Soft Pumpkin Swirl Bread Recipe for Fall

There’s something magical about the first bite of pumpkin bread in the fall—soft, moist, and beautifully spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg. Pumpkin recipes sweet and comforting are more than just food; they’re a tradition that signals cooler weather, cozy evenings, and the start of holiday warmth. This soft pumpkin swirl bread recipe isn’t just another pumpkin dessert idea—it’s a tender loaf with a ribbon of fragrant cinnamon running through the middle, making it extra indulgent. In this article, you’ll find the story behind this bread, step‑by‑step instructions, creative variations, and answers to your most common baking questions.

A Fall Memory with Pumpkin Bread

Every family has a fall tradition, and for me, it was baking pumpkin swirl bread in the heart of October. The windows would fog slightly from the warmth of the oven, while the crisp autumn air outside carried the promise of falling leaves and cozy sweaters. As the bread baked, the house filled with the irresistible scent of cinnamon and pumpkin—a fragrance that felt like autumn wrapped in a blanket.

My family loved gathering around, slicing into a warm loaf of pumpkin bread, and enjoying it with steaming cups of tea. Among pumpkin recipes dessert favorites, this one always felt the most comforting. It turned simple moments into cherished memories, proving that sometimes the best fall recipes are the ones baked at home with love.

Pumpkin has a way of instantly transporting us to fall. More than just a vegetable, it’s a symbol of harvest season, family gatherings, and the joy of autumn traditions. That’s why sweet bread recipes like pumpkin swirl bread always find a place on the table, whether at breakfast, as an afternoon treat, or as part of holiday desserts.

{ “title”: “Soft Pumpkin Cinnamon Swirl Bread”, “summary”: “A tender, warmly spiced pumpkin loaf with a ribbon of cinnamon sugar—cozy, moist, and perfect for fall breakfasts or dessert.”, “yields”: “1 loaf (10-12 slices)”, “prep_time”: “15 minutes”, “cook_time”: “60 minutes”, “total_time”: “1 hour 15 minutes”, “ingredients”: [ “1 3/4 cups (220 g) all-purpose flour”, “1 tsp baking soda”, “1/2 tsp baking powder”, “1/2 tsp fine salt”, “1 tsp ground cinnamon”, “1/2 tsp ground nutmeg”, “1/2 tsp ground ginger”, “1 cup (240 g) pumpkin puree”, “2 large eggs, room temperature”, “1/2 cup (120 ml) vegetable oil or melted butter”, “1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar”, “1/4 cup (50 g) packed brown sugar”, “1 tsp vanilla extract”, “Cinnamon Swirl: 1/3 cup (65 g) granulated sugar”, “Cinnamon Swirl: 2 tsp ground cinnamon”, “Cinnamon Swirl: 1 tbsp melted butter (optional)”, “Optional topping: 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts” ], “instructions”: [ “Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-in loaf pan and line with a parchment sling.”, “Whisk flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger in a bowl.”, “In a large bowl whisk pumpkin, eggs, oil (or butter), granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla until smooth.”, “Add dry ingredients to wet and fold just until combined; do not overmix.”, “Stir cinnamon, sugar, and melted butter (if using) for the swirl in a small bowl.”, “Spread half the batter in the pan. Sprinkle half the swirl over. Add remaining batter, then the rest of the swirl.”, “Drag a knife in gentle S-shapes through the loaf to marble. Sprinkle nuts on top if using.”, “Bake 55–65 minutes, until a toothpick in the center comes out clean; tent with foil if browning early.”, “Cool 10 minutes in pan, then lift out to a rack to cool completely before slicing.” ], “nutrition”: { “calories”:

