With hundreds of rave reviews, this classic pumpkin bread with streusel topping and maple glaze recipe has earned its spot as one of the best recipes ever seriously! Don’t let the simple name fool you, this loaf is packed with deep pumpkin flavor, a texture that stays moist for days, an abundance of fall spices, and a pumpkin bread topping that bakes into the most incredible crunchy-sweet layer you’ve ever experienced.
Another reason it’s become a reader favorite – it’s the ultimate comfort food that makes your entire house smell like autumn magic. I give you options for different pan sizes, and my favorite tip from a reader – this makes the perfect hostess or holiday gift that everyone actually wants to receive!
Sarah commented: “This is hands down the best recipes ever seriously for fall baking! The streusel topping is pure genius and the maple glaze takes it over the top 🧡 Already made it three times this month!” ★★★★★
This recipe all started with my obsession for creating the perfect pumpkin breads experience. I’ve been perfecting pumpkin bread for years, but it wasn’t until I added the streusel topping for pumpkin bread that everything clicked into place. So many people have tried to recreate this combination – but rest assured, this is the original triple-threat recipe! I suppose imitation is the best form of flattery…
I’ve lost track of how many times I have made this pumpkin bread with streusel. So many times I have to alternate it with other fall treats, though nothing quite compares to this combination. And it’s not just during the fall. Even in the middle of summer, I discover a can of pumpkin in my pantry and my family is right there asking, “are you making that amazing streusel pumpkin bread?!”
Cuisine: American
Category: Dessert/Breakfast
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 55-65 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Serves: 12 slices
Over the years, I have perfected every element of this recipe. However, I have tested different topping for pumpkin bread combinations and maple baking recipes glazes so everyone can enjoy this incredible bread. While it requires a few steps, I provide detailed instructions so you can see just how achievable bakery-quality results are at home!
Easy Step-By-Step Process
The magic of this pumpkin streusel combination lies in the layering of flavors and textures. First, you create the most tender, spiced pumpkin bread base. Then comes the pumpkin bread topping – a buttery streusel that creates an irresistible crunchy contrast. Finally, the maple baking recipes inspired glaze adds that perfect sweet finish that makes every bite absolutely divine.
INGREDIENTS
For the Pumpkin Bread:
- 1¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 cup pure pumpkin puree
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- ¼ cup water
- 1½ teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Streusel Topping:
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons cold butter, cubed
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons old-fashioned oats (optional)
For the Maple Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 3-4 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 2-3 tablespoons milk or heavy cream
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
PREPARATION
- Preheat and prepare your oven to 350°F and adjust the oven rack to the middle position. Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal. This creates the perfect environment for your pumpkin bread with streusel to bake evenly.
- Make the streusel topping first by combining flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt in a small bowl. Cut in cold butter using a pastry cutter or fork until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. If using oats, fold them in now. Set this topping for pumpkin bread aside while you prepare the batter.
- Combine wet ingredients in a large mixing bowl by whisking together pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, oil, eggs, water, and vanilla until smooth and well combined. The mixture should be completely uniform with no streaks.
- Sift dry ingredients by setting a mesh strainer over the bowl with wet ingredients. Add flour, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, baking soda, salt, and baking powder to the strainer and sift directly over the wet mixture. This prevents lumps and creates the perfect texture for pumpkin breads.
- Mix the batter by whisking gently until just combined and no dry streaks remain. Don’t overmix – this is crucial for tender, moist bread. The batter should be thick but pourable.
- Assemble the bread by pouring the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smoothing the top with an offset spatula. Evenly sprinkle the pumpkin streusel topping over the entire surface, gently pressing it into the batter so it adheres.
- Bake to perfection for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs. The pumpkin bread topping should be golden brown and crispy. Don’t overbake – the bread continues cooking as it cools.
- Cool completely in the pan set on a wire rack for 15 minutes, then use the parchment overhang to lift the bread out. Cool completely on the wire rack before glazing – this prevents the glaze from melting off.
- Make the maple glaze by whisking together powdered sugar, maple syrup, milk, vanilla, and salt until smooth. Start with less liquid and add more until you reach your desired consistency. The glaze should coat the back of a spoon but still drizzle easily.
- Glaze and serve by drizzling the maple baking recipes inspired glaze over the cooled bread. Let it set for 10 minutes before slicing. Cut with a sharp knife in a gentle sawing motion to preserve the beautiful streusel layer.
Recipe Success Tips
The secret to incredible pumpkin bread with streusel lies in not overmixing the batter and getting the streusel texture just right. The butter should be cold enough that you can still see small pieces after cutting it in – this creates those perfect crispy pockets that make the topping for pumpkin bread so addictive.
Don’t skip the cooling step before glazing! Hot bread will melt the glaze right off, and you’ll lose that beautiful finishing touch. Room temperature bread allows the glaze to set properly while still being absorbed slightly into the surface.
For the best pumpkin streusel results, make sure your oven temperature is accurate. An oven thermometer is your best friend for consistent baking results. Too hot and the topping burns before the bread is done; too cool and you won’t get that golden, crunchy texture.
NUTRITION INFORMATION
- 285 calories per slice
- 4g protein per slice
- 45g carbs per slice
- 10g fat per slice
- 2g fiber per slice
This classic pumpkin bread with streusel topping and maple glaze provides comfort food satisfaction while delivering some nutritional benefits from the pumpkin. It’s the perfect treat for special occasions or whenever you want to make your home smell amazing.
