Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy recipe that fills your kitchen with the warm scents of fall, you’ve come to the right place! This Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is one of my absolute favorites. The moment you pull this delectable loaf out of the oven, your home will be filled with the delightful aroma of spices and pumpkin. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick treat or for those family gatherings where a sweet touch is always appreciated.

What makes this pumpkin bread so special is its moist texture and the luscious cream cheese frosting that perfectly balances the flavors. Whether you’re enjoying it as a breakfast treat or as a dessert after dinner, this recipe is sure to become a beloved staple in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious loaf without any fuss.
• Family Favorite: Everyone loves pumpkin bread, and this version is sure to please both kids and adults alike!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Bake it in advance and store it for busy mornings or surprise guests.
• Flavorful & Moist: The spices and pumpkin combine to create an incredibly moist bread that melts in your mouth.
• Perfectly Topped: The creamy frosting adds a delightful finishing touch that elevates this bread to dessert status.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully to create this pumpkin bread. You might already have many of them in your pantry!

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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
• Spice It Up: Experiment with different spices like allspice or nutmeg for a unique twist.
• Chocolate Chips: Fold in some dark chocolate chips for a sweet surprise in every bite.
• Cranberry Swirl: Add fresh cranberries for a tangy contrast that complements the sweetness.

How to Make Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your bread bakes evenly and rises perfectly while you prepare the batter.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, spices, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients first helps distribute the leavening agent evenly throughout the mixture, ensuring a nice rise.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the canola oil, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract until well blended. This step is crucial because it adds moisture and flavor to your bread.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix! A few lumps are okay; this keeps your bread light and fluffy.

Step 5: Bake

Pour the batter into a greased 9×5 loaf pan. Bake for about 55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The smell will be heavenly—try not to open the oven door too soon!

Step 6: Make the Frosting

While your bread cools on a wire rack, mix together the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add in powdered sugar and vanilla extract. If it’s too thick, blend in milk one teaspoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 7: Frost and Enjoy!

Once cooled completely, spread that delicious cream cheese frosting generously over your pumpkin bread. Slice it up and share with friends—just watch how quickly it disappears!

Now you’re ready to enjoy this warm slice of fall goodness!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Baking this delicious pumpkin bread is a breeze with these simple tips to ensure your loaf turns out perfectly every time!

• Use fresh spices: Freshly ground spices provide a more vibrant flavor compared to pre-ground ones. This will elevate the warmth and depth of your bread, making it truly irresistible.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Mixing too much can lead to dense bread. Stir until the ingredients are just combined for a light and fluffy texture that melts in your mouth.

• Check for doneness with a toothpick: Insert a toothpick into the center of the bread; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, your bread is ready! This prevents overbaking, which can dry out your loaf.

• Let it cool before frosting: Allow the pumpkin bread to cool completely before adding the cream cheese frosting. Frosting on warm bread can lead to melting and sliding off, which isn’t as visually appealing.

• Store properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate for up to a week. This helps maintain moisture and flavor, so you can enjoy it longer.

How to Serve Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Serving your pumpkin bread is an opportunity to get creative! Here are some delightful ways to present this fall treat that will impress family and friends alike.

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some finely chopped walnuts or pecans on top of the frosting for added crunch and flavor contrast.
• Cinnamon sprinkle: A light dusting of cinnamon on top of the cream cheese frosting adds visual appeal and an extra layer of spice.
• Fresh herbs: A small sprig of rosemary or thyme can add a surprising touch that complements the sweetness beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Hot apple cider: The warm, spiced flavors of apple cider pair perfectly with pumpkin bread, creating a cozy autumn experience.
• Yogurt parfait: Layer creamy yogurt with granola and fruit for a refreshing side that balances out the sweetness of the bread.
• Mixed green salad: A light salad with vinaigrette can offer a nice contrast to the rich flavors of the pumpkin bread, making for a well-rounded meal.
• Warm chai tea: The spicy notes in chai tea harmonize wonderfully with pumpkin flavors, making it an ideal beverage pairing for this delightful dish.

Enjoy serving and sharing this Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting recipe—it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting is perfect for meal prep, making it a delightful treat to have on hand for breakfast or dessert throughout the week. You can easily bake a loaf in advance and enjoy it fresh whenever you crave something sweet and cozy.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the pumpkin bread to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap or foil to keep it moist.
• Store at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, place in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

• Slice the pumpkin bread before freezing for easy access.
• Wrap each slice in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer-safe bag.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
• To thaw, simply leave at room temperature or heat gently in the microwave.

Reheating

• To enjoy warm slices, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place slices on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Alternatively, use a microwave for 15-30 seconds, but be careful not to overheat.

FAQs

If you have any questions about this recipe, you’re in the right place!

Can I make this Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe without eggs?

Yes! You can substitute eggs with unsweetened applesauce (1/4 cup per egg) or flaxseed meal mixed with water (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg). This will help keep your bread moist while maintaining its delicious flavor.

How do I store Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting?

To store Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting, allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly and keep at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week. For long-term storage, consider freezing individual slices.

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

If you’re looking for alternatives to cream cheese for frosting, consider using Greek yogurt mixed with powdered sugar or dairy-free cream cheese options available at many grocery stores. Both will give you a creamy texture without compromising flavor.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add about 1 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans or 1 cup of chocolate chips into your batter before baking. This adds extra texture and flavor that complements the spices beautifully.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting recipe brings warmth and joy into your kitchen this fall! It’s such a wonderful blend of spices and sweetness that makes it truly special. Enjoy making it as much as you’ll love sharing it with friends and family. Happy baking!