Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting

If you’re craving a cozy, comforting treat that feels like autumn wrapped up in a slice, look no further than this easy Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting. This recipe combines tender, moist pumpkin bread with a silky, tangy cream cheese frosting that elevates every bite. Whether you’re baking for a holiday gathering or just a sweet snack for yourself, this pumpkin bread with cream cheese frosting is a delightful way to celebrate pumpkin season all year long.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples and fresh pumpkin for an easy, fuss-free baking experience.
• Moist and Flavorful: The perfect balance of warm spices and pumpkin keeps the bread soft and full of taste.
• Versatile Enjoyment: Great for breakfast, dessert, or a cozy afternoon snack with a cup of tea or coffee.
• Delicious Cream Cheese Frosting: Adds a creamy, tangy layer that pairs perfectly with the spiced pumpkin flavor.
• Perfect for Gifting: Makes an inviting, homemade gift for friends and family during the holidays.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting recipe is carefully selected to create a rich texture, bold flavor, and stunning color. The mix of spices brings warmth while the cream cheese frosting adds that irresistible creamy finish.

• Pure Pumpkin Puree: Essential for moistness and that iconic pumpkin taste.
• All-Purpose Flour: Provides the structure needed for a tender crumb.
• Sugar & Brown Sugar: Together they add sweetness and deepen the flavor with a hint of molasses.
• Spices (Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Cloves): Classic fall spices that give the bread its cozy aroma.
• Baking Soda and Baking Powder: Help the bread rise to fluffy perfection.
• Eggs: Bind ingredients and add richness.
• Vegetable Oil: Keeps the bread moist without overpowering flavors.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances sweetness and rounds out the spice notes.
• Cream Cheese: The star ingredient in the frosting, providing creaminess and tang.
• Butter: Adds silky richness to the frosting texture.
• Powdered Sugar: Sweetens the frosting while keeping it smooth and spreadable.

Variations for Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting

Feel free to make this pumpkin bread uniquely yours! It’s easy to customize this recipe by swapping ingredients or adding extras based on your dietary needs or flavor preferences.

• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for a naturally tender bread.
• Nutty Twist: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch and extra flavor.
• Spiced Up: Mix in a pinch of ground ginger or allspice for a more intense spice profile.
• Vegan Version: Substitute eggs with flax eggs and use vegan cream cheese and butter alternatives.
• Chocolate Chip Delight: Fold in dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips for a richer treat.

How to Make Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to ensure your pumpkin bread releases easily after baking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves until thoroughly combined. This ensures the spices and leavening agents are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, beat the eggs lightly, then add the pumpkin puree, sugars, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and homogenous for that perfect base.

Step 4: Blend Wet and Dry Ingredients

Slowly add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Overmixing can make the bread dense, so keep it light and fluffy.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 55 to 65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Avoid opening the oven door too often to keep the bread rising evenly.

Step 6: Cool Completely

Let the pumpkin bread cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool fully. This prevents the frosting from melting when applied.

Step 7: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting

In a bowl, beat softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and mix well. Add a dash of vanilla extract for extra flavor. Spread generously over the cooled pumpkin bread.

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Using room temperature eggs, butter, and cream cheese helps achieve a smooth batter and frosting.
• Don’t Overmix: Gently fold the wet and dry ingredients to keep your bread light and tender.
• Check Doneness Early: Start checking the bread 5 minutes before the minimum baking time to avoid overbaking.
• Cool Completely Before Frosting: Apply the cream cheese frosting only once the bread is fully cooled to prevent it from melting.
• Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground spices give your pumpkin bread a far more vibrant flavor.

How to Serve Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting

Garnishes

Top slices with a sprinkle of toasted pumpkin seeds, a dusting of cinnamon, or a drizzle of honey for added texture and flavor layers that complement the creamy frosting beautifully.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside a hot cup of coffee, chai tea, or spiced apple cider for a perfect morning pick-me-up or a cozy afternoon indulgence.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut the pumpkin bread into smaller squares and arrange on a platter for parties, or layer it with whipped cream and fresh berries for a unique trifle-style dessert.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover pumpkin bread wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate to extend freshness up to a week.

Freezing

You can freeze the pumpkin bread either frosted or unfrosted. Wrap it well in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating

Warm slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds to revive that fresh-baked feel, or toast for a crisp edge that pairs perfectly with the creamy frosting.

FAQs

Can I use canned pumpkin for this recipe?

Absolutely, canned pumpkin puree works wonderfully and keeps the recipe simple and accessible year-round.

Is it necessary to frost the pumpkin bread?

While the bread is delicious on its own, the cream cheese frosting adds a delightful tang and richness that makes it extra special.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, substitute the cream cheese and butter with your favorite dairy-free alternatives, and use a flax egg to keep it vegan-friendly.

How long does this pumpkin bread last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, the bread stays fresh for up to a week in the refrigerator.

What’s the secret to moist pumpkin bread?

Using the right balance of pumpkin puree, oil, and not overbaking is the key to moist, tender pumpkin bread every time.

Final Thoughts

This easy Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting is more than just a recipe; it’s a warm hug in dessert form. Perfectly moist, generously spiced, and topped with silky frosting, it’s an unbeatable way to bring a bit of autumn joy to your table any day of the year. Grab your ingredients, preheat that oven, and treat yourself to a slice of homemade happiness!

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