Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy and heartwarming treat to enjoy this fall, then this Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is just what you need! This beloved recipe has been a staple in my kitchen for years. With its moist, spiced loaf and sweet, creamy topping, it brings together the rich flavors of pumpkin and warm spices that make every bite feel like a hug. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings where everyone can gather around a slice (or two!).

Whether you’re sipping on a warm cup of tea or hosting a festive brunch, this pumpkin bread will surely delight your loved ones. Plus, the cream cheese frosting adds that special touch, making it an irresistible dessert option. Let’s dive into why you’ll love making this delightful treat!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe comes together quickly with simple steps, making it perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Family Favorite: Everyone loves the combination of pumpkin and spice; it’s sure to please both kids and adults alike!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the bread in advance and enjoy it throughout the week for breakfast or dessert.
• Delicious Flavor: The blend of spices creates a warm aroma that fills your kitchen while baking, inviting everyone to come and taste.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy it plain or topped with the luscious cream cheese frosting—either way, it’s fantastic!

Ingredients You’ll Need

To whip up this delightful Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients that are likely already in your pantry. Gather these goodies to create a lovely loaf that your family will adore!

For the Pumpkin Bread

• 2 cups (240 g) all purpose flour
• 1 tsp (6 g) baking soda
• 2 tsp (6 g) ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• ½ tsp ground nutmeg
• ½ tsp ground cloves
• ¼ tsp ground cardamom
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ cup (118 ml) canola oil
• ¾ cup (150 g) granulated sugar
• ½ cup (100 g) light brown sugar
• 2 large eggs (US), room temperature
• 1¼ cup (325 g) canned pumpkin puree
• 2 tsp (10 ml) vanilla extract

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

• 4 oz. (113 g) cream cheese, room temperature
• 4 tbsp (57 g) unsalted butter, room temperature
• 1 tsp (5 ml) vanilla extract
• 1 cup (125 g) powdered sugar
• 1-3 tsp (5-15 ml) milk, as needed

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative and adjust it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
• Incorporate Chocolate Chips: Mix in semi-sweet chocolate chips for an indulgent twist.
• Use Different Spices: Experiment with spices like allspice or cardamom to create your signature flavor profile.
• Make Mini Loaves: Bake in mini loaf pans for adorable individual servings—perfect for sharing!

How to Make Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper. Preparing your pan properly ensures that the bread will release easily once baked.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, cardamom, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients first helps distribute the leavening agents evenly throughout the batter.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix canola oil, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract until smooth. This step is crucial because combining these ingredients well will create a moist base for your pumpkin bread.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; it’s okay if there are a few lumps! Overmixing can lead to dense bread instead of that light texture we all love.

Step 5: Bake Your Pumpkin Bread

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake in your preheated oven for about 55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The aroma will be simply irresistible by now!

Step 6: Cool and Prepare Frosting

Once baked, let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Meanwhile, prepare your cream cheese frosting by beating together cream cheese and butter until creamy. Add vanilla extract followed by powdered sugar; mix well until smooth. If it’s too thick, add milk one teaspoon at a time until desired consistency is reached.

Step 7: Frost Your Bread

Once cooled completely, spread your delicious cream cheese frosting generously over the top of your pumpkin bread. Slice it up—and enjoy every bite!

This Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home! Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Baking can be a wonderfully rewarding experience, and these tips will help ensure your pumpkin bread turns out perfectly every time!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing your eggs and cream cheese to room temperature helps them mix more evenly into the batter, resulting in a smoother texture.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Overmixing can lead to dense bread. Mix just until the dry ingredients are combined with the wet ones for a light and fluffy loaf.

• Check your spices for freshness: Spices lose their potency over time. Using fresh spices will enhance the flavor profile of your pumpkin bread, making it aromatic and delicious.

• Let it cool before frosting: Allowing your pumpkin bread to cool completely before adding the cream cheese frosting prevents it from melting and creates a beautiful glaze that holds its shape.

• Store properly: To keep your pumpkin bread moist, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

How to Serve Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Serving this delightful pumpkin bread can be as creative as you want! Here are some fun ideas to make it even more special.

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some chopped walnuts or pecans on top of the frosting for added crunch and flavor.
• Ground cinnamon: A light dusting of ground cinnamon adds an extra touch of warmth and enhances the fall flavors.
• Pumpkin seeds: Toasted pumpkin seeds not only add a nice visual contrast but also bring in that nutty flavor that complements the bread beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Hot coffee or tea: A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea pairs perfectly with this sweet treat, balancing out its richness.
• Fresh fruit salad: A light and refreshing fruit salad can offer a bright contrast to the dense pumpkin bread, making for a well-rounded breakfast or dessert.
• Yogurt parfait: Layer some yogurt with granola and fresh fruits for a delightful side that adds creaminess and crunch alongside your loaf.
• Spiced chai latte: This cozy beverage complements the spices in the pumpkin bread while adding an aromatic touch to your meal.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll be ready to impress family and friends with your delicious Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can make it in advance, ensuring you always have a sweet treat on hand. Here’s how to store it properly.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover pumpkin bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• If you prefer to keep it longer, refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to a week.
• Always allow the cream cheese frosting to come to room temperature before serving, as this will enhance its creamy texture.

Freezing

• To freeze the pumpkin bread, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months—just remember to label the package with the date!
• For best results, slice the bread before freezing so you can easily take out individual pieces.

Reheating

• To reheat your pumpkin bread, simply place a slice in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
• For a slightly crispier texture, you can toast it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes.
• If reheating from frozen, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator before warming.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delightful Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe.

Can I make Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting ahead of time?

Absolutely! This recipe is great for make-ahead options. You can bake the bread and frost it a day or two before serving. Just store it properly!

What can I substitute if I don’t have cream cheese?

If you’re looking for an alternative, you can use vegan cream cheese or a whipped coconut cream mixture for a dairy-free option.

How do I know when my Pumpkin Bread is fully cooked?

To test if your pumpkin bread is done, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, it’s ready!

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?

Yes! You can use fresh pumpkin. Just make sure it’s well-pureed and cooked until soft before adding it to your batter.

What’s the best way to enjoy Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting?

This delectable loaf is perfect as a breakfast treat or afternoon snack. Pair it with your favorite hot beverage for the ultimate cozy experience!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe as much as I do! It’s such a wonderful way to celebrate the flavors of fall. The combination of spices and creamy frosting makes each bite truly special. Remember, baking should be fun and rewarding—so don’t hesitate to get creative! Happy baking and enjoy every slice!