Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping

If you’re looking for a cozy treat that captures the essence of fall, then this Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping is just what you need! The moment you take a slice, you’ll be greeted with the warm flavors of pumpkin and spices, all topped off with a delightful crumbly streusel. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this recipe is perfect for any occasion. It’s easy to whip up and fills your home with an irresistible aroma that will have everyone asking for seconds!

This pumpkin bread is not only delicious but also incredibly moist, making it a favorite among friends and family. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be enjoyed as breakfast, dessert, or even an afternoon snack with your favorite cup of tea or coffee.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 35 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious bread baking in no time!
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet pumpkin flavor and crumbly topping.
• Make-ahead convenience: Bake in batches and freeze for later – perfect for those busy days!
• Rich in flavor: The blend of spices makes this bread a delightful treat that screams autumn.
• Two loaves for sharing: This recipe yields two loaves, so there’s plenty to share with friends or save for later.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create this delightful pumpkin bread. You might already have most of these in your pantry!

For the 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

Variations

This Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping is quite flexible! Feel free to get creative and add your own twist to it.

• Add nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans can give your bread a nice crunch.
• Incorporate chocolate chips: For a sweeter touch, mix in some semi-sweet chocolate chips.
• Try different spices: Experiment by adding cardamom or switching up the ratio of spices based on your taste.
• Make it gluten-free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to cater to dietary preferences while still enjoying this delicious treat.

How to Make Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees. While your oven warms up, grease two 8×4 bread pans. I like to line the bottom with parchment paper and then spray it with baking spray for easy removal later.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, baking soda, and all those lovely spices – cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, allspice, and ginger. Mixing these dry ingredients thoroughly ensures that every slice will be packed with flavor.

Step 3: Add Sugars

Now it’s time to add in both granulated sugar and brown sugar. Stir until well combined. The sugars will not only sweeten the bread but also contribute to its moist texture.

Step 4: Incorporate Oil

Make a well in the center of your dry mixture and pour in the oil. Gently mix just until it’s combined; don’t worry if it looks dry at this stage – we’ve got more ingredients coming!

Step 5: Add Eggs

Next, add in the eggs two at a time, mixing well after each addition. This step helps incorporate air into the batter which gives your bread that nice rise.

Step 6: Blend in Pumpkin Puree

Add in the pumpkin puree along with water and vanilla extract. Mix everything until just combined. This is where that rich pumpkin flavor really comes through!

Step 7: Divide Batter into Pans

Carefully divide the batter between your two greased bread pans. It’s okay if they’re not perfectly even – they’ll taste great either way!

Step 8: Prepare Crumb Topping

In a separate bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon for your crumb topping. Cut in the cold butter using a fork or pastry cutter until you achieve coarse crumbs. This adds an irresistible crunch on top!

Step 9: Sprinkle Topping

Sprinkle that crumb topping evenly over both batters. Don’t be shy! The more crumbs on top means more deliciousness in every bite.

Step 10: Bake Away!

Place your pans in the preheated oven and bake for 55-65 minutes. Keep an eye on them; if they start browning too quickly on top before being fully baked inside, tent them with foil.

Step 11: Cool Down

Once baked through (check with a cake tester), let them cool in the pans for about ten minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

Step 12: Slice & Serve

Finally! Once cooled enough to handle, slice up that beautiful bread and serve it warm or at room temperature. Enjoy every flavorful bite!

Pro Tips for Making Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping

Baking is all about enjoying the process, and these tips will help ensure your pumpkin bread turns out perfectly every time!

• Use fresh ingredients: Always check the freshness of your baking ingredients like baking soda and spices. Fresh ingredients enhance flavor and ensure proper rising.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Mixing too much can lead to dense bread. Stir until just combined to maintain a light, fluffy texture.

• Check for doneness: Ovens can vary in temperature. Insert a toothpick or cake tester into the center; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, your bread is ready!

• Cool completely before slicing: Allowing your pumpkin bread to cool on a wire rack helps preserve its moisture and makes slicing easier without crumbling.

• Experiment with add-ins: Feel free to customize your pumpkin bread with nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits! These additions can bring new flavors and textures to this classic recipe.

How to Serve Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping

Serving your delicious pumpkin bread is just as important as baking it! Here are some fun ways to present this delightful treat that will impress your family and friends.

Garnishes

• Whipped cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a creamy touch that complements the spices beautifully.
• Cinnamon sugar dusting: Sprinkle a light dusting of cinnamon sugar on top of each slice for an extra layer of flavor and visual appeal.
• Chopped nuts: Add some finely chopped pecans or walnuts on top for a crunchy contrast that enhances both texture and taste.

Side Dishes

• Hot apple cider: The warm, spiced notes of apple cider pair wonderfully with pumpkin bread, making it perfect for cozy autumn afternoons.
• Creamy yogurt: Serve slices alongside a bowl of vanilla or Greek yogurt for a refreshing balance to the rich sweetness of the bread.
• Fruit salad: A colorful fruit salad offers a fresh, juicy counterpoint to the dense pumpkin flavors, making for a well-rounded meal.
• Cheese platter: A selection of soft cheeses like cream cheese or goat cheese will provide an interesting savory contrast to the sweet loaf.

Now that you have all these tips and serving suggestions, there’s nothing stopping you from whipping up this delightful Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping! Enjoy every slice and share this tasty treat with loved ones. Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping is perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a batch ahead of time, making it an ideal treat for busy days or last-minute gatherings.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the bread to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap each loaf in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

• Slice the pumpkin bread before freezing for easy serving later.
• Wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap and then place them in an airtight freezer bag.
• The bread can be frozen for up to 3 months. Label the bag with the date!

Reheating

• To reheat, remove a slice from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature.
• For a warm treat, pop it in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or toast it until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delightful recipe:

Can I make this Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup. This will keep your bread deliciously moist and flavorful.

How long does the Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping last?

When stored properly, this bread lasts about 3 days at room temperature or up to a week if refrigerated. It also freezes beautifully for longer storage!

What can I add to my Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping?

Feel free to mix in some nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits to customize your bread. These additions will enhance both texture and flavor!

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned puree?

Yes! If you’re using fresh pumpkin, ensure it’s cooked until soft and pureed smoothly. This will give you a fresh taste without compromising texture.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping as much as I do! Its cozy flavors and delightful crumb topping truly make it special. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or enjoying a quiet moment with a slice and a warm beverage, this recipe is sure to bring joy to your fall baking adventures. Happy baking, and don’t forget to savor every bite!