Pumpkin Nut Bread Recipe

Cozy Autumn Pumpkin Nut Bread Recipe: Warm & Wholesome Joy

Crisp autumn winds whisper stories of warm, comforting pumpkin nut bread that fills kitchens with irresistible aromas.

Baking becomes a sensory journey through memories of cozy afternoons.

Nutty fragments dance alongside rich pumpkin notes, creating a symphony of seasonal flavors.

Sweet spices mingle with earthy undertones, promising delectable comfort in every slice.

Crumbly textures and deep amber colors hint at the magic waiting to unfold.

Home cooks can easily craft this nostalgic treat that connects generations through shared culinary experiences.

Prepare to savor a slice of pure, homemade happiness.

Pumpkin Nut Bread Ingredient List

Dry Ingredients:
  • Flour: A fundamental base that provides structure and texture to the pumpkin bread.
  • Baking Soda, Baking Powder: Leavening agents that help the bread rise and create a light, fluffy texture.
  • Salt: Enhances the overall flavor profile of the bread.
  • Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Cloves: Warm spices that add depth and traditional autumn flavor to the pumpkin bread.
Wet Ingredients:
  • Pumpkin Puree: The star ingredient that provides moisture, rich color, and classic pumpkin flavor.
  • Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with the bread's caramelization.
  • Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and contribute to the bread's structure.
  • Oil: Ensures the bread remains moist and tender.
  • Milk: Adds additional moisture and helps create a smooth batter.
  • Vanilla Extract: Provides a subtle, complementary flavor to the spices.
Nuts:
  • Chopped Nuts: Add crunch, texture, and a nutty flavor that complements the pumpkin and spices.

Pumpkin Nut Bread Steps

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Get your oven ready by heating it to 350F and generously coating a 9×5-inch loaf pan with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Create Dry Mixture

Grab a spacious mixing bowl and whisk together all your dry ingredients:
  • All-purpose flour
  • Baking soda
  • Baking powder
  • Salt
  • Ground cinnamon
  • Ground nutmeg
  • Ground cloves

Ensure everything is evenly blended with no lumpy spots.

Step 3: Blend Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, combine and thoroughly mix:
  • Granulated sugar
  • Pumpkin puree
  • Eggs
  • Vegetable oil
  • Whole milk
  • Vanilla extract

Whisk until the mixture looks smooth and consistent.

Step 4: Marry the Mixtures

Slowly pour the dry ingredients into the wet mixture.

Stir gently until everything just comes together.

Avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender.

Step 5: Welcome the Nuts

Carefully fold in your favorite chopped nuts, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.

Step 6: Fill the Pan

Transfer the batter into your prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Slide the pan into the preheated oven and bake for 55-65 minutes.

Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center – it should come out clean.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Allow the bread to rest in the pan for 10 minutes.

Then, transfer to a wire rack and let it cool completely before slicing and enjoying.

Pumpkin Nut Bread Handy Tips

  • Select fresh, high-quality nuts like walnuts or pecans for maximum flavor and crunch in your pumpkin bread.
  • Don't overmix the batter to keep the bread tender and prevent a tough, dense texture.
  • Wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to maintain moisture and freshness for up to 4 days at room temperature.
  • Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for those with wheat sensitivities, ensuring the same delicious taste and texture.
  • Enhance the warm flavor by toasting nuts briefly before adding them to the batter, intensifying their nutty aroma and taste.

Pumpkin Nut Bread Variations

  • Gluten-Free Pumpkin Bread: Replace wheat flour with almond or gluten-free flour blend, ensuring the same texture and flavor profile.
  • Vegan Pumpkin Loaf: Substitute eggs with flax eggs, use coconut oil instead of regular oil, and swap milk with almond or oat milk for a plant-based version.
  • Low-Sugar Pumpkin Bread: Use monk fruit sweetener or stevia instead of sugar, reducing overall calorie content while maintaining sweetness.
  • Seed-Packed Pumpkin Bread: Replace nuts with pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, or a mixed seed blend for a different crunch and nutritional boost.

Serving Pumpkin Nut Bread

  • Cozy Morning Companion: Serve warm slices with a steaming cup of coffee or chai tea for a delightful breakfast treat.
  • Dessert Upgrade: Top each slice with a dollop of whipped cream or cream cheese frosting for an indulgent after-dinner sweet.
  • Gifting Delight: Wrap individual slices in parchment paper and tie with a rustic twine for a homemade edible gift perfect for autumn gatherings.
  • Breakfast Boost: Pair with a spread of softened butter or maple cream cheese to enhance the bread's rich pumpkin and nut flavors.

