Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Introduction

There’s something truly magical about the aroma of Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting wafting through the kitchen on a crisp autumn day. This delightful treat combines the warm, spiced flavors of pumpkin with a rich, tangy frosting that elevates it to a whole new level of indulgence. Whether you’re baking for a cozy family gathering or simply craving a seasonal sweet, this recipe is guaranteed to become a fall favorite.

The beauty of a Pumpkin Loaf lies in its versatility. It can be a comforting breakfast, a satisfying snack, or even a decadent dessert. With the addition of a luscious Cheese Frosting, this bread transforms into something extraordinary, striking the perfect balance between spiced warmth and creamy sweetness. Let’s dive into how you can create this irresistible baked good right at home.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through every step of crafting the ultimate Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bread, from gathering your ingredients to spreading that perfect layer of frosting. Plus, we’ll explore some expert tips and answer common questions to ensure your baking experience is as smooth as the frosting itself. Get ready to impress with every slice!

Recipe Overview

Cuisine: American
Category: Dessert / Breakfast
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 10 slices

What You’ll Need

Creating a perfect Pumpkin Bread Recipe requires a thoughtful combination of ingredients, each playing a vital role in the final result. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need and why each component matters:

• Pumpkin Puree: The star of the show, providing moisture and that signature fall flavor.
• Flour: Forms the structure of the bread, giving it a tender yet firm texture.
• Spices: A blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves to bring out the warm, cozy notes of pumpkin.
• Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with browning and caramelization during baking.
• Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and contribute to the bread’s soft crumb.
• Cream Cheese: The base of the frosting, offering a tangy contrast to the sweet bread.
• Powdered Sugar: Sweetens and smooths out the Cheese Frosting for a velvety finish.

INGREDIENTS

For the Pumpkin Bread:

• – 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• – 1 teaspoon baking soda (or a suitable Baking Soda Substitute if needed)
• – 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• – 1/2 teaspoon salt
• – 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• – 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• – 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• – 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• – 2 large eggs
• – 1 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
• – 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• – 1/4 cup water
• – 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• – 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• – 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• – 2 cups powdered sugar
• – 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

PREPARATION

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and lightly flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Set this dry mixture aside.
3. In a large bowl, beat the sugar and eggs until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes. Add the pumpkin puree, oil, water, and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined.
4. Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing just until no streaks of flour remain. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
7. For the frosting, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth, about 2 minutes. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until creamy and spreadable.
8. Once the bread is completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. Slice and serve!

NUTRITION INFORMATION

• Calories: 320 per slice
• Total Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Sugar: 30g
• Protein: 4g
• Sodium: 220mg

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and based on one slice with frosting.

Choosing the Right Pumpkin Puree

When making Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting, always opt for pure pumpkin puree rather than pumpkin pie filling. The latter contains added sugars and spices that can throw off the balance of your recipe. Look for canned pumpkin labeled as “100% pure” or make your own by roasting and blending a Cheese Pumpkin variety for a fresher taste.

Experimenting with Spices

The spice blend in this Pumpkin Loaf is key to its cozy flavor. While cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves are classic, feel free to add a pinch of ginger or allspice for a unique twist. Adjust the amounts to suit your palate, but keep the total spice quantity around 2 teaspoons to avoid overpowering the pumpkin.

Alternative Frosting Ideas

While Cheese Frosting is a crowd-pleaser, you can switch things up with a maple glaze or a dusting of powdered sugar for a lighter finish. For a decadent touch, fold in some crushed pecans or walnuts into the frosting to complement the fall flavors of the bread.

Storing and Freezing Tips

This Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bread stays fresh for up to 3 days at room temperature if unfrosted. Once frosted, store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To freeze, wrap the unfrosted loaf tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil; it will keep for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before adding the frosting.

Baking Soda Substitutes

If you’re out of baking soda, don’t worry! A Baking Soda Substitute like baking powder can work in a pinch. Use 3 teaspoons of baking powder for every 1 teaspoon of baking soda, but note that this may slightly alter the texture of your bread, making it a bit lighter.

Pairing with Other Fall Recipes

This bread pairs beautifully with other seasonal treats like Cherry Clafoutis or other Clafoutis Recipes for a delightful dessert spread. Serve alongside a warm cup of cider or coffee to complete the autumn experience. If you’re exploring more baking ideas, check out some Yeast Bread Recipes for savory contrasts.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I make this bread without the frosting?

Absolutely! The Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting is delicious on its own as a lightly spiced, moist loaf. Skipping the frosting also makes it a bit lighter in calories, perfect for a quick breakfast or snack. If you still want a touch of sweetness, a dusting of powdered sugar works well.

How do I prevent my bread from becoming too dense?

To keep your Pumpkin Loaf light and fluffy, avoid overmixing the batter once the wet and dry ingredients are combined. Mix just until there are no visible streaks of flour. Also, ensure your baking soda or Baking Soda Substitute is fresh, as outdated leavening agents can result in a denser texture.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes, fresh pumpkin can be used in this Pumpkin Bread Recipe. Roast a small Cheese Pumpkin, scoop out the flesh, and puree it until smooth. You may need to strain excess liquid to match the consistency of canned puree, as fresh pumpkin can be more watery.

How do I know when the bread is fully baked?

The best way to test if your Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bread is done is by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, the bread is ready. Baking times can vary, so start checking around the 55-minute mark.