Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting is like a warm hug on a chilly day. Imagine diving into a loaf that’s soft, spiced just right, and topped with a dreamy cream cheese frosting that melts in your mouth. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will have you convinced you’ve just stepped into a cozy autumn café.
As you slice into this delightful bread, the vibrant orange hue and the luscious frosting make it look as good as it tastes. Whether you’re preparing for a festive gathering or simply treating yourself after a long week, this recipe is bound to become your new favorite comfort food.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting is incredibly easy to whip up, perfect for both novice and seasoned bakers.
- Its warm spices and creamy topping create a flavor explosion that dances on your taste buds.
- With its golden color and smooth frosting, it’s sure to impress anyone who lays eyes on it.
- Enjoy it as breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack; the versatility makes it a must-try!
Ingredients for Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
All-Purpose Flour: Use unbleached flour for better texture; it helps the bread rise beautifully.
Canned Pumpkin Puree: Opt for pure pumpkin, not pie filling; it’s packed with flavor.
Granulated Sugar: Sweeten your pumpkin bread to perfection; adjust according to your liking.
Brown Sugar: Adds depth and moisture; light or dark works fine depending on preference.
Baking Soda: This is your leavening agent; ensure it’s fresh for optimal rising.
Ground Cinnamon: Nothing says autumn like cinnamon; use fresh ground for maximum flavor.
Nutmeg: A pinch will elevate the spice profile; fresh nutmeg is recommended if available.
Eggs: These provide structure; use large eggs for best results.
Vegetable Oil: For moistness and richness; can substitute with melted butter if preferred.
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
Cream Cheese: Use full-fat cream cheese for the best creamy consistency in your frosting.
Powdered Sugar: This sweetens and thickens the frosting; sift before measuring to avoid lumps.
Vanilla Extract: Adds flavor; pure vanilla extract works wonders here.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan generously so your pumpkin bread doesn’t stick like that one friend who never leaves the party.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Picture yourself creating an aromatic spice blend worthy of being bottled up and sold at high prices in chic stores.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, mix canned pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vegetable oil until smooth. It should look like sunshine in a bowl—bright and inviting!
Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients while stirring gently. You want everything nicely blended but don’t overdo it—nobody likes tough bread!
Step 5: Pour Into Loaf Pan
Pour the batter into your greased loaf pan. Give it a gentle shake to level everything out—like setting up before a big game.
Step 6: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for about 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Your kitchen will smell heavenly during this time—prepare for compliments from anyone nearby!
Once baked, remove from oven and let cool completely before frosting.
For the cream cheese frosting: In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat until fluffy like clouds on a sunny day! Once cooled down enough so you won’t scorch yourself (or anyone else), spread this fluffy goodness over your pumpkin bread.
Transfer slices onto plates and serve them with coffee or tea—enjoy every bite of this comforting treat!
You Must Know
- This delightful pumpkin bread with cream cheese frosting is not just a treat for your taste buds; it’s also a cozy hug in food form.
- Perfect for autumn gatherings, it will have everyone asking for seconds (and the recipe).
- Enjoy the warm spices and creamy goodness!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
First, preheat your oven to 350°F, then mix your dry ingredients. While they mingle, cream together butter and sugar until fluffy. Add eggs and pumpkin puree, then fold in dry ingredients. Pour into a loaf pan and bake until golden brown.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to add nuts or chocolate chips for extra texture! You can swap out the pumpkin for sweet potato or even banana if you’re feeling adventurous. Spice lovers might also want to throw in some nutmeg or ginger for a kick.
Storing & Reheating
Store your pumpkin bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. If you want to keep it longer, freeze slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap. To reheat, pop it in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh pumpkin puree for a richer flavor that will wow your friends and family.
- Don’t overmix the batter; a few lumps are okay!
- Lastly, let your bread cool completely before frosting to prevent melting.
Sharing my first experience baking pumpkin bread is quite amusing. My kitchen was filled with flour clouds as I tried to open a bag while juggling pumpkin puree. The result? A messy but delicious surprise that turned into our family favorite!
FAQs:
What ingredients are needed for Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting?
To make delicious Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting, you will need essential ingredients like pumpkin puree, flour, sugar, eggs, baking soda, cinnamon, and nutmeg for the bread. For the cream cheese frosting, gather cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. These ingredients blend together to create a moist and flavorful bread topped with a rich frosting that complements the pumpkin flavor perfectly.
How do I store leftover Pumpkin Bread?
Storing leftover Pumpkin Bread is simple. Allow it to cool completely after baking. Then wrap it in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in an airtight container. You can keep it at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate it for about a week. If you want to enjoy it later, consider freezing slices. Wrap them individually and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months.
Can I make Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting ahead of time. Bake the bread a day or two in advance and store it wrapped at room temperature. For the frosting, make it the day you plan to serve or refrigerate it for up to five days. When ready to serve, spread the cream cheese frosting on top of the bread. This helps enhance the flavors as they meld together over time.
Is there a way to make this recipe healthier?
Yes! You can modify the Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting recipe to make it healthier. Consider using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for added fiber. You can also reduce sugar by substituting some of it with applesauce or mashed bananas. For a lighter frosting option, use Greek yogurt mixed with cream cheese to achieve a similar taste while cutting down on calories.
Conclusion for Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting:
In summary, making Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting is an enjoyable experience that results in a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. By gathering essential ingredients and following simple steps, you create a moist pumpkin bread topped with rich cream cheese frosting. Whether you choose to serve it fresh or store leftovers for later enjoyment, this recipe delivers comfort and flavor that everyone will love. Enjoy sharing this seasonal favorite with family and friends!
Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting
Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful autumn treat that combines moist, spiced pumpkin bread with a rich, creamy frosting. This comforting loaf fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas and is perfect for gatherings or a cozy indulgence at home. Its vibrant orange color and luscious frosting make it not only delicious but also visually appealing, ensuring that it will become a seasonal favorite for all.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 10 slices 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- For the Cream Cheese Frosting: 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- In another bowl, mix pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vegetable oil until smooth.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients while stirring gently until combined.
- Pour the batter into the greased loaf pan and level it out.
- Bake for about 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let cool completely before frosting with cream cheese mixture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (70g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
Keywords: For added texture and flavor, consider incorporating nuts or chocolate chips into the batter. To make it healthier, substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour or reduce sugar by using applesauce.