice or cardamom for an even more aromatic experience.
• Chocolate chips: For a sweet twist, mix in some chocolate chips—because who doesn’t love chocolate?
• Gluten-free option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make this recipe friendly for those with dietary restrictions.

How to Make Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Greasing your 9×5 loaf pan is crucial; it prevents the bread from sticking. A little bit of oil or cooking spray will do the trick!

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, cardamom, and salt until well combined. This step is important because mixing these dry ingredients ensures that the spices are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, combine canola oil, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, eggs, pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth. Mixing wet ingredients separately helps create an even texture in your final loaf.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry mixture just until combined. Be careful not to overmix! Overmixing can lead to dense bread instead of that lovely moist loaf we’re aiming for.

Step 5: Bake

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. The aroma will fill your kitchen—trust me; it’s heavenly!

Step 6: Cool Before Frosting

Once baked, allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Letting it cool completely before frosting ensures that your cream cheese frosting doesn’t melt away!

Step 7: Make Cream Cheese Frosting

While your pumpkin bread cools down, prepare the frosting by beating together cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add vanilla extract and powdered sugar gradually while mixing until creamy. If it’s too thick, add milk one teaspoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 8: Frost Your Bread

Once cooled completely, spread that delicious cream cheese frosting generously over your pumpkin bread. Slice yourself a piece and enjoy every bite!

This Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe will become one of those go-to recipes you’ll cherish forever! Enjoy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Baking pumpkin bread can be a delightful experience, and with these tips, you’ll master it in no time!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing your eggs and cream cheese to room temperature helps ensure a smooth batter and frosting, creating a consistent texture throughout.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Mixing just until combined prevents the bread from becoming tough. Overmixing develops gluten, which can make your loaf dense instead of tender.

• Check for doneness with a toothpick: Insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf; if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, your bread is perfectly baked.

• Let it cool completely before frosting: Allowing your pumpkin bread to cool not only enhances the flavors but also ensures the cream cheese frosting doesn’t melt off.

• Store properly for freshness: Keep your pumpkin bread tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Refrigeration can extend freshness but may alter the texture slightly.

How to Serve Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Once your pumpkin bread is ready, it’s time to present it in a way that celebrates its deliciousness! Here are some creative serving suggestions:

Garnishes

• Chopped pecans or walnuts: Sprinkle some toasted nuts on top of the frosting for added crunch and flavor.
• Cinnamon sprinkle: A light dusting of cinnamon adds an aromatic touch that complements the spices in the bread beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits like apples, pears, and berries provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pumpkin bread.
• Yogurt parfait: Layer creamy yogurt with granola and honey for a wholesome side that balances sweetness with tanginess.
• Hot spiced cider: Warm drinks like spiced apple cider enhance the cozy vibes of fall and pair wonderfully with pumpkin flavors.
• Herbal tea: A warm cup of herbal tea, such as chai or peppermint, can be soothing alongside your sweet treat.

With these serving ideas, your Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting will surely impress friends and family alike! Enjoy sharing this delicious creation!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep. You can easily make it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week or share it with family and friends.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Slice the pumpkin bread before freezing for convenient portions.
• Wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator when ready to enjoy.

Reheating

• For individual slices, microwave on medium power for about 15-20 seconds until warmed through.
• Alternatively, reheat the entire loaf in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warm.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this scrumptious Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?

Absolutely! If you have fresh pumpkin, you can roast and puree it. Just ensure it’s well-drained and smooth for the best texture.

How do I make cream cheese frosting for Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe?

To make the frosting, beat room temperature cream cheese and unsalted butter together, then add vanilla extract and powdered sugar until smooth. Adjust with milk if needed!

Can I add nuts to my pumpkin bread?

Yes! Chopped walnuts or pecans make a fantastic addition. Just fold them into the batter before baking for added crunch and flavor.

How long does this Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting stay fresh?

When stored properly, it can last up to a week in the refrigerator or three months in the freezer without losing its delightful taste.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in baking this Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting! Its moist texture and warm spices truly capture the essence of fall. Whether you’re enjoying a slice with your morning coffee or sharing it with loved ones at gatherings, it’s sure to bring smiles all around. Happy baking, and I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out!