Pumpkin bread is one of those comforting treats that fills our kitchens with the warm, inviting aroma of fall spices. Whether it’s a crisp autumn morning or we’re simply craving something cozy, this classic recipe from Joy of Cooking never fails to deliver. It’s a timeless favorite that blends rich pumpkin flavor with just the right touch of sweetness.
Ingredients
To create the timeless Joy of Cooking Pumpkin Bread, we need a combination of pantry staples and seasonal ingredients that bring out a cozy, fall-inspired flavor. Here’s the complete list of what we’ll need:
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
Wet Ingredients:
- 1 1/3 cups sugar
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 cup canned pumpkin purée (not pumpkin pie mix)
Optional Add-ins:
- 1/3 to 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (adds a delightful crunch)
- 1/3 cup raisins (for a subtle sweetness)
Tools And Equipment
To create the perfect Joy of Cooking Pumpkin Bread, having the right tools and equipment on hand ensures a seamless baking experience. Below is a meticulously curated list of what we’ll need:
Essential Tools
- Mixing bowls: One large and one medium bowl for combining dry and wet ingredients separately.
- Whisk and silicone spatula: A whisk for mixing the dry ingredients and a spatula for folding the batter to the right consistency.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Precision is key! Ensure accurate measurements with a set of standard measuring cups and teaspoons.
- Sifter or fine mesh sieve: For evenly integrating the dry ingredients and avoiding lumps in the batter.
- Loaf pan: A standard 9×5-inch loaf pan, preferably non-stick or lined with parchment paper for effortless bread removal.
- Cooling rack: To cool the bread evenly without trapping moisture, critical for achieving the perfect texture.
- Kitchen scale (optional): For bakers who prefer absolute accuracy in ingredient weights.
Recommended Equipment
- Hand or stand mixer: To achieve a smooth blend of wet ingredients like sugar, oil, and pumpkin purée.
- Rubber scraper: Ideal for scraping every last bit of batter into the loaf pan to minimize waste.
- Parchment paper: For easy release and less mess, line the loaf pan before pouring the batter.
- Knife or offset spatula: For smoothing the top of the batter for an even rise during baking.
Here’s a quick reference table showcasing the basic and optional tools:
| Tool | Purpose | Essential/Optional |
|---|---|---|
| Mixing bowls | Combining wet and dry ingredients | Essential |
| Whisk | Mixing dry ingredients | Essential |
| Measuring cups/spoons | Accurate measurements for ingredients | Essential |
| Loaf pan (9×5-inch) | Shaping the bread during baking | Essential |
| Cooling rack | Cooling the bread evenly | Essential |
| Sifter or fine mesh sieve | Removing lumps in dry ingredients | Optional |
| Hand or stand mixer | Blending wet ingredients thoroughly | Optional |
| Parchment paper | Easy bread removal and cleanup | Optional |
| Kitchen scale | Weight measurement for precision | Optional |
Equipped with these Tools And Equipment, we’re set to bring out the rich flavors and perfect texture of this beloved bread.
Directions
Let’s dive into the step-by-step process for making the Joy of Cooking Pumpkin Bread. Follow these directions closely to achieve that perfect balance of moist texture and spiced flavor.
Prep
- Prepare the loaf pan: Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan thoroughly with butter or nonstick spray. For added convenience, line it with parchment paper, allowing the edges to overhang for easy bread removal.
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and allow it to fully preheat.
- Prepare the ingredients: Measure all ingredients accurately. If needed, sift the dry ingredients (flour, baking soda, salt, and spices) together for even distribution.
| Step | Action | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Prepping the pan | Grease and line | Use parchment to prevent sticking. |
| Preheating the oven | Set to 350°F | Ensures consistent cooking temperature. |
| Preparing the ingredients | Measure and sift | Promotes even mixing and texture. |
Mixing The Batter
- Whisk the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1½ teaspoons of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, ½ teaspoon of salt, and spices (like 1½ teaspoons of cinnamon and ½ teaspoon of nutmeg). Mix well and set aside.
- Combine the wet ingredients: In another large bowl, whisk together 1 cup of granulated sugar, ½ cup of vegetable oil, and 2 large eggs until smooth and creamy. Stir in the 1 cup of canned pumpkin purée and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
- Incorporate the dry into the wet: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir gently to combine until no streaks of flour remain. Be careful not to overmix to maintain a tender crumb.
