If you’re craving a cozy, fall-inspired treat that wraps your kitchen in the warmest spices, this Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bread Recipe is your new best friend. It’s the perfect harmony of moist pumpkin puree and a delightful blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, topped with a crunchy cinnamon sugar crust that adds the most irresistible texture. Whether you’re baking for breakfast, a snack, or sharing with loved ones over coffee, this recipe promises a slice of pure autumn bliss every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting ready to make this Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bread Recipe is easier than you think! The ingredients are straightforward but thoughtfully chosen to create that perfect balance of flavor, moisture, and spice that makes this bread so special.
- All-purpose flour: The foundation for our bread, providing structure and softness in every bite.
- Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a fine crumb texture, used both in the batter and topping.
- Brown sugar, packed: Brings a hint of molasses richness that deepens the flavor and keeps the bread moist.
- Baking soda: Works as a vital leavening agent to help the bread rise beautifully.
- Baking powder: Supports the rise for an airy, light texture.
- Salt: Balances sweetness and intensifies the spices for a well-rounded taste.
- Ground cinnamon: The star spice that imparts warmth and a comforting aroma.
- Ground nutmeg: Adds a subtle nutty complexity that pairs perfectly with pumpkin.
- Ground ginger: Gives a gentle zing that brightens the overall spice profile.
- Ground cloves: Offers a spicy-sweet punch essential for that classic fall flavor.
- Canned pumpkin puree: The heart of the bread; it keeps the bread moist and packed with that unmistakable pumpkin goodness.
- Vegetable oil: Ensures tenderness and keeps the bread soft even days after baking.
- Large eggs: Binding agents that provide structure and richness.
- Milk: Adds moisture to the batter and helps dissolve the dry ingredients for an even mix.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the natural sweetness and spices with a fragrant undertone.
- Granulated sugar (for topping): Creates that signature crunch on top when mixed with cinnamon.
How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bread Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is just right to let the pumpkin bread bake through without drying out. Lightly grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan to prevent sticking and ensure easy release once your bread is baked to golden perfection.
Step 2: Combine Your Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, the main granulated sugar, packed brown sugar, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and the warming spices — cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. This dry mixture forms the spicy, fragrant base of your bread and will distribute the flavors evenly throughout.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients Separately
In another bowl, beat together the pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, eggs, milk, and vanilla extract until everything is well blended. This wet mix adds moisture, richness, and that unmistakable pumpkin flavor that makes this bread truly special.
Step 4: Blend Wet and Dry Mixtures
Slowly add the wet ingredients into the dry mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be mindful not to overmix, as you want your bread to stay tender and fluffy rather than dense. The batter should be thick and smooth at this stage.
Step 5: Prepare for Baking
Pour your batter into the greased loaf pan, spreading it out evenly. This ensures each slice will be consistent in texture and taste — every bite just as lovely as the last.
Step 6: Make the Cinnamon Sugar Topping
Mix together the remaining granulated sugar and ground cinnamon in a small bowl. This simple but magical combination will create the sweet, crunchy topping that gives this Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bread Recipe its unforgettable final touch.
Step 7: Sprinkle Topping and Bake
Generously sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over the top of the batter in the loaf pan. Then pop it into the oven and bake for 55 to 65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The aroma filling your kitchen at this point will be pure pumpkin spice heaven.
Step 8: Cool Before Slicing
Once baked, let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This step helps the bread finish setting, making slicing easier and neater, while preserving all that delicious moisture inside.
How to Serve Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bread Recipe
Garnishes
To take your Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bread Recipe to the next level, try topping slices with a pat of softened butter or a smear of cream cheese frosting. A dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey can also enhance the bread’s sweetness and make for a pretty presentation.
Side Dishes
This pumpkin bread pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or chai tea latte for a cozy morning or afternoon treat. You can also serve it alongside a bowl of warm apple cider or a scoop of vanilla ice cream if you’re feeling indulgent.
Creative Ways to Present
For gatherings, cut the bread into smaller cubes and serve with a cinnamon-spiced dipping sauce or whipped cinnamon cream. Wrapping individual slices in parchment paper tied with twine makes for a charming gift or party favor, spreading the joy of this recipe far and wide.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bread Recipe stays moist and delicious stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. To keep it fresh longer, store it in the refrigerator for up to a week, but bring it to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy your pumpkin bread later, it freezes beautifully. Wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. It can be frozen for up to three months and still taste just as fresh when thawed.
Reheating
To warm up slices, microwave them for about 15 to 20 seconds or toast them lightly to revive that crispy edge and soft, warm center. Reheating really heightens the aromas and spices, making each bite feel freshly baked all over again.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned puree?
Yes, you can! Just roast and puree fresh pumpkin before measuring the same amount as canned. Make sure the puree is smooth and not too watery to maintain the right bread texture.
Can I substitute the vegetable oil with butter?
Absolutely. Using melted butter instead of vegetable oil will add a richer flavor to your bread, though it might make it slightly denser. Either option works wonderfully for this recipe.
Is this bread gluten-free?
This particular Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bread Recipe uses all-purpose flour and is not gluten-free. However, you could experiment with a gluten-free all-purpose blend, keeping in mind the texture might vary slightly.
How long does the bread stay fresh?
At room temperature, this pumpkin bread stays fresh for about three days. Refrigerated, it can last up to one week, though it’s best enjoyed within the first few days for ultimate moistness.
Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?
Definitely! Adding chopped walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips can add wonderful texture and flavor pops. Fold in about a half cup of your favorite mix-ins with the wet ingredients for best distribution.
Final Thoughts
This Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bread Recipe is truly one of those special treats that feels like a warm hug in every slice. It’s easy to make, bursting with autumn spices, and topped off with that addictive cinnamon sugar crunch that’s hard to resist. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own cozy tradition soon!
