Pumpkin Bread With Cream Cheese Frosting

Pumpkin Bread With Cream Cheese Frosting is an ultimate fall favorite, featuring warm spices, moist pumpkin loaf, and a rich cream cheese topping. This classic recipe is simple to make yet full of aromatic flavors that embody the spirit of autumn. The combination of spices like cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg with creamy pumpkin puree creates a comforting bread that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.

INGREDIENTS

• All-purpose flour: 2 cups, provides structure to the bread.
• Baking soda: 1 tsp, for leavening.
• Ground cinnamon: 2 tsp, adds warmth.
• Ground ginger: 1 tsp, adds a subtle spice.
• Ground nutmeg: ½ tsp, adds aroma.
• Salt: ½ tsp, balances sweetness.
• Canola oil: ½ cup, for moisture.
• Granulated sugar: ¾ cup, adds sweetness.
• Light brown sugar: ½ cup, adds moisture and flavor.
• Eggs: 2 large, for binding and texture.
• Pumpkin puree: 1 ¼ cup, adds moisture and pumpkin flavor.
• Vanilla extract: 2 tsp, for flavor.
• Cream cheese: 4 oz, softened, for the frosting.
• Unsalted butter: 4 tbsp, softened, adds richness to the frosting.
• Vanilla extract: 1 tsp, adds flavor to the frosting.
• Powdered sugar: 1 cup, sweetens and thickens the frosting.
• Milk: 1-3 tsp, adjusts the frosting's consistency.

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1:

Preheat oven to 350°F and line a 9x5 loaf pan with parchment paper.

Step 2:

In a mixing bowl, combine flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and salt.

Step 3:

In another bowl, whisk together oil, granulated sugar, brown sugar, pumpkin puree, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Step 4:

Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined, then pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.

Step 5:

Bake for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the loaf cool completely before frosting.

Step 6:

For the frosting, beat together cream cheese, butter, vanilla extract, powdered sugar, and a small amount of milk until creamy and smooth.

Step 7:

Spread the cream cheese frosting over the cooled pumpkin loaf, slice, and serve.

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serve chilled or at room temperature.
• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• For longer storage, freeze the unfrosted loaf for up to 2 months and add frosting after thawing.

Helpful Notes

• Use freshly grated nutmeg for a stronger aroma.
• Adjust the frosting consistency with more or less milk, depending on preference.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs

• Chef Laura suggests toasting the spices for a richer flavor in the pumpkin bread.

What Makes This Pumpkin Bread Special

The moist texture and flavorful spices make this pumpkin bread irresistible. Topped with tangy cream cheese frosting, it’s a delightful addition to any fall menu.

The Benefits of Pumpkin in Baking

Pumpkin puree adds moisture and natural sweetness, making baked goods soft and tender. It’s also rich in vitamins and fiber, making this bread a healthier treat.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes, you can use cooked and pureed fresh pumpkin, but ensure it has the same consistency as canned.

Can I add nuts to the batter?

Yes, chopped walnuts or pecans can be added for extra texture.

Can this recipe be made gluten-free?

Yes, by using a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, use a flax egg substitute and vegan cream cheese and butter for the frosting.

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Conclusion

Pumpkin Bread With Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful fall-inspired recipe that brings together the flavors of pumpkin, warm spices, and a tangy-sweet frosting. This moist and flavorful bread is made with simple pantry ingredients like flour, oil, sugar, and spices, combined with canned pumpkin puree for a rich, aromatic flavor. The bread is topped with a smooth, creamy frosting made from cream cheese, butter, vanilla, and powdered sugar, which adds a delicious contrast to the spiced loaf. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet afternoon snack, this pumpkin bread is a must-try for pumpkin lovers. Whether you’re serving it during the fall holidays or as a comforting treat, its moist texture and creamy topping make it a crowd-pleaser.