If you’re craving a comforting, seasonal treat that’s bursting with warmth and flavor, you’re in for a real joy with the Irresistibly Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping Recipe. This pumpkin bread is wonderfully moist from the pumpkin puree, perfectly spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg, and just sweet enough to satisfy without overwhelming. The crumb topping adds that delightful crunch that makes every bite a cozy experience worth savoring. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a friendly kitchen newbie, this recipe brings joy and pumpkin-spiced magic to your table in a snap.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for a handful of simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together beautifully to create that classic pumpkin bread flavor and texture. Each item plays a vital role, from the richness of the eggs and oil to the warm spices and the sweet, buttery crumb topping.
- 1 cup pumpkin puree: This is the star ingredient, providing moisture, natural sweetness, and that vibrant orange hue.
- 1 cup sugar: Brown sugar is the best choice here to add depth and caramel undertones.
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil: It keeps the bread moist and tender; melted coconut oil can be a lovely substitute for a subtle twist.
- 2 large eggs: These bind everything together and add richness.
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: Gives the bread its perfect structure and crumb.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps your bread rise and stay fluffy.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Warms up the flavor profile beautifully.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds just the right hint of spice to round things out.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without being noticeable on its own.
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for topping): Forms the base of the crumb topping.
- 1/3 cup brown sugar (for topping): Brings a caramelized crunch to the crumb layer.
- 1/4 cup butter (melted, for topping): Rounds out the richness and binds the crumb topping ingredients.
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (for topping): Echoes the pumpkin’s warm spices in the topping.
How to Make Irresistibly Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a standard loaf pan with a bit of butter or non-stick spray to make sure your pumpkin bread slides out easily after baking. This early prep sets a smooth path for the rest of the process.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, sugar, and vegetable oil until combined. Then, crack in the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. This mixture should look smooth and glossy and smells wonderfully spiced already.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, sift or whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. This ensures that your spices and leavening agent are evenly distributed, which is the secret to a consistent texture and flavor in every slice.
Step 4: Blend Dry and Wet Ingredients
Slowly fold the dry ingredients into the wet pumpkin mixture. Be gentle but thorough—to avoid overmixing, stir just until you no longer see flour pockets. Overworking the batter can lead to dense bread, and we want this loaf to be irresistibly tender.
Step 5: Prepare the Crumb Topping
In a small bowl, combine the 1/2 cup flour, brown sugar, melted butter, and cinnamon. Mix with a fork or your fingers until you’ve created a crumbly mixture that effortlessly clings together when pressed. This topping will create that golden, sweet crisp layer everyone loves.
Step 6: Assemble and Bake
Pour your batter into the greased loaf pan, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the crumb topping generously over the batter. Pop it into your preheated oven and bake for about 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the tantalizing aroma fill your kitchen—it’s almost ready!
Step 7: Cool and Enjoy
Once baked, let the pumpkin bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. This rest time helps the flavors meld and the crumb topping to stay perfectly crisp.
How to Serve Irresistibly Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping Recipe
Garnishes
A simple dusting of powdered sugar or a light spread of cream cheese frosting takes this already delightful pumpkin bread to the next level. Freshly chopped pecans or walnuts sprinkled on top can add a lovely nutty crunch that pairs beautifully with the soft cake and crumb topping.
Side Dishes
This pumpkin bread pairs beautifully with a steaming cup of coffee or spiced chai tea for a cozy autumn breakfast or snack. For a heartier option, serve alongside creamy vanilla yogurt or a dollop of ricotta drizzled with honey, balancing warmth with a touch of smooth creaminess.
Creative Ways to Present
Looking to impress friends or family? Slice and serve the pumpkin bread slightly warm with a scoop of cinnamon ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce. For a brunch spread, arrange slices on a rustic wooden board with assorted cheeses and fresh fruit for a seasonal centerpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover pumpkin bread wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay fresh and moist for up to three days, making it an excellent option for a ready-to-eat snack throughout the week.
Freezing
If you want to save this beauty for later, slice the bread and wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen pumpkin bread with crumb topping can last up to three months. Just thaw at room temperature or warm gently in the oven before serving.
Reheating
To enjoy your pumpkin bread warm, pop slices in a toaster oven for a few minutes or microwave briefly on a paper towel to avoid sogginess. The crumb topping maintains its crunch better if reheated in the oven, so opt for that when you have a few extra minutes.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned for this recipe?
Absolutely! Fresh pumpkin puree works wonderfully and may add an even brighter pumpkin flavor. Just be sure to cook and puree your fresh pumpkin well before using it to maintain the right moisture balance.
Is it possible to make this pumpkin bread gluten-free?
Yes, substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend can work well. Choose a blend that includes xanthan gum or add a binding agent to keep the texture tender and avoid crumbly bread.
Can I substitute the vegetable oil with another type of fat?
Certainly! Melted coconut oil is a popular alternative that adds a slight coconut aroma. You can also use melted butter, but remember it might result in a denser crumb compared to oil-based fat.
How long will this pumpkin bread stay fresh?
Stored properly at room temperature in an airtight container, the bread will stay fresh for about three days. Refrigeration can extend freshness but may dry it out; make sure to wrap it well if refrigerating.
What’s the best way to ensure the crumb topping stays crunchy?
To keep that topping crisp, avoid covering the bread tightly while it’s still warm, and try reheating slices in the oven instead of the microwave. This helps maintain the crumb’s delightful texture experience.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Irresistibly Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping Recipe that makes it a comforting kitchen favorite. Its ease and incredible flavor bring smiles with every slice, whether for breakfast, dessert, or a cozy snack. I promise once you try this recipe, it will become a cherished go-to for your pumpkin-loving soul, perfect for sharing or savoring all on your own.
Print
Irresistibly Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 10 slices
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This irresistibly easy pumpkin bread combines moist, spiced pumpkin goodness with a buttery crumb topping for a perfect autumn treat. Easy to prepare and packed with warm flavors like cinnamon and nutmeg, it’s an ideal bake for cozy mornings or gatherings.
Ingredients
Bread Ingredients
- 1 cup pumpkin puree (use canned or fresh)
- 1 cup sugar (brown sugar adds extra depth)
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil (can substitute with melted coconut oil)
- 2 large eggs (helps bind ingredients)
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (provides structure)
- 1 teaspoon baking soda (ensures bread rises)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (infuses warm flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg (adds a hint of spice)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (enhances overall flavor)
Crumb Topping
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (base for topping)
- 1/3 cup brown sugar (adds caramel flavor)
- 1/4 cup butter (melted for richness)
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (complements pumpkin flavor)
Instructions
- Prepare the Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, sugar, vegetable oil, and eggs. Mix well until the mixture is smooth and uniform to ensure all the ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined to avoid overworking the batter.
- Make the Crumb Topping: In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup flour, brown sugar, melted butter, and cinnamon. Use a fork or your fingers to blend until crumbly and evenly combined.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour the batter into a greased or parchment-lined loaf pan, then evenly sprinkle the crumb topping over the surface. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice into 10 generous pieces and enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- For extra moistness and flavor, use fresh pumpkin puree if available.
- Brown sugar in the batter or crumb topping enhances the depth of flavor.
- Ensure not to overmix the batter to keep the bread tender.
- Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- You can add chopped nuts or raisins to the batter for extra texture and sweetness.
