Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

This Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is a delightful treat that embodies the flavors of fall. With its moist texture and warm spices, this pumpkin bread is perfect for breakfast, dessert, or any gathering. The addition of a creamy and tangy cream cheese frosting elevates it to a new level of deliciousness, making it an irresistible choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and warm spices creates a comforting taste that everyone will love.
• Easy to Make: This recipe requires simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a breakfast treat, an afternoon snack, or a dessert at gatherings.
• Perfectly Moist: This bread stays moist and tender thanks to the pumpkin puree and oils used in the recipe.
• Customizable Frosting: You can adjust the sweetness or flavor of the cream cheese frosting to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking, it’s essential to have the right tools on hand. Having everything prepared will make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Electric mixer or whisk
• Loaf pan (9×5 inch)
• Rubber spatula
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: These allow you to mix your ingredients thoroughly without making a mess.
• Electric mixer or whisk: A mixer helps achieve fluffy frosting quickly, but a whisk will work if you prefer a workout!
• Loaf pan: The right size ensures even baking and helps maintain the shape of your pumpkin bread.
• Cooling rack: This keeps your bread from becoming soggy by allowing air circulation while it cools.

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Ingredients

This Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting is filled with flavor and perfect for any occasion.

For the Pumpkin Bread

• 2 cups (240 g) all purpose flour
• 1 tsp (6 g) baking soda
• 2 tsp (6 g) ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• ½ tsp ground nutmeg
• ½ tsp ground cloves
• ¼ tsp ground cardamom
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ cup (118 ml) canola oil
• ¾ cup (150 g) granulated sugar
• ½ cup (100 g) light brown sugar
• 2 large eggs (US), room temperature
• 1¼ cup (325 g) canned pumpkin puree
• 2 tsp (10 ml) vanilla extract

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

• 4 oz. (113 g) cream cheese, room temperature
• 4 tbsp (57 g) unsalted butter, room temperature
• 1 tsp (5 ml) vanilla extract
• 1 cup (125 g) powdered sugar
• 1-3 tsp (5-15 ml) milk, as needed

How to Make Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your 9×5 inch loaf pan lightly.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl:
1. Combine the flour, baking soda, spices, and salt.
2. Whisk together until well mixed.

Step 3: Prepare Wet Ingredients

In another bowl:
1. Blend together canola oil, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, and eggs until smooth.
2. Stir in canned pumpkin puree and vanilla extract until fully combined.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture:
1. Fold gently using a rubber spatula until just combined; do not overmix.
2. Pour batter into the prepared loaf pan.

Step 5: Bake the Bread

Place in the preheated oven:
1. Bake for about 55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
2. Allow it to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a cooling rack.

Step 6: Make Cream Cheese Frosting

While the bread cools:
1. In a bowl, mix cream cheese and butter until creamy.
2. Add vanilla extract and powdered sugar gradually; mix until smooth.
3. If needed, stir in milk one teaspoon at a time until desired consistency is reached.

Step 7: Frost Your Bread

Once completely cooled:
1. Spread cream cheese frosting generously over the top of your pumpkin bread.
2. Slice and serve!

Enjoy this delightful Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting at your next gathering or simply as an everyday treat!

How to Serve Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Pumpkin bread with cream cheese frosting is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack, this recipe is versatile and delicious.

Pair with Coffee

• A warm slice of pumpkin bread pairs perfectly with your favorite coffee. The rich flavors enhance the spices in the bread.

Enjoy with Tea

• A cup of herbal or chai tea complements the sweetness of the cream cheese frosting, making for a cozy afternoon break.

Serve as a Dessert

• This pumpkin bread can stand alone as a dessert. Consider garnishing it with nuts or chocolate shavings for extra flair.

Share at Gatherings

• Slice and serve at family gatherings or potlucks. The moist texture and creamy frosting are sure to impress guests.

Top with Fresh Fruits

• Add slices of fresh fruit, like apples or pears, on the side for a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

To achieve the best pumpkin bread with cream cheese frosting, consider these helpful tips:

• Use room temperature ingredients: Allow eggs, cream cheese, and butter to reach room temperature for easier mixing and better texture.
• Measure flour correctly: Spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off. This prevents dense bread caused by too much flour.
• Don’t overmix: Mix just until combined to keep the bread light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to tough bread.
• Check for doneness: Insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean when fully baked.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Serving pumpkin bread alongside other dishes can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great side dish ideas:

1. Yogurt Parfait
   Layer yogurt with granola and seasonal fruits for a balanced breakfast option.
2. Spiced Nuts
   Roasted spiced nuts add crunch and flavor that pairs well with the softness of pumpkin bread.
3. Apple Slices with Peanut Butter
   Crisp apple slices spread with creamy peanut butter make a nutritious side that balances sweetness.
4. Cinnamon Sugar Tortilla Chips
   Serve crispy cinnamon-sugar dusted tortilla chips for a sweet contrast that’s fun to eat.
5. Cheese Platter
   A selection of mild cheeses can provide a savory counterpoint to the sweet loaf.
6. Vegetable Sticks with Hummus
   Fresh veggies dipped in hummus offer a healthy crunch paired beautifully alongside sweet treats.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When baking Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the final product. Here are some common pitfalls to watch for.

• Bold measuring ingredients: Not measuring your flour accurately can lead to a dense bread. Use the spoon and level method for precise measurement.
• Bold skipping room temperature ingredients: Using cold eggs or cream cheese can impact the texture of your frosting. Let them sit out for about 30 minutes before using.
• Bold overmixing batter: Overmixing can create a tough texture. Mix until just combined to ensure a moist loaf.
• Bold not checking doneness: Relying solely on baking time can be misleading. Use a toothpick inserted into the center; it should come out clean when done.
• Bold forgetting the frosting: The cream cheese frosting is essential for flavor. Don’t skip it—prepare it while the bread cools!

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Keep the cream cheese frosting separate if possible to maintain freshness.

Freezing Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil for optimal protection.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Warm slices on a baking sheet for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices for about 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, cover, and heat slices for about 3-5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding the Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin puree. Just ensure it’s well-cooked and blended until smooth.

How do I make my Pumpkin Bread more flavorful?

Consider adding nuts or chocolate chips for extra texture and flavor. You can also increase spices like cinnamon or ginger.

Can I make this Pumpkin Bread without eggs?

For an egg-free version, use flaxseed meal mixed with water or unsweetened applesauce as substitutes.

What is the best way to store leftover icing?

Store leftover cream cheese frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Final Thoughts

This Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting recipe is a delightful treat that captures the essence of fall flavors. It’s versatile enough to serve as breakfast or dessert and can be customized with various add-ins like nuts or chocolate chips. Give it a try, and enjoy this moist, flavorful loaf topped with creamy frosting!