Embrace the cozy flavors of autumn with our Ultimate Pumpkin Bread, topped with a rich and creamy cheese frosting. This recipe brings the quintessential fall experience right to your kitchen, combining the warm spices of pumpkin pie with the comforting texture of homemade bread.
Why You'll Love This: This pumpkin bread is the epitome of autumnal comfort food. The bread itself is moist, fluffy, and infused with the deep flavors of pumpkin and warm spices. The cream cheese frosting adds a delightful creamy contrast, making each bite a harmonious blend of spice and sweetness. Whether you're a pumpkin spice aficionado or just looking for a delicious seasonal treat, this recipe is sure to impress.
Perfect Occasion: This bread is perfect for a cozy fall gathering, a special Thanksgiving treat, or as a delightful weekend baking project. It's also a great choice for a homemade gift to share the joy of the season with friends and family.
For the Bread:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2/3 cup melted butter
- 2 eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
For the Frosting:
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 4 tablespoons butter, softened
- 4 tablespoons milk (your choice)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 to 4 cups powdered sugar (adjust to desired consistency and taste)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan for bread or line an 8x8 inch pan with parchment paper for bars.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, and sugar.
- In another bowl, whisk the melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and pumpkin puree until smooth.
- Gradually mix the wet ingredients into the dry, stirring just until combined. Avoid overmixing to ensure a tender crumb.
- Pour the batter into your prepared pan (loaf or 8x8 inch).
- For bread: Bake for 55-60 minutes. For bars: Bake for 20-25 minutes. Check for doneness with a toothpick.
- Let the bread or bars cool completely before frosting.
For the Frosting:
- Beat together cream cheese and butter until smooth.
- Add milk and vanilla extract, mixing well.
- Gradually add powdered sugar, starting with 2 cups and adding more until you achieve your desired consistency and taste.
- Spread the frosting over the cooled bread or bars.
Slice and serve this Ultimate Pumpkin Bread as a special treat that captures the essence of fall in every bite!