Pumpkin Spice Bread
This is an absolutely delicious, moist, perfect pumpkin bread for a holiday brunch, an afternoon “get-together”, or even a weekday morning. The pumpkin flavor is not too overwhelming, and combined with the spices, it simply wonderful!! If you really want to make a good impression on someone (or just want an extra special treat) spread this perfect bread warm with a little spiced cream cheese frosting (recipe follows). I promise, Pumpkin Spice Bread will not disappoint! It is easy to make, very moist and flavorful, has a fantastic flavor, and keeps for a week wrapped on the counter – even the most skeptical “pumpkin-flavored” critics will be asking for a second slice!
Equipment
- 1 9×5 inch (standard) loaf pan
- 1 medium mixing bowl
- 1 large bowl
Ingredients
- ⅓ cup sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- ½ cup unsweetened, all natural apple sauce
- ½ cup water
- 1 cup canned pumpkin
- 1 cup whole wheat pastry flour
- ⅔ cup all purpose flour
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ¾ teaspoon powdered ginger
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg
- ⅛ teaspoon cloves
- ¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
- ¼ cup raisins or dried cranberries (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees and spray a 9×5 inch (standard) loaf pan with non-stick cooking spray.
- Combine the sugar, brown sugar, pumpkin, apple sauce, water and eggs in a medium mixing bowl and stir to blend well. In a larger bowl, combine the whole wheat pastry flour, all purpose flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, salt, baking powder, nutmeg, and cloves; stir to sift all of the dry ingredients together.
- Add the wet mixture to the dry, and stir well. If using nuts and/or raisins, fold them in to the batter at this point.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, and place it on the center rack of the oven. Bake for about 60 – 65 minutes (or until a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean). Allow the bread to cool for at least 30 minutes before removing it from the pan.
Video
Notes
For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a handful of chopped toasted pecans or walnuts to the batter. The nutty crunch will beautifully complement the warm spices. Don't forget to share your delicious creations and subscribe to my blog for more irresistible recipes!