Storing Pumpkin Nut Bread

  • Store wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil for up to 5 days in the refrigerator. Keep bread in an airtight container to maintain moisture and prevent drying out.
  • Wrap completely cooled bread in plastic wrap, then cover with aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
  • Cut bread into individual slices, wrap each slice separately in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. Thaw individual slices at room temperature or toast directly from frozen.
  • Warm slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or toast in a toaster oven at 350F for 3-5 minutes until heated through. Add a pat of butter for extra richness when serving.

FAQs

  • What type of nuts work best in this pumpkin bread?

Walnuts and pecans are the most popular choices, providing a rich, buttery crunch that complements the soft, spiced bread texture.

  • Can I make this bread gluten-free?

Yes, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that has a 1:1 ratio replacement to maintain the bread’s structure and consistency.

  • How do I know if my pumpkin bread is fully baked?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the bread – if it comes out clean with no wet batter, the bread is done. The top should also be golden brown and slightly springy to the touch.

Pumpkin Nut Bread Highlights

  • Boost Comfort: Warm, spiced pumpkin bread delivers instant coziness with its rich aroma and soft texture, perfect for cuddling up with a slice.
  • Quick Family Win: Simple ingredients and straightforward mixing make this recipe super accessible for home bakers of all skill levels, ensuring everyone can enjoy a delicious homemade treat.
  • Versatile Delight: Adaptable for breakfast, snack, or dessert, this bread works wonderfully for casual gatherings, potlucks, or afternoon tea with friends and family.
  • Nutritious Indulgence: Packed with pumpkin's natural goodness and added nuts, this bread offers a healthier alternative to traditional sweet treats while still satisfying dessert cravings.
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Pumpkin Nut Bread Recipe

Pumpkin Nut Bread Recipe


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4.8 from 12 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Harvest warmth fills kitchens with delightful pumpkin nut bread, a seasonal comfort blending autumnal spices and rich nutty textures. Comforting slices promise delectable moments of pure seasonal bliss for you.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup pumpkin puree
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 3/4 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)

Wet Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Spices and Leavening Agents:

  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves

Instructions

  1. Prepare the oven at 350°F and coat a 9×5-inch loaf pan with non-stick spray or butter.
  2. Sift together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves in a large mixing bowl, ensuring even distribution of spices.
  3. Whisk sugar, pumpkin puree, eggs, vegetable oil, milk, and vanilla extract in a separate bowl until the mixture becomes uniform and glossy.
  4. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just blended to prevent overmixing.
  5. Gently fold chopped nuts into the batter, distributing them evenly throughout the mixture.
  6. Transfer the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula for an even surface.
  7. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 55-65 minutes, checking doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center – it should emerge clean and dry.
  8. Remove from oven and allow the bread to rest in the pan for 10 minutes to stabilize its structure.
  9. Carefully transfer the loaf to a wire cooling rack, letting it cool completely before slicing to maintain its delicate texture.

Notes

  • Swap nuts with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin for a nut-free version that’s perfect for school lunches or allergy-friendly gatherings.
  • Replace regular flour with gluten-free flour blend to make this bread celiac-friendly without compromising the rich, moist texture.
  • Use coconut oil or applesauce instead of vegetable oil to reduce calories and add subtle complementary flavors that enhance the pumpkin’s natural sweetness.
  • Adjust spice levels by increasing or decreasing cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves to personalize the bread’s warmth and depth according to your taste preferences.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 65 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast, Snacks, Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 183 kcal
  • Sugar: 9 g
  • Sodium: 140 mg
  • Fat: 10 g
  • Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 22 g
  • Fiber: 1.5 g
  • Protein: 3.5 g
  • Cholesterol: 28 mg
Michael Reyes

Michael Reyes

Founder & Lead Recipe Developer

Expertise

  • Southwestern and Latin American cuisine
  • Developing easy single-serving recipes
  • Food styling and food photography

Education

Santa Fe Community College

  • Program: Culinary Arts Certificate
  • Focus: Practical, hands-on learning in essential kitchen skills, including food safety, hygiene, knife techniques, and kitchen organization.

Michael’s love for cooking runs deep, rooted in the bold, colorful flavors of his New Mexico upbringing.
After earning his Culinary Arts Certificate from Santa Fe Community College, he spent years sharpening his skills in kitchens that celebrated traditional Southwestern and Latin American dishes.
He believes cooking should feel approachable and fun, never complicated. When he’s not stirring up new recipe ideas, Michael’s out hiking scenic trails, chatting with farmers at local markets, or chasing the perfect sunset shot for inspiration.

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