Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping

This Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping is the perfect treat for any occasion. With its rich pumpkin flavor and delightful spices, this moist bread is a wonderful addition to your fall baking repertoire. Whether you’re serving it at family gatherings, holiday celebrations, or simply enjoying it with your morning coffee, this recipe offers a deliciously comforting experience that’s hard to resist. The crumb topping adds an irresistible crunch, making it a standout choice for dessert lovers!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Simple: This recipe is easy to follow, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Deliciously Spiced: The blend of warm spices enhances the natural sweetness of the pumpkin.
• Perfect for Sharing: Two loaves mean there’s plenty to share with friends and family.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it plain, toasted with butter, or paired with your favorite spreads.
• Ideal for Any Occasion: Perfect for fall gatherings, holiday parties, or cozy weekends at home.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping, gather your tools. Having everything ready makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk
• Rubber spatula
• Bread pans (8×4)
• Pastry cutter or fork
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining dry and wet ingredients without mess.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements ensure your bread turns out perfectly every time.
• Rubber spatula: Great for scraping down the sides of bowls and ensuring all ingredients are incorporated.
• Cooling rack: Allows air circulation around the bread, preventing sogginess.

Ingredients

This easy Pumpkin Bread recipe is topped with a brown sugar crumb topping (aka, a streusel topping). Full of pumpkin flavor and rich pumpkin spice, this moist pumpkin bread is a fall staple!

For the 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 eggs, large
• 1 15oz 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

How to Make Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease two 8×4 bread pans using baking spray or line them with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine:
1. Flour
2. Salt
3. Baking soda
4. Ground cinnamon
5. Ground nutmeg
6. Ground cloves
7. Ground allspice
8. Ground ginger

Whisk these ingredients together until well mixed.

Step 3: Combine Sugars and Oil

Add in:
– Granulated sugar
– Brown sugar

Mix until fully combined.

Step 4: Incorporate Wet Ingredients

Create a well in the center of the dry mixture and add:
– Canola oil

Mix just until combined; note that the mixture will be dry.

Step 5: Add Eggs

Crack in the eggs two at a time:
– Mix after each addition until well incorporated; expect a dry texture.

Step 6: Add Pumpkin Mixture

To your bowl, add:
– Pumpkin puree
– Water
– Vanilla extract

Stir until everything is well combined.

Step 7: Prepare Pans

Divide the batter evenly between the two greased bread pans. Set aside as you prepare the crumb topping.

Step 8: Make Crumb Topping

In a separate bowl, mix together:
– All-purpose flour
– Brown sugar
– Ground cinnamon

Cut in cold butter using a fork or pastry cutter until it resembles coarse crumbs.

Step 9: Top Your Loaves

Evenly sprinkle the crumb topping over both batters in each pan.

Step 10: Bake

Place in preheated oven and bake for 55-65 minutes. Use a cake tester to check doneness; if needed, tent foil over tops if they brown too quickly.

Step 11: Cool Down

After baking, allow loaves to cool for about 10 minutes before removing from pans. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 12: Serve and Enjoy!

Slice up your Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping, serve it warm or at room temperature, and enjoy!

How to Serve Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping

Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you prefer it as a breakfast option, a snack, or a dessert, there are endless ways to serve this aromatic bread.

For Breakfast

• With Butter – Spread a layer of butter over warm slices for a rich and creamy texture.
• With Jam – Try pairing it with your favorite fruit jam for a sweet and fruity start to your day.

As a Snack

• With Cream Cheese – A dollop of cream cheese adds tanginess and pairs perfectly with the sweetness of pumpkin bread.
• With Fresh Fruit – Serve alongside fresh apple slices or berries for a refreshing contrast.

For Dessert

• With Ice Cream – Top warm slices with vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience.
• With Whipped Cream – A generous swirl of whipped cream adds lightness and complements the flavors beautifully.

How to Perfect Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping

Making the perfect Easy Pumpkin Bread involves some simple tips that enhance flavor and texture. Follow these suggestions to ensure your bread turns out amazing every time.

• Use Fresh Spices – Freshly ground spices provide more flavor than pre-ground versions. Consider grinding your own for optimal taste.
• Measure Flour Accurately – Use the spoon-and-level method to avoid packing flour, which can lead to dense bread.
• Don’t Overmix Batter – Mix just until combined to keep the bread light and fluffy; overmixing can make it tough.
• Test for Doneness – Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when the bread is done baking.
• Cool Properly – Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack for even cooling.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping

Pairing side dishes with your Easy Pumpkin Bread can elevate your meal. Here are some delicious options that complement its flavors wonderfully.

1. Greek Yogurt – A dollop of Greek yogurt adds creaminess and protein, balancing the sweetness of the bread.
2. Maple Syrup Drizzle – A light drizzle of maple syrup enhances the autumnal flavors present in pumpkin bread.
3. Chai Tea – This spiced tea complements pumpkin’s warm flavors, making it an excellent beverage choice alongside your bread.
4. Cinnamon Applesauce – Smooth applesauce spiced with cinnamon provides moisture and pairs well with pumpkin undertones.
5. Nut Mix – A handful of spiced nuts offers crunch and texture that contrasts nicely with the soft crumb of the bread.
6. Roasted Vegetables – Serve alongside roasted seasonal vegetables like Brussels sprouts or carrots for a savory balance.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping, it’s easy to make some common errors. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:

• Incorrect measurements: Always measure your ingredients accurately. Using too much or too little can affect the texture and flavor of your bread.

• Not mixing properly: Ensure that you mix the dry ingredients well before adding wet ingredients. This prevents clumps and ensures an even distribution of flavors.

• Skipping the cooling time: Allowing the bread to cool properly is essential. Cutting it too soon can lead to a soggy texture.

• Using pumpkin pie filling: Make sure you use pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, as it contains added sugars and spices that can alter the recipe.

• Overbaking or underbaking: Keep an eye on the baking time. Every oven is different, so check for doneness a few minutes early to avoid overbaking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Easy Pumpkin Bread in an airtight container.
• It will last for about 5-7 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping

• Wrap loaves tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped loaves in a freezer-safe bag; they can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Microwave slices for about 15-20 seconds until warm, being careful not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat, flipping occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping:

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for part of the all-purpose flour. However, this may change the texture slightly.

How do I know when my pumpkin bread is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached, your bread is done.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize your Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping by adding walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips.

What other spices can I use?

You can experiment with additional spices like cardamom or ginger to enhance the flavor profile of your pumpkin bread.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping is not only bursting with pumpkin flavor but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or even dried fruits. It makes for a perfect fall treat or a delightful dessert any time of year. Try this recipe today and enjoy its delightful taste!