- Optional add-ins: If using, gently fold in ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans and/or ½ cup of raisins.
Pro Tip: Use a rubber spatula to scrape down the sides of the bowl and ensure all ingredients are well incorporated.
Baking The Pumpkin Bread
- Pour the batter: Carefully pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Use a spatula to level the surface for even baking.
- Bake: Place in the center of the preheated oven and bake for 55-65 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Monitor progress: If the top starts to brown too quickly, loosely tent the loaf with aluminum foil after 40 minutes.
| Step | Temperature/Time | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Baking the bread | 350°F, 55-65 minutes | Use a toothpick to check readiness. |
| Preventing over-brown | Tent with foil | Add foil after 40 minutes if needed. |
Cooling And Slicing
- Cool the bread: Once baked, allow the loaf to cool in the pan on a cooling rack for 10 minutes.
- Remove from pan: Use the parchment paper overhang to carefully lift the bread out of the pan. Place it on the cooling rack and let it cool completely for at least 1 hour before slicing.
- Slice and serve: Use a sharp serrated knife for clean slices. Serve plain or with a spread like butter or cream cheese for added indulgence.
Tips For Perfect Pumpkin Bread
Creating the perfect pumpkin bread involves more than just following the recipe. Paying attention to small details can elevate the results from good to outstanding. Below, we’ve compiled essential tips to ensure your pumpkin bread turns out moist, flavorful, and irresistibly delicious every time.
1. Measure Ingredients Accurately
Using proper measurements is critical for consistent results. Always level off dry ingredients like flour with a straight edge and use liquid measuring cups for wet ingredients. If available, we highly recommend a kitchen scale for precision, especially when making baked goods.
2. Choose the Right Pumpkin Purée
Ensure you’re using 100% pure pumpkin purée and not pumpkin pie filling, as the latter contains added sugars and spices that will overpower the recipe. If you prefer homemade purée, strain it to remove excess liquid for the ideal consistency.
3. Don’t Overmix the Batter
Once the wet and dry ingredients are combined, gently fold them together just until no streaks of flour remain. Overmixing can develop excess gluten, resulting in tougher bread. The batter should look thick yet slightly lumpy.
4. Use the Correct Pan Size
Stick to a 9×5-inch loaf pan, as the Joy of Cooking Pumpkin Bread recipe is calibrated for this size. Using a pan that’s too small may cause overflow, while a larger pan could lead to uneven baking.
5. Monitor Oven Temperature
A reliable oven thermometer is essential to ensure your oven is baking at the correct 350°F (175°C) temperature. Ovens can vary, and even slight differences can affect baking times and results. Place your loaf pan in the center of the oven for even cooking.
6. Prevent Over-Browning
If the top of your bread begins to brown too quickly, tent it loosely with aluminum foil during the last 15-20 minutes of baking. This trick will protect the crust while allowing the interior to remain moist and bake thoroughly.
7. Check Doneness Correctly
Insert a toothpick or cake tester into the center of the loaf around the 55-minute mark. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, the bread is done. Avoid overbaking, as it can lead to dry, crumbly texture.
8. Cool Properly
Allow the bread to cool in the loaf pan for 10 minutes to set its structure and make it easier to remove. Transfer it carefully to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing – this preserves the loaf’s tender crumb and prevents crumbling.
9. Enhance Flavor With Add-Ins
Optional ingredients like chopped walnuts, pecans, or raisins can customize your bread. Fold these into the batter gently to distribute them evenly without deflating the mixture. Up to 1/2 cup of add-ins is usually the perfect amount.
Quick Reference Checklist for Success:
| Tip | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Use accurate measurements | Ensures consistent texture and flavor. |
| Choose pure pumpkin purée | Avoids overly sweet or spiced results. |
| Fold batter gently | Maintains a tender crumb without dense texture. |
| Use a 9×5-inch loaf pan | Prevents overflow or uneven cooking. |
| Check oven temperature | Prevents underbaking or overbaking. |
| Tent with foil if browning occurs | Prevents a burnt crust while keeping the bread moist inside. |
| Cool in pan before removing | Allows structure to stabilize for clean slicing. |
Keep these tips in mind when crafting your Joy of Cooking Pumpkin Bread, and you’ll experience consistently bakery-quality results every time.
