Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting

If you’re looking for a cozy, irresistible treat to welcome the flavors of fall into your kitchen, this Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting is your new best friend. Moist and bursting with warm spices, this pumpkin bread perfectly balances sweet and savory notes, all topped with a luscious, tangy cream cheese frosting that elevates every bite. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just to enjoy with your afternoon tea, this recipe brings that comforting, homemade magic right to your countertop.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfectly Moist Texture: The pumpkin puree keeps the bread incredibly soft and tender, making each slice melt in your mouth.
• Rich and Tangy Frosting: Cream cheese frosting adds a tangy sweetness that complements the spices without overpowering the bread.
• Simple and Quick: Easy-to-find ingredients and straightforward steps make it a beginner-friendly recipe.
• Fall Flavor Explosion: Classic warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves give it the ultimate autumn vibe.
• Versatile for Any Occasion: Great for breakfast, dessert, or a snack – it’s a crowd-pleaser anytime.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting uses simple yet essential ingredients, each adding to the flavor, texture, and color that make this bread so special. From pumpkin puree that provides moisture to a blend of spices that creates its signature warm taste, every component has a delicious role.

• Pumpkin Puree: The star ingredient that adds moisture and a vibrant orange hue.
• All-Purpose Flour: Forms the structure of the bread for a tender crumb.
• Sugar: Balances the earthiness of the pumpkin with sweetness.
• Eggs: Help bind ingredients and add richness.
• Vegetable Oil: Keeps the bread moist without making it heavy.
• Brown Sugar: Adds a subtle caramel flavor and enhances moisture.
• Ground Cinnamon, Nutmeg, and Cloves: These spices create that warm, inviting pumpkin bread flavor.
• Baking Soda and Baking Powder: Essential for a light and fluffy rise.
• Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all other flavors.
• Cream Cheese: For the frosting, adds creamy richness and tanginess.
• Butter: Softens the frosting and adds smooth texture.
• Powdered Sugar: Sweetens the frosting with a perfect silky finish.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds depth to both the bread and the frosting.

Variations for Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting

One of the best things about this Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting is how easy it is to adapt! Whether you want to mix up the flavors, customize for dietary needs, or simply try something new, these variations will help you keep this favorite fresh and exciting.

• Nutty Addition: Stir in chopped walnuts or pecans for a pleasant crunch in each bite.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make it safe for gluten-sensitive friends.
• Spiced Up: Add a pinch of ground ginger or cardamom to intensify the warm spices.
• Chocolate Lovers’ Twist: Fold in dark chocolate chips before baking for melty sweetness.
• Vegan Version: Substitute eggs with flax eggs and use vegan butter and cream cheese alternatives.

How to Make Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a loaf pan to prevent sticking. Gather and measure out all your essential ingredients so you have everything at hand, especially the pumpkin puree and cream cheese for the frosting.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, eggs, vanilla extract, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth and well combined. This mixture is the moist base that will give your bread its tender crumb.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and the blend of warm spices — cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Sifting helps achieve a lighter texture by removing lumps and evenly distributing the leavening agents and spices.

Step 4: Blend Everything Together

Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring just until incorporated. Be careful not to overmix, as this can toughen the bread. You want a batter that is thick yet smooth, with no visible pockets of flour.

Step 5: Bake the Bread

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared loaf pan and bake on the center rack for 55 to 65 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center — it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Once baked, allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 6: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

While the bread cools, whip together softened cream cheese and butter in a mixing bowl until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until the frosting is smooth, fluffy, and spreadable. The tanginess of the cream cheese balances the sweetness and spices in the bread beautifully.

Step 7: Frost the Bread

Once the loaf is completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. For an extra touch, you can pipe the frosting or sprinkle with chopped nuts or a dusting of cinnamon.

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Use Pure Pumpkin Puree: Avoid pumpkin pie filling which contains added sugars and spices to control flavor and sweetness.
• Don’t Overmix: Stir ingredients until just combined to keep the bread tender and fluffy.
• Low and Slow Cooling: Cool the bread completely before frosting to prevent melting and sliding.
• Softened Cream Cheese and Butter: For smooth frosting, ensure both are at room temperature before mixing.
• Storage Tip: Wrap leftovers tightly or store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

How to Serve Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting

Garnishes

Add a sprinkle of chopped toasted pecans or a dash of cinnamon on top of the frosting to bring a subtle crunch and enhance the autumn feel. Fresh cranberries or pomegranate seeds can also add a festive pop of color and tartness.

Side Dishes

Pair your pumpkin bread with a hot cup of chai tea, pumpkin spice latte, or rich coffee for a perfect partnership of flavors. It also pairs well with cream cheese or butter on the side for those who want extra richness.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut the pumpkin bread into thick slices and serve on a rustic wooden board with dollops of cream cheese frosting on the side. For gatherings, consider turning the bread into mini cupcakes or serving bite-sized pieces on a dessert platter for easy sharing.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover pumpkin bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate for up to a week. The cream cheese frosting may firm up slightly in the fridge, so allow it to come to room temperature before serving.

Freezing

You can freeze the pumpkin bread either plain or frosted. Wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil or place in a freezer-safe bag. Frozen bread stays fresh for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Reheating

To enjoy warm slices, gently reheat in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or warm in a low oven for 10 minutes. If frosted, add a little extra frosting after warming to refresh the creamy topping.

FAQs

Can I use canned pumpkin puree for this recipe?

Absolutely, canned pumpkin puree works perfectly and is often the easiest option. Just make sure it’s pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling.

How long does this pumpkin bread stay fresh?

When stored in an airtight container at room temperature, it stays fresh for about 3 days, but refrigeration can extend freshness up to a week.

Can I omit the cream cheese frosting?

Yes! The bread itself is flavorful and moist, so it’s great on its own or with butter, but the cream cheese frosting adds a delicious tangy finish that many love.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

The original recipe uses all-purpose flour, but you can substitute a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend to make it gluten-free without compromising texture.

What if I want a less sweet frosting?

Simply reduce the powdered sugar in the frosting to taste or add a touch more cream cheese for tanginess, balancing the sweetness.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly comforting about a slice of homemade Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting that warms your heart with every bite. This recipe is a wonderful way to celebrate simple, seasonal ingredients and share a little slice of fall magic with family and friends. So grab your mixing bowl and get ready to bake your new favorite pumpkin treat!

Related Posts

• Flourless Pistachio Cake with Chocolate Ganache
• Christmas Tree Cake Crack
• Flourless Chocolate Protein Brownie Bites

Print