Ingredient Substitutions and Variations
Oil alternatives: You can substitute the vegetable oil with melted butter (cooled slightly), coconut oil, or even applesauce for a lighter version. Each will create a slightly different texture in your pumpkin breads.
Spice variations: Don’t have pumpkin pie spice? Make your own by combining 1 teaspoon cinnamon, ¼ teaspoon nutmeg, ¼ teaspoon ginger, and ⅛ teaspoon cloves. For extra warmth, add a pinch of cardamom to your pumpkin bread topping.
Glaze options: The maple baking recipes glaze can be customized with different extracts – try almond, rum, or even orange for unique flavor profiles. For a thinner glaze, add more milk; for thicker, add more powdered sugar.
Add-ins: Fold in ½ cup chocolate chips, chopped pecans, or dried cranberries to the batter for extra texture and flavor. These additions make your pumpkin streusel bread even more special.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
This classic pumpkin bread with streusel topping and maple glaze actually improves after the first day as the flavors meld together. Store covered at room temperature for up to 5 days, or wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
Make-ahead strategy: You can prepare the streusel topping up to 3 days ahead and store it in the refrigerator. The bread can also be baked without the glaze, wrapped well, and frozen. Thaw completely before adding the fresh glaze.
Freezing tips: Slice the bread before freezing for easy individual portions. Wrap slices in plastic wrap, then place in freezer bags. They thaw quickly at room temperature and taste fresh-baked when warmed in the toaster.
Different Pan Size Options
While this recipe is designed for a standard 9×5-inch loaf pan, you can adapt it for different sizes:
Mini loaf pans: Divide batter between 4 mini pans and bake for 35-40 minutes. Perfect for gift-giving!
Muffin tins: Fill 12 muffin cups ¾ full and bake for 18-22 minutes. Top each with a smaller amount of streusel.
Bundt pan: Use a 10-cup bundt pan and bake for 45-55 minutes. The glaze looks especially beautiful drizzled over the bundt shape.
Why This Has Become a Fall Tradition
After testing countless best recipes ever seriously for fall baking, this pumpkin bread with streusel has earned its permanent spot in my seasonal rotation. The combination of moist, spiced bread, crunchy topping, and sweet glaze creates the ultimate autumn comfort food experience.
What really sets this apart from other pumpkin breads is how each element complements the others. The streusel adds textural interest that regular pumpkin bread lacks, while the maple glaze provides that extra touch of sweetness that makes every bite feel special.
The fact that it makes your entire house smell incredible while baking is just a bonus. There’s something magical about the combination of pumpkin spices and butter that creates the perfect fall atmosphere.
Perfect for Gift-Giving
This classic pumpkin bread with streusel topping and maple glaze makes an exceptional hostess gift or holiday present. The beautiful appearance with the golden streusel and glossy glaze looks professionally made, while the incredible taste ensures it will be remembered and requested again.
For gift-giving, I recommend baking in mini loaf pans and wrapping each one in cellophane with a pretty ribbon. Include a card with storage instructions and maybe even the recipe – though you might want to keep this best recipes ever seriously option as your secret weapon!
The topping for pumpkin bread and maple glaze combination is so unique that recipients always ask where you bought it. There’s something deeply satisfying about revealing it’s homemade!
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Can I make this without the streusel topping?
While you certainly can, the pumpkin streusel topping is what makes this recipe truly special! It adds incredible texture contrast and visual appeal. If you must skip it, the bread will still be delicious, but you’ll be missing the signature element that makes this one of the best recipes ever seriously.
Why is my streusel sinking into the batter?
This usually happens when the batter is too thin or the streusel pieces are too small. Make sure your batter is thick enough to support the topping, and keep some larger butter pieces in your topping for pumpkin bread mixture. Gently pressing the streusel into the surface helps it adhere properly.
Can I use homemade pumpkin puree instead of canned?
Absolutely! Just make sure your homemade puree is well-drained and not too watery. Fresh pumpkin can have more moisture than canned, so you may need to adjust the liquid in your pumpkin breads recipe accordingly.
How do I know when the bread is properly done?
The bread is done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs, and the pumpkin bread topping is golden brown. The internal temperature should reach 200-205°F. Don’t worry if the toothpick isn’t completely clean – a few moist crumbs ensure the bread stays tender.
Can I double this recipe for a larger crowd?
Yes! This classic pumpkin bread with streusel topping and maple glaze doubles beautifully. Use two 9×5-inch pans or one large sheet pan. Just keep an eye on baking times as they may vary slightly with different pan sizes.
The Ultimate Fall Baking Experience
This pumpkin bread with streusel has brought me so much joy over the years – and it’s all because of readers like you who make these recipes come alive in your own kitchens! Every time someone tells me they’ve made this maple baking recipes masterpiece, my heart just fills with happiness.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting your fall baking journey, this recipe delivers results that look and taste professional. The combination of the tender pumpkin bread, crunchy streusel, and glossy maple glaze creates layers of flavor and texture that make every bite absolutely irresistible.
I hope this classic pumpkin bread with streusel topping and maple glaze becomes a treasured recipe in your collection, bringing warmth and joy to your kitchen just as it has to mine!
Share Your Baking Success!
I absolutely love seeing how this classic pumpkin bread with streusel topping and maple glaze turns out in your kitchen! Share your photos on my Facebook page – I love seeing your beautiful results and any creative variations you try.
Let me know in the comments how your pumpkin bread with streusel turned out! Tag me @OlyviaBestRecipes on Pinterest when you make this best recipes ever seriously option – your feedback and photos help other bakers feel confident about trying new pumpkin breads recipes!
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Author: Olyvia T.
