This Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping recipe is a delightful treat for any occasion. With its rich pumpkin flavor and warm spices, this bread is perfect for fall gatherings, cozy breakfasts, or sweet snacks. The addition of a crumb topping adds a crispy texture that complements the moist interior, making it an irresistible choice for pumpkin lovers.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple to Make: This recipe features straightforward steps and common ingredients, ensuring that anyone can whip up a delicious loaf in no time.
- Bursting with Flavor: The blend of spices and pumpkin puree creates a rich taste that embodies the essence of fall.
- Perfect for Sharing: With two loaves produced from this recipe, it’s ideal for sharing at gatherings or enjoying over several days.
- Versatile Enjoyment: Whether served warm with butter or as a dessert, this pumpkin bread adapts to any meal or occasion.
- Freezable: You can easily freeze leftovers to enjoy later, keeping your pumpkin bread fresh for future cravings.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes baking easier and ensures great results. Here’s what you’ll need:
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
- Rubber spatula
- Bread pans
- Pastry cutter (optional)
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing Bowls: Essential for combining ingredients smoothly without spillage.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving the perfect texture and flavor in your pumpkin bread.
- Whisk: Helps incorporate air into the mixture, creating a lighter texture in the bread.
- Rubber Spatula: Ideal for scraping down the sides of bowls to ensure all ingredients are mixed well.
Ingredients
This easy Pumpkin Bread recipe is topped with a brown sugar crumb topping (aka, a streusel topping). Full of pumpkin flavor and rich pumpkin spice, this moist pumpkin bread is a fall staple!
For the Pumpkin Bread
- 3 1/3 cups all purpose flour
- 1 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 tsp baking soda
- 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- 1/4 tsp ground allspice
- 1/4 tsp ground ginger
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup canola oil (or vegetable oil)
- 4 large eggs
- 1 15oz can pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 2/3 cup water
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Crumb Topping
- 1/2 cup butter, cold and cubed
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 3/4 cup all purpose flour
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
How to Make Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease two 8×4 bread pans or line them with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine:
1. Flour
2. Salt
3. Baking soda
4. Cinnamon
5. Nutmeg
6. Cloves
7. Allspice
8. Ginger
Whisk these dry ingredients until fully blended.
Step 3: Add Sugars
Add:
– Granulated sugar
– Brown sugar
Mix until well combined.
Step 4: Incorporate Oil
Make a well in the center of the mixture and add:
– Canola oil
Mix just until incorporated; the mixture will appear dry.
Step 5: Add Eggs
Add eggs two at a time, mixing after each addition until fully blended.
Step 6: Mix in Pumpkin Puree
Stir in:
– Pumpkin puree
– Water
– Vanilla extract
Continue mixing until everything is evenly combined.
Step 7: Prepare Pans
Divide the batter equally between both prepared bread pans.
Step 8: Make Crumb Topping
In a separate bowl, combine:
– Flour
– Brown sugar
– Cinnamon
Cut in cold butter using a fork or pastry cutter until it resembles coarse crumbs.
Step 9: Top Batter with Crumbs
Sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over both batters in the pans.
Step 10: Bake
Bake for 55–65 minutes or until a cake tester comes out clean. If browning too quickly on top, tent with foil.
Step 11: Cool
Let cool in pans for about 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
Step 12: Slice and Serve
Once cooled, slice your delicious Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping and enjoy!
How to Serve Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping
Serving your Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping can elevate the experience and make it even more delightful. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this flavorful treat.
With Cream Cheese Spread
- Creamy Indulgence: A spread of cream cheese adds a rich, tangy flavor that perfectly complements the sweetness of the pumpkin bread.
Pairing with Coffee or Tea
- Warm Beverages: Enjoy slices of pumpkin bread alongside a steaming cup of coffee or herbal tea for a cozy afternoon snack.
Topped with Whipped Cream
- Light Dessert Option: A dollop of whipped cream on top makes for a delightful dessert, especially when serving guests during fall gatherings.
Served with Fresh Fruit
- Healthy Twist: Pairing your pumpkin bread with fresh fruits like apple slices or berries adds a refreshing contrast and enhances the seasonal flavors.
Accompanied by Ice Cream
- Dessert Delight: A scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream can turn your pumpkin bread into a decadent dessert that’s perfect for special occasions.
How to Perfect Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping
Perfecting your Easy Pumpkin Bread is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your bread turns out moist and delicious every time.
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Using fresh pumpkin puree and high-quality spices will enhance the overall flavor profile of your bread.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mix just until combined to avoid dense bread; overmixing can lead to tough texture.
