Description

Moist, spiced, and perfectly sweet—this pumpkin bread is the ultimate fall bake with a tender crumb and cozy flavor that gets even better the next day.

Ingredients

For the Batter:

1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree (e.g., Libby’s)

4 large eggs, at room temperature

1 cup mild oil (e.g., extra virgin olive oil, vegetable oil, or canola oil)

1 tbsp bourbon or vanilla extract

1½ cups granulated sugar (minus 2 tbsp used for pans)

1 cup packed dark brown sugar

3 cups all-purpose flour

1 tsp baking soda

½ tsp baking powder

1 tsp fine salt

2 tbsp pumpkin pie spice blend

For Pan Coating and Topping:

Oil or nonstick spray (for greasing pans)

3 tbsp granulated sugar (2 tbsp for pan, 1 tbsp for topping)

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Instructions

Prepare the Pans & Oven:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9×5-inch loaf pans with oil or spray, then sprinkle 1 tablespoon of sugar into each pan.

Mix Wet Ingredients:
In a large bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, eggs, oil, bourbon or vanilla, granulated sugar (minus 2 tbsp), and brown sugar until smooth.

Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and pumpkin spice until evenly mixed.

Mix Batter:
Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture, whisking gently. Stir by hand an additional 50 strokes to finish combining – don’t overmix.

Fill Pans & Add Topping:
Divide batter evenly between the pans. Sprinkle the remaining 1 tbsp sugar on top of the loaves for a crackly, sweet crust.

Bake:
Bake for 60–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Rotate pans halfway if needed.

Cool & Serve:
Let loaves cool in pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely. For best flavor, wait until the next day to slice and serve.

Notes

Ingredient Substitutions:

Pumpkin Puree: Can substitute sweet potato or butternut squash puree.

Oil: Use any neutral oil or melted butter.

Bourbon: Replace with vanilla extract or try rum extract.

Sugar: Light brown sugar can be used in place of dark.

Pumpkin Spice: Substitute with cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and allspice blend.

Flour: You may use half whole wheat flour for a heartier loaf.

Baking Tips:

Do not overmix the batter — this keeps the crumb tender.

Always check doneness with a toothpick — the center may bake slower.

Let the eggs come to room temperature to prevent curdling.

Serving Ideas:

Serve with butter and honey for breakfast, or with whipped cream cheese for a dessert-style treat.

Great with coffee, chai, or hot apple cider.

Storage & Make Ahead:

Room Temp: Store tightly wrapped for up to 1 week.

Freeze: Freeze sliced or whole loaves up to 3 months.

Make Ahead: Best flavor develops overnight.

Prep Time: 15–20 minutes
Cook Time: 60–65 minutes
Category: Breakfast, Snack, Dessert
Method: Baking (Oven)
Cuisine: American