There’s something magical about the aroma of warm spices filling the kitchen as a loaf of homemade bread bakes. If you’re looking for a treat that’s simple, flavorful, and perfect for the cooler months, this easy moist pumpkin bread recipe with canned pumpkin is just what you need.
It’s the kind of recipe that comes together quickly, requires minimal equipment, and delivers delicious results every time. Whether you’re a beginner baker or someone who enjoys seasonal favorites, this pumpkin bread will become a go-to. Let’s dive into the story, ingredients, and steps to create the perfect loaf.
A Warm Kitchen Memory with Pumpkin Bread
Pumpkin bread has a way of turning an ordinary day into a cozy one. I still remember the first time I tried a pumpkin bread recipe with canned pumpkin on a crisp autumn afternoon. The leaves outside were bright shades of orange and red, and the oven filled the air with the comforting scent of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. From that moment, I realized how much joy a simple loaf can bring—not just from eating it but from the experience of baking it.
Many people love this easy moist pumpkin bread recipe because it feels approachable no matter your baking skills. There’s no need for fancy techniques or professional equipment—just a bowl, a whisk, and a loaf pan. The texture comes out soft and tender, the flavor rich with spice, and the moisture level spot-on. It’s the type of bread you can slice for breakfast, enjoy as an afternoon snack, or share with friends over coffee.
This recipe balances both tradition and convenience. You get the cozy, old-fashioned flavor of pumpkin bread paired with the reliability of canned pumpkin. The rhythm of whisking, folding, and baking creates a moment of pause in busy days—a chance to appreciate the season while producing something delicious.
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Easy Moist Pumpkin Bread (with Canned Pumpkin)
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (10 slices) 1x
Description
A cozy, beginner-friendly pumpkin bread made with canned pumpkin for reliable moisture, warm spice, and effortless prep.
Ingredients
1 cup canned pumpkin puree
1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
2 large eggs
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp fine salt
2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
1/4 tsp ground cloves (optional)
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 tbsp milk or water
1/2 cup chocolate chips or chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. Whisk flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
3. In another bowl whisk pumpkin, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, oil, vanilla, and milk.
4. Fold dry ingredients into wet just until combined; do not overmix.
5. Fold in chocolate chips or nuts if using.
6. Scrape batter into pan and smooth the top.
7. Bake 55–65 minutes, until a toothpick comes out mostly clean.
8. Cool 10 minutes in pan, then transfer to a rack to cool completely before slicing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
Why Canned Pumpkin Works Best
When it comes to pumpkin bread, consistency matters—and that’s where canned pumpkin outshines fresh. Freshly roasted pumpkins can vary in moisture levels, sweetness, and texture, making recipes unpredictable. By contrast, canned pumpkin offers a smooth and uniform puree, ensuring that your bread always turns out tender and moist.
Another reason canned pumpkin is ideal is convenience. It eliminates the extra steps of peeling, roasting, and pureeing, so you can jump straight into baking. Plus, high-quality canned pumpkin delivers a naturally rich flavor that perfectly complements fall spices. With it, you get the best balance of taste, texture, and ease—making this the standout choice for a reliable pumpkin bread recipe.
Key Ingredients for the Best Ever Pumpkin Bread
Every delicious loaf starts with simple pantry staples. To create the best ever pumpkin bread, you’ll want to gather ingredients that bring both sweetness and warmth while ensuring the loaf stays tender. Here’s a detailed list with measurements for one standard loaf:
| Ingredient | Measurement | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Canned pumpkin puree | 1 cup | Provides moisture, rich flavor, and smooth texture |
| All-purpose flour | 1 ¾ cups | Base structure for the bread |
| Granulated sugar | 1 cup | Sweetness and golden crust |
| Brown sugar (light or dark) | ½ cup | Adds depth and moisture |
| Eggs | 2 large | Binds ingredients, improves structure |
| Vegetable oil (or melted butter) | ½ cup | Keeps the bread soft and moist |
| Baking soda | 1 tsp | Helps bread rise |
| Baking powder | ½ tsp | Boosts lightness |
| Salt | ½ tsp | Balances flavors |
| Ground cinnamon | 2 tsp | Warm spice core |
| Ground nutmeg | ½ tsp | Seasonal depth |
| Ground cloves (optional) | ¼ tsp | Extra spiced note |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp | Enhances flavor |
| Milk or water | 2 tbsp | Loosens texture as needed |
This recipe for pumpkin bread is highly adaptable. You can swap in whole wheat flour for a nuttier finish, use coconut oil instead of vegetable oil, or even reduce the sugar if you prefer a lighter sweetness. For extra indulgence, fold in chocolate chips, walnuts, or dried cranberries.
Essential Baking Tools and Tips
- Mixing bowls: One large for dry ingredients, one medium for wet.
- Whisk or hand mixer: Whisking helps incorporate air for a fluffy crumb.
- Loaf pan (9×5 inch): The classic size for even baking.
- Rubber spatula: Excellent for folding and scraping every bit of batter into the pan.
- Wire cooling rack: Ensures air circulates so the bread cools evenly.
Beginner tips:
- Grease and flour the pan lightly or line with parchment to avoid sticking.
- Don’t overfill the pan—leave an inch from the rim to prevent overflow.
- For healthier twists, replace part of the flour with oats or reduce sugar slightly.
- If in a humid environment, refrigerate after wrapping tightly to extend freshness.
How to Make Moist Pumpkin Bread with Canned Pumpkin
- Preheat and Prepare: Heat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5 loaf pan or line with parchment.
- Mix Dry: In a large bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
- Mix Wet: In another bowl, whisk pumpkin puree, sugars, eggs, oil, vanilla, and milk until smooth.
- Combine: Fold dry mixture into wet in three batches, mixing gently until just combined.
- Bake: Pour into loaf pan, smooth the top, and bake for 55–65 minutes. Test center with a toothpick.
- Cool: Rest in the pan 10 minutes, then remove to a wire rack until fully cooled before slicing.
Following these steps will give your bread a soft crumb, golden crust, and the perfect balance of pumpkin and spice flavor.
Tips for Keeping Pumpkin Bread Moist and Flavorful
- Do not overmix—the batter should be just combined for tenderness.
- Check doneness carefully; a toothpick with only a few crumbs signals it’s ready.
- Allow it to cool fully before wrapping, avoiding trapped steam.
- Store wrapped in foil or plastic in an airtight container to keep pumpkin bread moist best.
- Freeze individual slices for up to three months, thawing as needed.
- Lightly coat add-ins like nuts or chocolate in flour before folding in so they don’t sink.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze homemade pumpkin bread?
Yes, wrap well and freeze for up to three months. Slice first for convenience.
How long does pumpkin bread stay fresh?
3–4 days at room temperature in an airtight container, or up to a week in the fridge.
Can I add chocolate chips or nuts?
Definitely. Coat in flour first to prevent sinking.
What’s the best way to store pumpkin bread?
Wrap tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store in a cool, dry spot, refrigerate for longer life, or freeze slices individually.
Final Thoughts on the Easy Pumpkin Bread Recipe
This easy moist pumpkin bread recipe with canned pumpkin blends the warmth of seasonal spices with the reliability of pantry ingredients. The canned pumpkin ensures a consistently soft, flavorful result every time. It’s a simple bake suited to fall mornings, cozy afternoons, or gatherings with loved ones. With straightforward steps, flexible ingredients, and reliable storage tips, this becomes a staple recipe worth keeping year after year. Bake a loaf, enjoy the aroma, and share comfort with those around you.