- Use Room Temperature Eggs: Room temperature eggs incorporate better into the batter, resulting in a fluffier loaf.
- Check Doneness Early: Start checking for doneness at 55 minutes to prevent overbaking; every oven is different.
- Cool Properly: Allow the loaves to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack; this helps maintain moisture.
- Store Correctly: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or freeze for longer storage.
Best Side Dishes for Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping
Pairing side dishes with your Easy Pumpkin Bread can enhance its flavors and create a well-rounded meal. Here are some options that work wonderfully together.
- Apple Cider Salad: A fresh salad featuring mixed greens, sliced apples, walnuts, and a light apple cider vinaigrette adds a crisp element.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like carrots and Brussels sprouts provide a savory balance to the sweetness of the bread.
- Butternut Squash Soup: This creamy soup is comforting and pairs beautifully with pumpkin flavors, making it perfect for fall meals.
- Cheese Platter: An assortment of cheeses, such as brie and gouda, offers creamy textures that complement the crumb topping nicely.
- Maple Glazed Carrots: Sweetened carrots bring an extra layer of flavor that harmonizes well with pumpkin spice notes.
- Cranberry Chutney: The tartness of cranberry chutney contrasts beautifully with sweet pumpkin bread, adding depth to each bite.
- Pecan Pie Bars: For those who love dessert pairings, these bars offer nutty sweetness that aligns perfectly with fall flavors.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and seasonal fruits makes for a healthy side dish that balances indulgence with nutrition.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch for.
- Using the wrong flour: Make sure to use all-purpose flour as specified in the recipe. Using other types can affect the texture of your bread.
- Overmixing the batter: Stir just until ingredients are combined. Overmixing can lead to dense and tough bread.
- Skipping the crumb topping: The crumb topping adds a delightful texture and flavor. Don’t skip this step for the best results!
- Not checking doneness: Always use a cake tester or toothpick to check if your bread is done. If it comes out clean, it’s ready; otherwise, give it more time.
- Ignoring cooling time: Allow your bread to cool in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack. This helps maintain its structure and prevents sogginess.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to one week.
- Wrap each loaf tightly in plastic wrap for added freshness.
Freezing Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping
- Freeze loaves wrapped in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer bag for up to three months.
- Label the bag with the date for easy tracking.
Reheating Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat slices for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on high for 15-20 seconds. Be careful not to overheat, as it may dry out.
- Stovetop: Toast slices in a skillet over medium heat until warmed and slightly crispy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping.
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
You can use fresh pumpkin puree instead of canned, but make sure it’s well cooked and blended smoothly.
How can I customize my Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping?
Add nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits for an extra twist on flavor and texture.
How long does Easy Pumpkin Bread last?
When stored properly, it lasts about one week in the refrigerator or up to three months when frozen.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it according to your preferences. Whether served fresh from the oven or enjoyed later, this bread is sure to become a favorite in your fall baking repertoire!
Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping
Indulge in the cozy flavors of fall with this Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping. This moist and flavorful loaf combines rich pumpkin puree and warm spices, making it a delightful addition to any gathering or cozy breakfast. The crunchy crumb topping adds a layer of texture that perfectly contrasts with the soft, tender bread. Whether enjoyed warm with a pat of butter, paired with your favorite beverage, or as a sweet treat for dessert, this pumpkin bread is sure to become a seasonal favorite. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be frozen for later enjoyment!
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 16 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 3 1/3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 tsp baking soda
- 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- 1/4 tsp ground allspice
- 1/4 tsp ground ginger
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup canola oil
- 4 large eggs
- 1 (15 oz) can pumpkin puree
- 2/3 cup water
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup cold butter, cubed (for crumb topping)
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour (for crumb topping)
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon (for crumb topping)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease two 8×4 bread pans.
- In a large bowl, mix flour, salt, baking soda, and spices.
- Stir in granulated and brown sugars until combined.
- Create a well in the center, add canola oil; mix until blended.
- Incorporate eggs one at a time until fully mixed.
- Add pumpkin puree, water, and vanilla; mix well.
- Pour batter into prepared pans evenly.
- For the crumb topping: combine flour, brown sugar, cinnamon; cut in cold butter until crumbly.
- Sprinkle topping over batter in pans.
- Bake for 55–65 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool in pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 166mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 36mg
Keywords: For added texture and flavor, consider mixing in chocolate chips or nuts into the batter. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or freeze for longer storage.