---

• Total Time: { "title": "Soft Pumpkin Cinnamon Swirl Bread", "summary": "A tender, warmly spiced pumpkin loaf with a ribbon of cinnamon sugar—cozy, moist, and perfect for fall breakfasts or dessert.", "yields": "1 loaf (10-12 slices)", "prep_time": "15 minutes", "cook_time": "60 minutes", "total_time": "1 hour 15 minutes", "ingredients": [ "1 3/4 cups (220 g) all-purpose flour", "1 tsp baking soda", "1/2 tsp baking powder", "1/2 tsp fine salt", "1 tsp ground cinnamon", "1/2 tsp ground nutmeg", "1/2 tsp ground ginger", "1 cup (240 g) pumpkin puree", "2 large eggs, room temperature", "1/2 cup (120 ml) vegetable oil or melted butter", "1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar", "1/4 cup (50 g) packed brown sugar", "1 tsp vanilla extract", "Cinnamon Swirl: 1/3 cup (65 g) granulated sugar", "Cinnamon Swirl: 2 tsp ground cinnamon", "Cinnamon Swirl: 1 tbsp melted butter (optional)", "Optional topping: 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts" ], "instructions": [ "Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5-in loaf pan and line with a parchment sling.", "Whisk flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger in a bowl.", "In a large bowl whisk pumpkin, eggs, oil (or butter), granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla until smooth.", "Add dry ingredients to wet and fold just until combined; do not overmix.", "Stir cinnamon, sugar, and melted butter (if using) for the swirl in a small bowl.", "Spread half the batter in the pan. Sprinkle half the swirl over. Add remaining batter, then the rest of the swirl.", "Drag a knife in gentle S-shapes through the loaf to marble. Sprinkle nuts on top if using.", "Bake 55–65 minutes, until a toothpick in the center comes out clean; tent with foil if browning early.", "Cool 10 minutes in pan, then lift out to a rack to cool completely before slicing." ], "nutrition": { "calories":
• Yield: { "title": "Soft Pumpkin Cinnamon Swirl Bread", "summary": "A tender, warmly spiced pumpkin loaf with a ribbon of cinnamon sugar—cozy, moist, and perfect for fall breakfasts or dessert.", "yields": "1 loaf (10-12 slices)", "prep_time": "15 minutes", "cook_time": "60 minutes", "total_time": "1 hour 15 minutes", "ingredients": [ "1 3/4 cups (220 g) all-purpose flour", "1 tsp baking soda", "1/2 tsp baking powder", "1/2 tsp fine salt", "1 tsp ground cinnamon", "1/2 tsp ground nutmeg", "1/2 tsp ground ginger", "1 cup (240 g) pumpkin puree", "2 large eggs, room temperature", "1/2 cup (120 ml) vegetable oil or melted butter", "1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar", "1/4 cup (50 g) packed brown sugar", "1 tsp vanilla extract", "Cinnamon Swirl: 1/3 cup (65 g) granulated sugar", "Cinnamon Swirl: 2 tsp ground cinnamon", "Cinnamon Swirl: 1 tbsp melted butter (optional)", "Optional topping: 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts" ], "instructions": [ "Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5-in loaf pan and line with a parchment sling.", "Whisk flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger in a bowl.", "In a large bowl whisk pumpkin, eggs, oil (or butter), granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla until smooth.", "Add dry ingredients to wet and fold just until combined; do not overmix.", "Stir cinnamon, sugar, and melted butter (if using) for the swirl in a small bowl.", "Spread half the batter in the pan. Sprinkle half the swirl over. Add remaining batter, then the rest of the swirl.", "Drag a knife in gentle S-shapes through the loaf to marble. Sprinkle nuts on top if using.", "Bake 55–65 minutes, until a toothpick in the center comes out clean; tent with foil if browning early.", "Cool 10 minutes in pan, then lift out to a rack to cool completely before slicing." ], "nutrition": { "calories":

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Description

{
“title”: “Soft Pumpkin Cinnamon Swirl Bread”,
“summary”: “A tender, warmly spiced pumpkin loaf with a ribbon of cinnamon sugar—cozy, moist, and perfect for fall breakfasts or dessert.”,
“yields”: “1 loaf (10-12 slices)”,
“prep_time”: “15 minutes”,
“cook_time”: “60 minutes”,
“total_time”: “1 hour 15 minutes”,
“ingredients”: [
“1 3/4 cups (220 g) all-purpose flour”,
“1 tsp baking soda”,
“1/2 tsp baking powder”,
“1/2 tsp fine salt”,
“1 tsp ground cinnamon”,
“1/2 tsp ground nutmeg”,
“1/2 tsp ground ginger”,
“1 cup (240 g) pumpkin puree”,
“2 large eggs, room temperature”,
“1/2 cup (120 ml) vegetable oil or melted butter”,
“1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar”,
“1/4 cup (50 g) packed brown sugar”,
“1 tsp vanilla extract”,
“Cinnamon Swirl: 1/3 cup (65 g) granulated sugar”,
“Cinnamon Swirl: 2 tsp ground cinnamon”,
“Cinnamon Swirl: 1 tbsp melted butter (optional)”,
“Optional topping: 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts”
],
“instructions”: [
“Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-in loaf pan and line with a parchment sling.”,
“Whisk flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger in a bowl.”,
“In a large bowl whisk pumpkin, eggs, oil (or butter), granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla until smooth.”,
“Add dry ingredients to wet and fold just until combined; do not overmix.”,
“Stir cinnamon, sugar, and melted butter (if using) for the swirl in a small bowl.”,
“Spread half the batter in the pan. Sprinkle half the swirl over. Add remaining batter, then the rest of the swirl.”,
“Drag a knife in gentle S-shapes through the loaf to marble. Sprinkle nuts on top if using.”,
“Bake 55–65 minutes, until a toothpick in the center comes out clean; tent with foil if browning early.”,
“Cool 10 minutes in pan, then lift out to a rack to cool completely before slicing.”
],
“nutrition”: {
“calories”:

