Best Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bread Recipe – Moist and Irresistible

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how easy this pumpkin bread is to throw together—no mixer, no fuss, just mix, pour, and bake. The blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves gives it that unmistakable autumn flavor, while the cinnamon sugar topping creates a lightly crisp, golden crust that makes every slice feel like something special. It’s just as perfect for breakfast with coffee as it is for dessert or a late-night snack.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• all-purpose flour

• granulated sugar

• brown sugar

• baking soda

• baking powder

• salt

• ground cinnamon

• ground nutmeg

• ground ginger

• ground cloves

• canned pumpkin puree

• vegetable oil

• eggs

• milk

• vanilla extract

• cinnamon and sugar (for topping)

Directions

1. I start by preheating my oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter, then lightly dusting it with flour.

2. In a large bowl, I whisk together the flour, both sugars, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves until everything is evenly combined.

3. In a separate bowl, I whisk the pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, eggs, milk, and vanilla until completely smooth.

4. I pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and gently stir until just combined. I don’t overmix—some lumps are okay.

5. I pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.

6. For the topping, I mix together 3 tablespoons of sugar with 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, then sprinkle it generously over the top of the batter.

7. I bake the bread for 55 to 65 minutes, checking at the 55-minute mark with a toothpick inserted into the center—it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.

8. I let the bread rest in the pan for 10 minutes before turning it out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 1 loaf, yielding about 8 to 10 slices.
Prep time is 15 minutes.
Bake time is around 60 minutes.
Total time is about 1 hour and 15 minutes.
Each slice contains approximately 285 calories.

Variations

Sometimes I fold in chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch, or toss in a handful of chocolate chips when I want something sweeter. For a lighter version, I’ve swapped the vegetable oil for applesauce with good results. If I want a more intense spice flavor, I double the cinnamon or add a pinch of cardamom.

Storage/Reheating

I keep this bread tightly wrapped at room temperature for up to 3 days. If I’m storing it longer, I refrigerate it for up to 5 days or freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic. To reheat, I microwave a slice for 15–20 seconds or warm it in a low oven for a few minutes. It tastes even better the next day as the spices meld.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes, I sometimes use homemade pumpkin puree, but I make sure it’s well-drained and smooth. Canned pumpkin is more consistent and easier to work with.

Why is my bread sinking in the middle?

This can happen if it’s underbaked or if the batter was overmixed. I always test with a toothpick and avoid opening the oven door too early.

Can I make this into muffins?

Absolutely. I divide the batter into a muffin tin and bake at 350°F for 20–25 minutes. I check with a toothpick just like I would for a loaf.

Is it okay to skip the cinnamon sugar topping?

Yes, but I highly recommend it. That sugary crust adds texture and flavor. When I’ve skipped it, the bread was still good, just not quite as special.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, I’ve doubled it to make two loaves before. Just be sure to use two pans and rotate them halfway through baking if they’re on the same rack.

Conclusion

This cinnamon sugar pumpkin bread is one of those cozy, go-to recipes I come back to every fall. It’s easy, moist, and full of warm spice, with a cinnamon-sugar crust that takes it over the top. Whether I’m baking for guests, sharing a loaf with a friend, or just treating myself, this bread always delivers that perfect homemade comfort.