Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy treat that captures the essence of fall, this Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is just what you need. The moment you take a bite, you’ll be greeted by the warm spices and rich pumpkin flavor that make this bread a true autumn delight. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something comforting or for family gatherings where everyone can indulge in its deliciousness.

What makes this recipe extra special is the creamy frosting that adds a touch of sweetness to each slice. Whether you’re serving it as a breakfast treat or a dessert, this pumpkin bread will surely bring smiles to faces around your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delightful loaf without any fuss.
• Family Favorite: The warm spices and creamy frosting make it a hit with both kids and adults alike.
• Make Ahead: This bread keeps well, so you can bake it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week.
• Versatile: Enjoy it plain, or dress it up with toppings or spreads to suit your mood.
• Seasonal Delight: Celebrate the flavors of fall with every slice!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need to bring this Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe to life:

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, allowing you to get creative based on your preferences! Here are some fun variations:

• Add Nuts: Toss in chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch and flavor boost.
• Spice it Up: Experiment with additional spices like allspice or cardamom for a unique twist.
• Chocolate Chips: Fold in some dairy-free chocolate chips for a sweet surprise in every bite.
• Pumpkin Seed Topping: Sprinkle roasted pumpkin seeds on top of the frosting for added texture and decoration.

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 beautifully.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, cardamom, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients first allows the flavors to blend well before adding wet ingredients.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the canola oil, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, eggs, pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract until smooth. This combination creates a moist base for your bread.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined; be careful not to overmix. This step is crucial as overmixing can lead to dense bread.

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. Your kitchen will fill with the most inviting aroma!

Step 6: Cool Down

Once baked, allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Letting it cool slightly helps improve its texture.

Step 7: Prepare Cream Cheese Frosting

While waiting for your bread to cool completely, beat together the cream cheese and butter until creamy. Add vanilla extract and powdered sugar gradually while mixing—this will create that luscious frosting we love!

Step 8: Frost and Serve

Once your pumpkin bread is cool, spread the cream cheese frosting generously on top. Slice and serve this delightful treat at breakfast or as an afternoon snack!

Enjoy sharing this Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe with friends and family; it’s sure to become a beloved favorite!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Baking can be a delightful adventure, and these tips will help you create the most delicious pumpkin bread that your friends and family will love.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Starting with room temperature eggs and cream cheese ensures that everything blends smoothly, creating a light and fluffy texture in your bread and frosting.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Mixing just until combined helps to keep your pumpkin bread tender. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf, so be gentle!

• Check for doneness with a toothpick: Every oven is different, so start checking your bread about 5 minutes before the recommended baking time. Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, it’s ready!

• Let it cool completely before frosting: Allowing your pumpkin bread to cool fully ensures that the cream cheese frosting doesn’t melt into the warm bread, keeping your frosting beautifully spreadable.

• Store properly for freshness: Wrap your cooled pumpkin bread in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. This keeps it moist for days! You can also freeze it for up to three months—just remember to thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving.

How to Serve Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

This pumpkin bread is not only tasty but also visually appealing! Here are some ideas on how to present this delightful dish for any occasion.

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some chopped pecans or walnuts on top of the cream cheese frosting for added crunch and flavor.
• Cinnamon sugar dusting: A light dusting of cinnamon sugar gives a sweet touch and enhances the autumnal flavor profile.
• Fresh herbs: A few sprigs of mint can add a pop of color and freshness, contrasting nicely with the rich flavors of the pumpkin bread.

Side Dishes

• Apple slices: Crisp, fresh apple slices provide a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the pumpkin bread. Their natural tartness complements the flavors beautifully.
• Yogurt parfait: A creamy yogurt parfait layered with granola and seasonal fruits makes for a lovely breakfast or brunch pairing alongside your pumpkin bread.
• Hot tea or coffee: A warm cup of spiced chai or freshly brewed coffee enhances the cozy experience. The warmth complements the spices in your pumpkin bread perfectly!
• Cheese platter: A small assortment of cheeses can balance out the sweetness. Soft cheeses like goat cheese or cream cheese work wonderfully alongside slices of pumpkin bread.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to enjoy your Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting is a fantastic recipe for meal prep! You can whip it up ahead of time, making it perfect for busy mornings or gatherings. Here’s how to store and preserve your delicious creation.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the pumpkin bread to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh.
• Store at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for about a week.

Freezing

• Slice the pumpkin bread before freezing for easy access.
• Wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat individual slices in a toaster or toaster oven until warm.
• Alternatively, you can microwave a slice for about 10-15 seconds; be careful not to overheat, as it can become dry.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe!

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

Yes! You can substitute each egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water). This will help keep your bread moist and delicious!

What makes this Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting so moist?

The combination of canned pumpkin puree and oil contributes significantly to the moisture content of the bread. Additionally, using brown sugar adds extra moisture compared to granulated sugar.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Absolutely! You can replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option. Just keep in mind that it may change the texture slightly.

How long does the cream cheese frosting last?

The cream cheese frosting can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Just remember to give it a good stir before using!

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to this recipe?

Certainly! Feel free to mix in some chopped walnuts, pecans, or even chocolate chips into the batter before baking. This will add an extra layer of flavor and texture!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting! It’s not just a treat; it’s a slice of fall that fills your home with warmth and comfort. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, dessert, or as an afternoon snack, I encourage you to share this delightful recipe with family and friends. Happy baking!