---

Ingredients

{
“title”: “Soft Pumpkin Cinnamon Swirl Bread”,
“summary”: “A tender, warmly spiced pumpkin loaf with a ribbon of cinnamon sugar—cozy, moist, and perfect for fall breakfasts or dessert.”,
“yields”: “1 loaf (10-12 slices)”,
“prep_time”: “15 minutes”,
“cook_time”: “60 minutes”,
“total_time”: “1 hour 15 minutes”,
“ingredients”: [
“1 3/4 cups (220 g) all-purpose flour”,
“1 tsp baking soda”,
“1/2 tsp baking powder”,
“1/2 tsp fine salt”,
“1 tsp ground cinnamon”,
“1/2 tsp ground nutmeg”,
“1/2 tsp ground ginger”,
“1 cup (240 g) pumpkin puree”,
“2 large eggs, room temperature”,
“1/2 cup (120 ml) vegetable oil or melted butter”,
“1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar”,
“1/4 cup (50 g) packed brown sugar”,
“1 tsp vanilla extract”,
“Cinnamon Swirl: 1/3 cup (65 g) granulated sugar”,
“Cinnamon Swirl: 2 tsp ground cinnamon”,
“Cinnamon Swirl: 1 tbsp melted butter (optional)”,
“Optional topping: 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts”
],
“instructions”: [
“Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-in loaf pan and line with a parchment sling.”,
“Whisk flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger in a bowl.”,
“In a large bowl whisk pumpkin, eggs, oil (or butter), granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla until smooth.”,
“Add dry ingredients to wet and fold just until combined; do not overmix.”,
“Stir cinnamon, sugar, and melted butter (if using) for the swirl in a small bowl.”,
“Spread half the batter in the pan. Sprinkle half the swirl over. Add remaining batter, then the rest of the swirl.”,
“Drag a knife in gentle S-shapes through the loaf to marble. Sprinkle nuts on top if using.”,
“Bake 55–65 minutes, until a toothpick in the center comes out clean; tent with foil if browning early.”,
“Cool 10 minutes in pan, then lift out to a rack to cool completely before slicing.”
],
“nutrition”: {
“calories”:

---

Instructions

1. {
“title”: “Soft Pumpkin Cinnamon Swirl Bread”,
“summary”: “A tender, warmly spiced pumpkin loaf with a ribbon of cinnamon sugar—cozy, moist, and perfect for fall breakfasts or dessert.”,
“yields”: “1 loaf (10-12 slices)”,
“prep_time”: “15 minutes”,
“cook_time”: “60 minutes”,
“total_time”: “1 hour 15 minutes”,
“ingredients”: [
“1 3/4 cups (220 g) all-purpose flour”,
“1 tsp baking soda”,
“1/2 tsp baking powder”,
“1/2 tsp fine salt”,
“1 tsp ground cinnamon”,
“1/2 tsp ground nutmeg”,
“1/2 tsp ground ginger”,
“1 cup (240 g) pumpkin puree”,
“2 large eggs, room temperature”,
“1/2 cup (120 ml) vegetable oil or melted butter”,
“1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar”,
“1/4 cup (50 g) packed brown sugar”,
“1 tsp vanilla extract”,
“Cinnamon Swirl: 1/3 cup (65 g) granulated sugar”,
“Cinnamon Swirl: 2 tsp ground cinnamon”,
“Cinnamon Swirl: 1 tbsp melted butter (optional)”,
“Optional topping: 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts”
],
“instructions”: [
“Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-in loaf pan and line with a parchment sling.”,
“Whisk flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger in a bowl.”,
“In a large bowl whisk pumpkin, eggs, oil (or butter), granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla until smooth.”,
“Add dry ingredients to wet and fold just until combined; do not overmix.”,
“Stir cinnamon, sugar, and melted butter (if using) for the swirl in a small bowl.”,
“Spread half the batter in the pan. Sprinkle half the swirl over. Add remaining batter, then the rest of the swirl.”,
“Drag a knife in gentle S-shapes through the loaf to marble. Sprinkle nuts on top if using.”,
“Bake 55–65 minutes, until a toothpick in the center comes out clean; tent with foil if browning early.”,
“Cool 10 minutes in pan, then lift out to a rack to cool completely before slicing.”
],
“nutrition”: {
“calories”:

• Prep Time: { "title": "Soft Pumpkin Cinnamon Swirl Bread", "summary": "A tender, warmly spiced pumpkin loaf with a ribbon of cinnamon sugar—cozy, moist, and perfect for fall breakfasts or dessert.", "yields": "1 loaf (10-12 slices)", "prep_time": "15 minutes", "cook_time": "60 minutes", "total_time": "1 hour 15 minutes", "ingredients": [ "1 3/4 cups (220 g) all-purpose flour", "1 tsp baking soda", "1/2 tsp baking powder", "1/2 tsp fine salt", "1 tsp ground cinnamon", "1/2 tsp ground nutmeg", "1/2 tsp ground ginger", "1 cup (240 g) pumpkin puree", "2 large eggs, room temperature", "1/2 cup (120 ml) vegetable oil or melted butter", "1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar", "1/4 cup (50 g) packed brown sugar", "1 tsp vanilla extract", "Cinnamon Swirl: 1/3 cup (65 g) granulated sugar", "Cinnamon Swirl: 2 tsp ground cinnamon", "Cinnamon Swirl: 1 tbsp melted butter (optional)", "Optional topping: 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts" ], "instructions": [ "Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5-in loaf pan and line with a parchment sling.", "Whisk flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger in a bowl.", "In a large bowl whisk pumpkin, eggs, oil (or butter), granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla until smooth.", "Add dry ingredients to wet and fold just until combined; do not overmix.", "Stir cinnamon, sugar, and melted butter (if using) for the swirl in a small bowl.", "Spread half the batter in the pan. Sprinkle half the swirl over. Add remaining batter, then the rest of the swirl.", "Drag a knife in gentle S-shapes through the loaf to marble. Sprinkle nuts on top if using.", "Bake 55–65 minutes, until a toothpick in the center comes out clean; tent with foil if browning early.", "Cool 10 minutes in pan, then lift out to a rack to cool completely before slicing." ], "nutrition": { "calories":
• Cook Time: { "title": "Soft Pumpkin Cinnamon Swirl Bread", "summary": "A tender, warmly spiced pumpkin loaf with a ribbon of cinnamon sugar—cozy, moist, and perfect for fall breakfasts or dessert.", "yields": "1 loaf (10-12 slices)", "prep_time": "15 minutes", "cook_time": "60 minutes", "total_time": "1 hour 15 minutes", "ingredients": [ "1 3/4 cups (220 g) all-purpose flour", "1 tsp baking soda", "1/2 tsp baking powder", "1/2 tsp fine salt", "1 tsp ground cinnamon", "1/2 tsp ground nutmeg", "1/2 tsp ground ginger", "1 cup (240 g) pumpkin puree", "2 large eggs, room temperature", "1/2 cup (120 ml) vegetable oil or melted butter", "1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar", "1/4 cup (50 g) packed brown sugar", "1 tsp vanilla extract", "Cinnamon Swirl: 1/3 cup (65 g) granulated sugar", "Cinnamon Swirl: 2 tsp ground cinnamon", "Cinnamon Swirl: 1 tbsp melted butter (optional)", "Optional topping: 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts" ], "instructions": [ "Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5-in loaf pan and line with a parchment sling.", "Whisk flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger in a bowl.", "In a large bowl whisk pumpkin, eggs, oil (or butter), granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla until smooth.", "Add dry ingredients to wet and fold just until combined; do not overmix.", "Stir cinnamon, sugar, and melted butter (if using) for the swirl in a small bowl.", "Spread half the batter in the pan. Sprinkle half the swirl over. Add remaining batter, then the rest of the swirl.", "Drag a knife in gentle S-shapes through the loaf to marble. Sprinkle nuts on top if using.", "Bake 55–65 minutes, until a toothpick in the center comes out clean; tent with foil if browning early.", "Cool 10 minutes in pan, then lift out to a rack to cool completely before slicing." ], "nutrition": { "calories":

A good pumpkin bread recipe highlights the natural sweetness and moisture of pumpkin, while a swirl of cinnamon adds depth and warmth. Together, they create a loaf that embodies the essence of the season. For many bakers, especially beginners looking for fall baking recipes, pumpkin swirl bread becomes a go‑to because it’s simple yet impressive. It’s the kind of bread that belongs in every collection of bread recipes sweet and is guaranteed to make your kitchen feel like the heart of autumn.

