Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping

If you’re looking for a cozy recipe that fills your home with the warm scent of fall, then this Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping is just what you need! It’s not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. Perfect for those busy weeknights or family gatherings, this pumpkin bread is sure to be a hit with everyone. The moist texture combined with the sweet crumb topping makes it a delightful treat any time of year!

What I love most about this recipe is how simple it is to whip up. Just gather your ingredients and let the magic happen in the oven. Before you know it, you’ll have two loaves of golden goodness ready to share—or keep all to yourself!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With straightforward steps and minimal prep time, you can enjoy homemade pumpkin bread without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Perfect for sharing: Bake a loaf for friends or family, and watch their faces light up when they take their first bite!
• Deliciously spiced: Each slice bursts with rich pumpkin flavor and warm spices that evoke the spirit of autumn.
• Make-ahead option: This bread stays fresh for days, making it a great choice for meal prep or unexpected guests.
• Versatile serving options: Enjoy it plain, spread with butter, or paired with your favorite hot beverage.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients that are likely already in your pantry. Here’s what to gather:

For the Pumpkin Bread

• 3 1/3 cups all purpose flour
• 1 1/2 tsp salt
• 2 tsp baking soda
• 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves
• 1/4 tsp ground allspice
• 1/4 tsp ground ginger
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 cup canola oil (or vegetable oil)
• 4 large eggs
• 1 (15 oz) can pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
• 2/3 cup water
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Crumb Topping

• 1/2 cup butter, cold and cubed
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 3/4 cup all purpose flour
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon

Variations

This recipe is quite flexible, allowing you to put your own spin on it! Here are some fun variations you might enjoy:

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch.
• Mix in chocolate chips: For a sweet twist, fold in some semi-sweet chocolate chips before baking.
• Try different spices: Experiment with spices like cardamom or ginger for a unique flavor profile.
• Make mini loaves: Divide the batter into smaller pans for adorable mini loaves perfect for gifting.

How to Make Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures that your bread bakes evenly from the moment you put it in. Grease two 8×4 bread pans (I like to use parchment paper at the bottom too) so that nothing sticks!

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine all-purpose flour, salt, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, allspice, and ginger. Mixing these dry ingredients first helps distribute the leavening agents evenly throughout the batter.

Step 3: Combine Sugars

Next, add both granulated sugar and brown sugar into your dry mixture. Stir until everything is well blended. The sugars will not only add sweetness but also contribute to that lovely moist texture we’re aiming for.

Step 4: Add Oil and Eggs

Make a well in the center of your mixture and pour in the canola oil. Mix until just combined—don’t worry if it looks dry! Then add in your eggs two at a time, mixing well after each addition.

Step 5: Fold in Pumpkin Puree

Now it’s time to bring everything together! Add the pumpkin puree along with water and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is smooth and well combined; this will create that moist texture we love about pumpkin bread.

Step 6: Prepare Your Batter

Divide the batter evenly between your greased bread pans. The smell alone will have everyone racing into the kitchen!

Step 7: Make Your Crumb Topping

In a separate bowl, mix together flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon for the crumb topping. Cut in cold butter until it resembles coarse crumbs—this step is key as it creates that delicious crunchy layer on top!

Step 8: Sprinkle Topping & Bake

Sprinkle this crumb topping generously over both batters before placing them into your preheated oven. Bake for about 55-65 minutes or until a cake tester comes out clean from the center.

Step 9: Cool & Serve

Allow your loaves to cool for about 10 minutes before removing them from their pans. Place them on a wire rack to finish cooling completely. Slice up those gorgeous loaves and enjoy every last bite!

With just these easy steps, you’ll have made an incredible homemade treat that brings joy to any occasion!

Pro Tips for Making Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping

Baking is an art, and with a few simple tips, you can elevate your Easy Pumpkin Bread to a new level of deliciousness!

• Use fresh pumpkin puree: If you have access to fresh pumpkins, roasting and pureeing them will give your bread a richer flavor compared to canned varieties. Fresh puree often has a slightly different moisture content that can enhance the texture.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Mixing too much can lead to dense bread. Stir just enough to combine the ingredients and avoid toughening the loaf.

• Check for doneness correctly: In addition to using a cake tester, gently press on the top of the bread. It should spring back if fully baked. If it leaves an indentation, give it a bit more time in the oven.

• Let it cool completely before slicing: Allowing your bread to cool on a wire rack helps maintain its moisture and makes for cleaner slices. This patience pays off in presentation and taste!

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the spices based on your preference! Adding a pinch of cardamom or using pumpkin pie spice can create unique flavor profiles that surprise your guests.

How to Serve Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping

Presenting your Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping can be as delightful as baking it! Here are some creative ideas:

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of sweetness and elegance.
• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some toasted walnuts or pecans on top for added crunch and flavor contrast.
• Cream cheese spread: Offer a side of whipped cream cheese for spreading, enhancing the rich pumpkin flavors.

Side Dishes

• Honey butter: This sweet and creamy spread pairs wonderfully with pumpkin bread, enhancing its natural sweetness.
• Fresh fruit salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the richness of the bread.
• Yogurt parfaits: Layer yogurt, granola, and berries in small cups for a delightful and healthy pairing that complements the bread perfectly.
• Warm cider: Serve alongside warm apple cider for an inviting autumn experience that will warm both hearts and homes.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping will not only taste fantastic but also look stunning on any table. Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and store it for later enjoyment. Here’s how to keep your delicious bread fresh and tasty.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the pumpkin bread to cool completely.
• Wrap each loaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

• Ensure the bread is completely cooled before freezing.
• Wrap each loaf in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Label with the date so you can enjoy it before it’s too long!

Reheating

• To reheat, remove the bread from the freezer and let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Unwrap the bread and place it on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this recipe!

Can I make this Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping without eggs?

Yes! You can substitute eggs using unsweetened applesauce, flaxseed meal mixed with water, or yogurt. Each will add moisture and help bind the ingredients.

How long does this Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping stay fresh?

When stored properly, this delicious bread will last at room temperature for about 3 days or a week in the refrigerator. For longer storage, consider freezing it.

What spices are best for pumpkin bread?

The combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, allspice, and ginger gives this Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping its warm autumn flavor. Feel free to adjust spices according to your taste!

Can I use other types of flour?

Absolutely! You can try whole wheat flour or a gluten-free flour blend if you prefer. Just note that different flours may alter the texture slightly.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping as much as I do! It’s not just a treat; it’s a warm hug on a plate that brings back fond fall memories. Whether you’re sharing with loved ones or savoring a slice all by yourself, there’s something special about this recipe. Happy baking, and I can’t wait for you to experience all the cozy flavors in every bite!