Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy, heartwarming treat to enjoy during the fall season, this Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is just what you need. The aroma of warm spices wafting through your kitchen will transport you to crisp autumn days, where every bite feels like a hug. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings and is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.

What makes this recipe special is its moist texture and the delightful cream cheese frosting that adds a sweet and tangy touch. You can easily whip it up on a Sunday afternoon and savor it throughout the week or share it with friends—either way, it’s bound to bring smiles all around!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With simple steps and common ingredients, you’ll have this delicious bread in no time.
• Family favorite: The combination of pumpkin and spices appeals to all ages, making it perfect for everyone.
• Make-ahead option: Bake now and enjoy later! It stores well and tastes even better the next day.
• Versatile treat: Enjoy it as breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack—it’s great any time of day!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these ingredients feels like collecting little treasures from your pantry! They are simple, wholesome components that come together beautifully in this Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe. Here’s 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 taste or what you have on hand. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add nuts: Chop up some walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and flavor.
• Mix in chocolate chips: If you love chocolate, toss in some dairy-free chocolate chips for a sweet surprise.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a suitable version.
• Spice it up: Add some cayenne pepper or extra ginger if you prefer a bit more heat in your pumpkin bread.

How to Make Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial because it ensures that your bread bakes evenly and rises beautifully.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, spices, and salt. This step allows the flavors to blend well together before adding them to your wet ingredients.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix the canola oil, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract until smooth. This mixture adds moisture and flavor to your bread.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine! Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf.

Step 5: Bake Your Bread

Pour the batter into a greased 9×5 loaf pan. Bake for about 55 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean when inserted in the center. Patience is key here; let that delicious aroma fill your home!

Step 6: Prepare Your Frosting

While your bread cools, beat together cream cheese and butter until creamy. Add vanilla extract and powdered sugar gradually while mixing. Adjust with milk until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 7: Frost Your Bread

Once cooled completely, spread the cream cheese frosting generously over your pumpkin bread. Trust me; this finishing touch takes it from good to absolutely delightful!

Enjoy every slice of this lovingly baked Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe! It’s sure to become one of your go-to recipes for fall gatherings and cozy evenings at home.

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Baking can be a wonderful adventure, and these tips will help you create an amazing pumpkin bread that your friends and family will love.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing eggs, butter, and cream cheese to room temperature helps them blend more easily, resulting in a smoother batter and cream cheese frosting. This ensures a light and fluffy texture in both the bread and the frosting.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Mixing just until combined prevents the development of gluten, which can lead to a dense loaf. Aim for a few lumps remaining in your batter—this will keep your pumpkin bread tender and moist.

• Check for doneness: Ovens can vary, so start checking your bread a few minutes before the suggested baking time. Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached. This way, you’ll avoid overbaking and keep your bread wonderfully moist.

• Cool completely before frosting: Allowing the pumpkin bread to cool fully ensures that the cream cheese frosting doesn’t melt off. A cool surface allows for better adherence and helps maintain that delightful creamy layer on top.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the spice levels based on your preferences! Adding a pinch of allspice or cardamom can enhance the flavor profile of your pumpkin bread, making it uniquely yours.

How to Serve Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Presentation matters, especially when you’re serving this delightful pumpkin bread topped with luscious cream cheese frosting. Here are some ideas to make your dish shine!

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some toasted walnuts or pecans on top for added crunch and a nutty flavor that complements the sweetness of the frosting.
• Cinnamon sugar: A light dusting of cinnamon sugar adds an extra touch of sweetness and gives your pumpkin bread an inviting appearance.
• Fresh herbs: A small sprig of mint or rosemary on the side not only looks pretty but provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the bread.

Side Dishes

• Hot Apple Cider: This warm drink is perfect for fall! Its sweet and spicy notes pair harmoniously with the flavors of pumpkin.
• Coffee or Tea: A cup of freshly brewed coffee or herbal tea enhances your dessert experience while balancing out sweetness with its warmth.
• Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal fruits like apples, pears, or oranges adds brightness and freshness to your meal.
• Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and seasonal fruits for a light side dish that complements the richness of the pumpkin bread beautifully.

Enjoy your delicious Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting, and happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting is not only delicious but also a fantastic option for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time, which makes it perfect for busy mornings or special occasions. Let’s dive into how to store and enjoy your leftovers!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the pumpkin bread to cool completely.
• Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap or foil for easy access.
• Place wrapped slices in an airtight container or a resealable bag.
• Store at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

• Cool the pumpkin bread completely before freezing.
• Wrap the entire loaf tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Alternatively, freeze slices separately by wrapping each slice individually.
• Store in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For individual slices, unwrap and microwave on a plate for about 15-20 seconds or until warmed through.
• To reheat the entire loaf, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Unwrap and place it on a baking sheet; warm for about 10-15 minutes.
• Enjoy with an extra dollop of cream cheese frosting if desired!

FAQs

Here are some common questions you may have about this delightful recipe.

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

Absolutely! If you prefer using fresh pumpkin, just make sure to cook and puree it until smooth. You’ll want about the same amount as canned—approximately 1¼ cups.

How can I make my Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting more spiced?

If you’re looking for extra spice in your Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe, consider adding more ground cinnamon or even incorporating some allspice. This will enhance that cozy fall flavor!

What can I substitute for cream cheese in the frosting?

If you’re looking for a non-dairy alternative, you can use plant-based cream cheese or cashew cream blended until smooth. This will give you a similar creamy texture without using dairy.

How long does this pumpkin bread stay fresh?

When stored properly at room temperature, your pumpkin bread can last up to three days. If refrigerated, it may last up to a week, while freezing extends its life up to three months!

Final Thoughts

I hope this Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting becomes a cherished recipe in your home! Its moist texture and wonderful spices make it perfect for sharing with loved ones during cozy gatherings. Enjoy creating this delightful treat, and don’t hesitate to add your personal touch! Happy baking!