Ingredients & Tools You’ll Need

Essential Ingredients for Pumpkin Swirl Bread

Every pumpkin bread recipe starts with a handful of pantry staples, but the magic comes from balancing pumpkin puree with warm spices and just the right amount of sweetness. Since this loaf has that beautiful cinnamon swirl, we’ll divide the ingredients into two parts: one for the pumpkin bread base and one for the swirl mixture.

This combination creates a moist, tender bread with a harmonious balance of pumpkin flavor and spice. The swirl mixture, simple yet flavorful, gives this pumpkin recipes dessert idea its signature ribbon that makes every slice special.

Must-Have Tools & Baking Prep

Great bread recipes sweet are as much about proper tools and prep as they are about ingredients. To make this pumpkin swirl bread recipe stress‑free, gather these basics:

• Loaf Pan (9×5‑inch works best) – Provides structure so the bread rises evenly.
• Mixing Bowls – One large for wet ingredients, another for dry.
• Whisk & Spatula – A whisk helps incorporate air, a spatula keeps mixing gentle.
• Measuring Cups & Spoons – Precision is key.
• Parchment Paper & Nonstick Spray – Ensures the bread releases easily and keeps its swirl intact.

Baking Prep Tip: Before you start, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), grease your loaf pan, and line it with parchment. Having everything ready makes fall baking recipes simple and stress-free.

Step-by-Step Method & Tasty Variations

Baking the Pumpkin Swirl Bread Step by Step

1. Mix the dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and spices.
2. Combine the wet ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk eggs, pumpkin puree, oil, sugars, and vanilla until smooth.
3. Bring the batter together: Add the dry mixture to wet; stir until just combined.
4. Prepare the swirl: Mix cinnamon, sugar, and melted butter in a small bowl.
5. Layer the batter and swirl: Fill pan with half the batter, sprinkle half the swirl, add remaining batter, top with swirl, and drag a knife in “S” shapes for ripples.
6. Bake: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 55–65 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Cool and enjoy: Let cool for 10 minutes in the pan, then transfer to a wire rack. Slice when fully cooled.

Creative Variations for Your Pumpkin Bread

• Cream Cheese Swirl: Layer softened cream cheese blended with sugar and vanilla for tangy richness.
• Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread: Fold in chocolate chips for extra indulgence.
• Nutty Crunch: Add walnuts or pecans for a rustic bite.
• Glazed Finish: Drizzle a vanilla or maple glaze over the cooled loaf.
• Pumpkin Muffins: Bake the batter in muffin tins for 20–25 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make pumpkin swirl bread ahead of time?

Yes, this pumpkin bread recipe actually improves in flavor the next day if wrapped tightly after cooling.

How do I store pumpkin bread so it stays fresh?

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature or up to a week in the refrigerator.

Can I freeze pumpkin swirl bread?

Yes. Wrap in plastic wrap, then foil, or seal in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm gently.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Absolutely—just puree cooked pumpkin and strain excess liquid to match the thick consistency of canned puree.

Can I turn this soft pumpkin swirl bread recipe into muffins?

Yes. Use a lined muffin tin and bake 20–25 minutes at 350°F (175°C).

Conclusion

Pumpkin swirl bread is more than just a seasonal recipe—it’s a warm, inviting tradition that captures the comfort of fall in every slice. The soft pumpkin base, fragrant cinnamon swirl, and cozy aroma make it a staple for breakfasts, snacks, or festive gatherings.

This pumpkin bread recipe is endlessly versatile: enjoy the classic swirl, add cream cheese, fold in chocolate chips, or sprinkle nuts on top. Whatever your style, the result will be a delicious loaf that embodies the joy of fall baking recipes and stands out among pumpkin recipes dessert ideas.

So preheat your oven, gather your spices, and bring the flavors of autumn into your kitchen with homemade pumpkin swirl bread. 🍂