Make-Ahead And Storage Instructions
When it comes to pumpkin bread, preparation and storage are key to maintaining its moist texture and warm flavors. Here’s how we can make it ahead of time and store it properly to enjoy it at its best.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Prepare in Advance: Pumpkin bread can be baked up to 2 days ahead. After baking, let it cool completely on a wire rack. This ensures the bread’s structure and texture remain intact.
- Wrap It Right: Wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap or foil to shield it from air exposure. If your bread has cooled down properly, this step will help lock in its moisture.
- Freezing Instructions: For extended make-ahead options, pumpkin bread freezes wonderfully for up to 3 months:
- Wrap the entire loaf or individual slices in two layers — first with plastic wrap, then with aluminum foil.
- Place the wrapped bread in a freezer-safe zip-top bag, squeezing out as much air as possible.
- Label the bag with the baking date to keep track of freshness.
Storage Instructions
Countertop Storage
- Store at room temperature for up to 3 days:
- Keep the wrapped bread in a cool, dry place to protect it from heat and humidity.
- Avoid refrigeration unless necessary, as it might dry out the bread.
Refrigeration
- For warmer climates or longer freshness, store it in the refrigerator for up to 1 week:
- Place the wrapped loaf or slices in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Freezer Storage
Here’s the summarized process to freeze and thaw your pumpkin bread for later enjoyment:
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| Wrapping | Use plastic wrap, followed by foil, to shield against freezer burn. |
| Storage | Place in a freezer-safe bag and remove excess air to prevent ice crystals from forming. |
| Thawing | Transfer to the refrigerator overnight, then bring to room temperature before serving. |
Quick Serving Idea
When serving, toast a slice of thawed pumpkin bread and slather it with butter, cream cheese, or maple syrup for a warm, indulgent snack.
Conclusion
Pumpkin bread is more than just a seasonal treat; it’s a celebration of comforting flavors and cozy moments. With the Joy of Cooking recipe, we can create a loaf that’s perfectly balanced in taste and texture, ready to delight family and friends alike.
Whether we’re baking for a special occasion or simply indulging in a quiet morning slice, this recipe offers a timeless way to enjoy the warmth of fall spices. Let’s savor each bite and keep the tradition alive, one loaf at a time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes pumpkin bread a comforting treat?
Pumpkin bread is comforting due to its warm aroma and blend of fall spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Its rich pumpkin flavor, paired with a soft texture, makes it the perfect treat for cozy autumn mornings or satisfying cravings.
What are the essential ingredients for Joy of Cooking Pumpkin Bread?
Essential ingredients include all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and canned pumpkin purée. Optional add-ins like walnuts, pecans, or raisins can enhance flavor and texture.
What tools are necessary to make pumpkin bread?
Essential tools include mixing bowls, a whisk, measuring cups and spoons, a sifter, a 9×5-inch loaf pan, and a cooling rack. Optional tools include a hand or stand mixer, a rubber scraper, parchment paper, and a kitchen scale for precision.
How long should I bake pumpkin bread?
Bake pumpkin bread at 350°F (175°C) for 55-65 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean, the bread is ready.
How do I prevent my pumpkin bread from over-browning?
If your bread begins to brown too quickly, tent it loosely with aluminum foil during the final 15-20 minutes of baking. This keeps the top golden without overcooking.
Can I make pumpkin bread ahead of time?
Yes, pumpkin bread can be made up to 2 days in advance. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil to retain moisture and store it at room temperature or in the refrigerator.
How do I store pumpkin bread?
Pumpkin bread can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days in an airtight container. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 3 months with proper wrapping.
Can I freeze pumpkin bread?
Yes! Wrap pumpkin bread tightly in plastic wrap and foil, label it, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature before serving.
How can I serve pumpkin bread?
Pumpkin bread can be served plain or toasted. For a delicious topping, try butter, cream cheese, or even maple syrup to elevate the flavor.
What tips ensure perfect pumpkin bread every time?
Use pure pumpkin purée, accurately measure ingredients, and avoid overmixing the batter. Stick to the correct pan size, monitor the oven temperature, and allow the bread to cool properly for the best texture and flavor.