Pumpkin Spice Quick Bread is the kind of treat that instantly fills your kitchen with a cozy autumn aroma and promises comfort in every silky, spiced slice. This loaf is impossibly moist, fragrant with cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, and kissed by the earthy sweetness of real pumpkin. Whether you savor it as breakfast on a crisp morning, sneak a slice for an afternoon snack, or gift it to friends during the holidays, this easy quick bread will steal the spotlight. Pumpkin Spice Quick Bread is not just a seasonal favorite—it’s destined to be a year-round classic in your baking rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Pumpkin Spice Quick Bread Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You don’t need any fancy ingredients to whip up this Pumpkin Spice Quick Bread, just pantry staples that work in perfect harmony. Each ingredient is chosen not only for flavor, but to create that irresistible, soft crumb and golden-brown edge that makes this loaf truly memorable.

All-purpose flour: The backbone of the loaf, giving it just the right amount of structure without being dense.
Baking soda: Helps the quick bread rise tall and light.
Baking powder: Adds an extra boost, ensuring a perfect crumb.
Salt: Balances out sweetness and enhances those beautiful spices.
Ground cinnamon: Delivers signature warmth and makes your kitchen smell like a bakery.
Ground nutmeg: Brings a subtle, almost nutty aroma that makes each bite intriguing.
Ground cloves: Deepens the spice profile and adds depth of flavor.
Ground ginger: Perks up the loaf with a zesty touch.
Pumpkin purée (not pumpkin pie filling): The star ingredient for moisture, color, and natural sweetness.
Vegetable oil (or melted butter): Keeps things incredibly moist and plays well with the pumpkin flavor.
Brown sugar, packed: Lends notes of caramel and extra softness.
Granulated sugar: Enhances sweetness and gives the loaf a tender crumb.
Eggs: Bind everything together and provide richness.
Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavors and complements the spices.
Milk (or buttermilk): Ensures a soft, lush texture you’ll love.

How to Make Pumpkin Spice Quick Bread

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepping a 9×5-inch loaf pan. A swipe of oil or butter along with a parchment paper sling makes sure your Pumpkin Spice Quick Bread pops right out when it’s done (plus, easy cleanup!).

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger. This gives you a flavor-packed base and ensures the leaveners and spices get evenly distributed, so every bite tastes just right.

Step 3: Blend the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk the pumpkin purée, vegetable oil (or melted butter), brown sugar, granulated sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and milk until everything is silky-smooth. This mixture will already smell heavenly, thanks to that pumpkin!

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gently fold the dry ingredients into your wet mixture using a spatula or wooden spoon. Go easy—stir until just combined to keep your loaf tender. A few streaks of flour are perfectly fine; overmixing makes for a tougher crumb.

Step 5: Pour and Bake

Scrape the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth out the top. Pop it into the oven and bake for 55 to 65 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

Step 6: Cooling and Unmolding

Let the freshly baked Pumpkin Spice Quick Bread rest in the pan for about 10 minutes so it sets up—then carefully lift it out (those parchment edges are handy!). Place it on a wire rack to cool completely before slicing for the cleanest cuts and best flavor.

How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Quick Bread

Garnishes

A simple dusting of powdered sugar brightens every slice, but you can take things further with a swirl of cream cheese glaze or a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar just before baking for an extra sweet, sparkly finish. For an autumnal touch, try a few toasted pecans or candied ginger pieces on top.

Side Dishes

This loaf pairs beautifully with a hot cup of chai, coffee, or mulled cider. For breakfast, add a dollop of Greek yogurt and fresh berries on the side, or serve alongside scrambled eggs for a sweet-savory brunch contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

Make individual mini loaves or muffins for grab-and-go treats or gifting. Slice and use for a fall-inspired French toast, layer cubes into a decadent autumn parfait, or toast a slice lightly and slather with apple butter for an extra cozy snack.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Pumpkin Spice Quick Bread stays fresh and delicious for several days. Wrap cooled slices or the whole loaf tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Beyond that, move it to the fridge to extend freshness.

Freezing

This bread is perfect for freezing—simply wrap the entire loaf or individual slices in plastic wrap, then foil, and pop into a freezer bag. Label and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight at room temperature, and it’s just as moist and flavorful as day one.

Reheating

To enjoy that just-baked experience, warm slices gently in the microwave for about 10–15 seconds or wrap in foil and heat in a low oven for 5–10 minutes. This perks up the spices and brings back the bread’s soft crumb.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned purée?

Absolutely! Just be sure to roast, puree, and drain your fresh pumpkin well. Homemade purée tends to be a little more watery than canned, so blotting it with paper towels helps to avoid a soggy loaf.

How do I prevent my Pumpkin Spice Quick Bread from sinking in the middle?

Make sure your oven is fully preheated and avoid overmixing your batter. Also, double-check your baking powder and baking soda aren’t expired—fresh leaveners give the best lift!

Can I add mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts?

Definitely! Stir in up to 1 cup of chocolate chips, walnuts, pecans, or even dried cranberries with the dry ingredients for extra flavor and texture. Just try not to overload the batter.

How do I know when my loaf is done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center—it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. If your oven runs hot or cool, start checking around 50 minutes and add time if needed.

Is Pumpkin Spice Quick Bread suitable for breakfast?

It’s the ultimate breakfast treat! Pumpkin Spice Quick Bread is wholesome enough for mornings, not overly sweet, and pairs well with coffee, tea, or a little fruit on the side.

Final Thoughts

Once you try making Pumpkin Spice Quick Bread at home, you’ll see just how easy—and rewarding—it is to whip up a loaf that could outshine any bakery. Grab a can of pumpkin and welcome those warm fall vibes any time of year!