Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting

If you’re looking for a cozy treat that captures the essence of fall, you’ve come to the right place! This Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting is not just any pumpkin bread; it’s wonderfully moist and bursting with warm cinnamon flavors. The generous layer of cream cheese frosting adds a delightful sweetness that makes each bite feel like a hug from the inside. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this recipe is perfect for any occasion.

I love making this pumpkin bread when the leaves start to change color. It fills my kitchen with the most inviting aroma and brings everyone together. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, making it a go-to in my baking repertoire!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, even beginner bakers can enjoy success.
• Family favorite: This dessert appeals to both kids and adults alike, making it perfect for sharing.
• Make-ahead friendly: Bake it in advance and simply frost before serving for effortless entertaining.
• Deliciously spiced: The combination of cinnamon and pumpkin pie spice creates a warm flavor that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile snack: Enjoy it at breakfast, as an afternoon treat, or even as dessert after dinner.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather the ingredients! This recipe uses simple, wholesome components you’ll likely have on hand. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Pumpkin Bread

• 1/2 cup All-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup Brown sugar (packed light or dark)
• 1 tsp Pumpkin pie spice
• 1/4 cup Unsalted butter (melted)
• 2 cups All-purpose flour
• 1 tsp Baking soda
• 3 tsp Ground cinnamon
• 2 tsp Pumpkin pie spice
• 1 tsp Salt
• 1/2 cup Unsalted butter (melted and cooled)
• 3/4 cup White granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup Brown sugar (packed light or dark)
• 1 can Pumpkin puree (15oz can)
• 1 tsp Pure vanilla extract
• 2 Large eggs (room temperature)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

• 2 oz Cream cheese (room temperature)
• 2 TBSP Unsalted butter (room temperature)
• 1 tsp Pure vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup Powdered sugar (sifted)
• 1/4 cup Milk

Variations

One of the best things about this pumpkin bread is how versatile it is. Feel free to get creative with these fun variations:

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
• Mix in chocolate chips: For a sweet twist, fold in semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips.
• Go gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free blend.
• Spice it up: Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or ginger for added warmth.

How to Make Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures that your pumpkin bread bakes evenly, giving you that lovely rise we all crave!

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Pan

Grease a loaf pan with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper. This will prevent your delicious bread from sticking and make for easy removal once it’s baked.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together both types of flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. Mixing dry ingredients first helps distribute the leavening agent evenly throughout your batter.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together melted butter, white granulated sugar, brown sugar, pumpkin puree, vanilla extract, and eggs until well combined. This creates a rich base full of flavor.

Step 5: Mix It All Together

Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined; be careful not to overmix! Overmixing can lead to dense bread instead of that light and fluffy texture we desire.

Step 6: Bake Your Bread

Pour your batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth out the top. Bake for about 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be heavenly!

Step 7: Make Your Cream Cheese Frosting

While your bread cools down, prepare the frosting by mixing room temperature cream cheese and unsalted butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar and milk gradually until you achieve your desired consistency.

Step 8: Frost and Enjoy!

Once your pumpkin bread has cooled completely, spread on that luscious cream cheese frosting generously. Cut into slices and serve! Enjoy every bite of this comforting treat – it’s sure to become a favorite!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting

Baking can be a joy, especially when you have a few tricks up your sleeve to ensure your pumpkin bread turns out perfectly every time!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing your eggs and cream cheese to room temperature helps them blend more smoothly into the batter, resulting in a lighter and fluffier texture.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Mixing just until combined prevents gluten development, which can lead to dense bread. A few lumps are okay!
• Check for doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center of the bread; it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs. This ensures your bread is moist without being undercooked.
• Let it cool completely: Allowing the bread to cool before adding frosting helps prevent it from melting and ensures a beautiful presentation.
• Store properly: Keep your pumpkin bread wrapped tightly at room temperature or in the fridge for longer freshness. It also allows the flavors to meld even more!

How to Serve Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting

Serving this delightful pumpkin bread is as fun as making it! Here are some creative ways to present this delicious treat that will surely impress family and friends.

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some chopped walnuts or pecans on top of the cream cheese frosting for added crunch and flavor.
• Cinnamon dust: A light dusting of cinnamon over the frosting adds an appealing look and enhances that warm, cozy taste of fall.

Side Dishes

• Hot coffee or tea: A warm mug of coffee or spiced chai complements the sweetness of the pumpkin bread beautifully, creating a comforting afternoon treat.
• Fresh fruit salad: A light and refreshing side of seasonal fruits like apples, pears, or berries balances out the richness of the bread.
• Yogurt parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruits for a nutritious side that adds texture and creaminess, making it perfect for breakfast!
• Ice cream scoop: For dessert lovers, serve slices warm with a scoop of vanilla or almond milk ice cream on top for an indulgent twist.

Enjoy serving this pumpkin bread with cream cheese frosting at your next gathering or cozy morning at home!

Make Ahead and Storage

This pumpkin bread with cream cheese frosting is perfect for meal prep, making it an ideal treat to whip up ahead of time. Whether you’re planning a cozy breakfast or a sweet dessert, this recipe can be stored and enjoyed later without sacrificing flavor or texture.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Slice the pumpkin bread into individual servings for easy thawing.
• Wrap each slice in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
• When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or microwave for quick defrosting.

Reheating

• To reheat slices, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the slices on a baking sheet and warm for about 10-15 minutes.
• Alternatively, microwave a slice for about 15-20 seconds until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making pumpkin bread with cream cheese frosting!

Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree for the Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting?

It’s best to use pure pumpkin puree rather than pumpkin pie filling. The filling contains added sugars and spices that can alter the flavor and texture of your bread. Stick with plain pumpkin puree for the best results!

How long does Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting stay fresh?

When stored properly, this pumpkin bread can last up to 3 days at room temperature or up to a week in the fridge. If you freeze it, you can enjoy it for up to 3 months while maintaining its delicious taste!

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure that your other ingredients are also gluten-free to maintain the integrity of this delightful recipe.

What can I use instead of eggs in the Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting?

If you’re looking for an egg substitute, consider using flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) or unsweetened applesauce (1/4 cup per egg). These alternatives will help keep your bread moist.

Final Thoughts

This pumpkin bread with cream cheese frosting is not just a recipe; it’s an experience filled with warm flavors and cozy vibes! It’s perfect for sharing with family and friends during gatherings or simply enjoying during quiet moments at home. I hope you find joy in making this delicious treat as much as I do. Happy baking, and don’t forget to savor every bite!