Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy treat that fills your home with the warm scents of fall, then this Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is just what you need! Every bite of this moist, spiced loaf brings a touch of comfort and nostalgia. Whether it’s for a busy weeknight dessert, a family gathering, or simply to enjoy with your morning coffee, this pumpkin bread is sure to become a cherished favorite.

What makes this recipe special is not just the delightful flavor but also the sweet, creamy cream cheese frosting that takes it to another level. It’s perfect for those who love a sweet topping on their baked goods. So grab your mixing bowl and let’s dive into making this seasonal delight!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: This recipe comes together quickly in just about 15 minutes of prep time!
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the sweet pumpkin flavor and creamy frosting.
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s breakfast, dessert, or a snack, this bread fits right in.
• Make ahead convenience: Bake it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week; it stays fresh and delicious!
• Deliciously spiced: The blend of spices adds warmth and depth to every slice.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be pleased to find that these ingredients are simple and wholesome. Most likely, you already have many of them in your pantry! Here’s what you’ll need for this delightful Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe:

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 pumpkin bread recipe is wonderfully flexible! You can easily adapt it to suit your taste or dietary needs. Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add nuts or chocolate chips: Stir in some chopped walnuts or chocolate chips for added texture and sweetness.
• Use different spices: Experiment with spices like allspice or cardamom for a unique twist on flavor!
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to cater to dietary preferences.
• Add dried fruits: Throw in some raisins or cranberries for an extra fruity burst!

How to Make Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Loaf Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Greasing your 9×5 loaf pan will ensure your bread comes out effortlessly after baking. A well-greased pan means less mess and perfectly shaped slices!

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, cardamom, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients first helps evenly distribute the spices throughout the batter.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together the canola oil, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, eggs, pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract until smooth. This step is essential because it gives your bread its rich moisture and flavor!

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want your bread to be tender and fluffy.

Step 5: Pour Into Pan and Bake

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Smooth out the top if necessary. Bake in the preheated oven for about 55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The delightful aroma filling your kitchen will be hard to resist!

Step 6: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting

While your bread cools down slightly on a wire rack, beat together softened cream cheese and butter until creamy. Add vanilla extract followed by powdered sugar; mix until smooth. If needed, add milk little by little until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 7: Frost Your Bread

Once your pumpkin bread has cooled completely—this prevents melting—spread that luscious cream cheese frosting generously on top!

Now you have a beautiful Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting ready to share with friends or savor all by yourself! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Baking can be a delightful experience, and these tips will help you make the best pumpkin bread yet!

• Use fresh spices – Freshly ground spices have a more potent flavor and aroma than pre-ground ones, enhancing the overall taste of your pumpkin bread.

• Room temperature ingredients – Ensure your eggs and cream cheese are at room temperature; this helps them blend more easily into the batter, resulting in a smoother texture.

• Don’t overmix the batter – Mixing just until combined prevents the bread from becoming tough. Overmixing can lead to dense bread, so a gentle hand is key.

• Check for doneness with a toothpick – Insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s ready! This ensures that your bread is perfectly baked without being dry.

• Let it cool completely before frosting – Allowing the pumpkin bread to cool fully prevents the cream cheese frosting from melting off. A cooled loaf also allows flavors to deepen.

How to Serve Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Serving your pumpkin bread beautifully can make all the difference! Here are some ideas to enhance your presentation.

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts – Sprinkle some toasted walnuts or pecans on top of the frosting for an added crunch and earthy flavor.

• Cinnamon sprinkle – A light dusting of ground cinnamon can add a warm touch and visually enhance your dish.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad – A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits like apples, pears, and berries adds brightness and freshness to balance the sweetness of the pumpkin bread.

• Yogurt parfaits – Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a creamy side that contrasts nicely with the spiced loaf while providing a satisfying crunch.

• Herbal tea or spiced chai – Pairing your pumpkin bread with a warm cup of herbal tea or spiced chai will complement its flavors perfectly, creating a cozy fall experience.

• Coffee or latte art – Enjoying your slice alongside a rich coffee or latte elevates breakfast or dessert, adding warmth and comfort to your meal.

Now that you have all this information at your fingertips, it’s time to get baking! Enjoy every bite of this delicious pumpkin bread topped with cream cheese frosting. Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy throughout the week or share with friends. Here’s how to store it properly:

Storing Leftovers

• Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to a week.

Freezing

• Wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.
• To freeze individual slices, wrap each slice separately.

Reheating

• Allow frozen bread to thaw at room temperature for several hours or overnight in the fridge.
• For warm bread, reheat slices in a toaster oven or microwave for about 10-15 seconds.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe:

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree for the Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe?

Absolutely! If you’re using fresh pumpkin, be sure to cook and puree it until smooth before measuring out 1¼ cups.

How do I make the cream cheese frosting less sweet in the Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe?

You can reduce the amount of powdered sugar by half and add a bit more cream cheese or butter for a thicker consistency. Adjust to your taste!

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to my Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe?

Yes! Feel free to fold in about ½ to 1 cup of walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips into the batter before baking for added texture and flavor.

How do I know when my pumpkin bread is done baking?

Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the loaf. It should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached.

Final Thoughts

This Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting is not only a treat for your taste buds but also a wonderful way to embrace the cozy vibes of fall. I hope you enjoy making this recipe as much as I do! Whether it’s served at brunch or as an afternoon snack, it’s sure to bring smiles all around. Happy baking!