When the leaves start to fall and the air gets crisp, few things feel cozier than the warm, spiced aroma of pumpkin bread baking in your kitchen. Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting is the perfect dessert to capture the essence of autumn. This moist, flavorful bread topped with tangy, creamy frosting is easy to make and perfect for any occasion—whether you’re hosting a gathering, preparing a special treat for your family, or indulging in some solo baking therapy.

Why You’ll Love Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting

Pumpkin bread is a classic autumn dessert, loved for its warm spices, tender crumb, and versatility. The addition of cream cheese frosting elevates this treat, adding a creamy sweetness that perfectly balances the spiced bread. It’s simple enough for a casual snack yet impressive enough for special occasions.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Pumpkin Bread:

Ingredient	Purpose	Quantity
All-purpose flour	Provides structure	2 cups
Baking soda	For leavening, helps the bread rise	1 tsp
Ground cinnamon	Adds warm spice flavor	2 tsp
Ground ginger	For a subtle spicy kick	1 tsp
Ground nutmeg	Adds aromatic spice	½ tsp
Salt	Balances the sweetness	½ tsp
Canola oil	For moisture and a tender crumb	½ cup
Granulated sugar	Adds sweetness	¾ cup
Light brown sugar	Adds moisture and a slight molasses flavor	½ cup
Large eggs	For binding and structure	2
Canned pumpkin puree	Adds moisture and a rich pumpkin flavor	1 ¼ cup
Vanilla extract	Adds flavor	2 tsp

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

Ingredient	Purpose	Quantity
Cream cheese (softened)	Adds a tangy, creamy topping	4 oz
Unsalted butter (softened)	Adds richness	4 tbsp
Vanilla extract	For flavor	1 tsp
Powdered sugar	Sweetens and thickens the frosting	1 cup
Milk	Adjusts the frosting’s consistency	1-3 tsp

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper, allowing the edges to overhang for easy removal.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and salt.
2. Whisk until well blended and set aside.

3. Combine the Wet Ingredients

1. In another bowl, whisk together the canola oil, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar until smooth.
2. Add the pumpkin puree, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until fully incorporated.

4. Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients

1. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to ensure a tender crumb.
2. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.

5. Bake the Pumpkin Bread

1. Bake for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
2. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

6. Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

1. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until creamy.
2. Add the vanilla extract and powdered sugar. Mix until smooth and fluffy.
3. If the frosting is too thick, add milk one teaspoon at a time until the desired consistency is reached.

7. Frost the Pumpkin Bread

1. Once the bread is completely cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.
2. Slice and serve immediately or store in the refrigerator for a chilled treat.

Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Bread

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This ensures smooth mixing and better texture.
• Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter can lead to dense bread.
• Chill the Frosting: If your frosting becomes too soft, refrigerate it for 15 minutes before spreading.
• Store Properly: Keep leftover bread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Nutritional Information (Per Slice)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	280
Total Fat	12g
Saturated Fat	4g
Cholesterol	35mg
Sodium	200mg
Total Carbohydrates	40g
Sugars	25g
Protein	3g

FAQs About Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting

1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! Pumpkin bread can be made a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and frost just before serving for the best texture.

2. Can I freeze pumpkin bread?

Absolutely. Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before frosting and serving.

3. Can I use homemade pumpkin puree?

Yes, homemade pumpkin puree works well. Just ensure it’s thick and not watery to maintain the right consistency.

4. How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking mix. Ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

5. Can I add mix-ins to the batter?

Definitely! Chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or dried cranberries make great additions.

6. Can I skip the frosting?

Yes, the bread is delicious on its own. Alternatively, you can dust it with powdered sugar for a lighter topping.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with Coffee or Tea: A slice of pumpkin bread goes perfectly with your favorite warm beverage.
• Decorate for the Holidays: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg on top of the frosting for a festive touch.
• Serve as Dessert: Dress it up with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

Conclusion: A Fall Treat Worth Baking

Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of fall flavors. The warm spices, tender crumb, and creamy frosting make it a treat that everyone will love. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just to enjoy a cozy afternoon, this pumpkin bread is sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to bake this delightful fall favorite!

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