Libby’s Pumpkin Bread is a timeless classic, loved for its rich pumpkin flavor, warm spices, and moist texture. Made with pure pumpkin puree, this easy quick bread is perfect for fall gatherings, holiday baking, or a cozy treat any time of the year. Whether enjoyed as a breakfast delight or an afternoon snack, this homemade pumpkin bread delivers a comforting taste in every slice.
Table of Contents
Key Benefits
- Moist and Flavorful – The combination of pumpkin puree and warm spices creates a rich, tender texture with deep autumn flavors.
- Easy to Make – This is a simple, beginner-friendly quick bread recipe that requires minimal effort and basic pantry ingredients.
- Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether for breakfast, dessert, or a holiday treat, this bread pairs well with coffee, tea, or a festive spread.
- Freezer-Friendly – Pumpkin bread can be made ahead and stored for weeks, making it a great make-ahead option for busy schedules.
- Customizable – Enhance the recipe by adding chocolate chips, nuts, or a cream cheese swirl for extra indulgence.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon ground cloves
Wet Ingredients:
- 1 can (15 ounces) Libby’s 100% pure pumpkin
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- ⅔ cup water
- 2 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Add-Ins:
- 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- ½ cup raisins
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and lightly flour two 9×5-inch loaf pans to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, salt, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Set aside.
Step 3: Blend the Wet Ingredients
In another large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, eggs, vegetable oil, water, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently with a spatula or wooden spoon until just incorporated. Do not overmix, as this can affect the bread’s texture.
Step 5: Add Optional Ingredients
If using, fold in the chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or raisins until evenly distributed.
Step 6: Fill the Loaf Pans
Between the prepared loaf pans, divide the batter evenly.
Step 7: Bake the Pumpkin Bread
On the center rack of the oven, place the pans and bake for 55–65 minutes.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Remove from the oven and allow the bread to cool in the pans for 10 minutes. before slicing and serving, transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Pro Tips and Variations
Pro Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Bread
- Measure Ingredients Accurately: Use the spoon-and-level method for flour to prevent a dense loaf.
- Do Not Overmix: Stir the batter until just combined to keep the texture light and moist.
- Check for Doneness Correctly: Insert a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean, the bread is done.
- Let It Cool Completely: Cooling on a wire rack prevents the bread from becoming soggy.
- Store Properly: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or an airtight container to keep it fresh for longer.
Variations to Try
- Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread: Add ¾ cup of chocolate chips for a rich, sweet twist.
- Nutty Pumpkin Bread: Mix in ½ cup of chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch.
- Spiced Pumpkin Bread: Increase the cinnamon and nutmeg for a bolder spice flavor.
- Pumpkin Muffins: Pour the batter into muffin tins and bake for 20–25 minutes instead of a loaf.
- Healthier Version: Swap half of the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour and use honey or maple syrup instead of granulated sugar.
Serving Suggestions
Libby’s pumpkin bread is incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways, whether as a comforting breakfast or a sweet afternoon snack. Here are a few ideas to elevate your pumpkin bread experience:
For Breakfast or Brunch
- Serve with Cream Cheese: Spread a thin layer of cream cheese or whipped butter on a warm slice of pumpkin bread for added richness.
- Pair with Hot Drinks: Pumpkin bread pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or spiced chai. For a festive touch, serve it with a pumpkin spice latte during the fall season.
- Top with Fresh Fruit: Add a handful of fresh berries or sliced bananas for a sweet and fruity complement to your bread.
For Dessert
- Serve with Ice Cream: Top a slice with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for an indulgent treat.
- Drizzle with Caramel or Chocolate Sauce: For an extra decadent touch, drizzle warm caramel or melted chocolate over the bread.
- Make a Pumpkin Bread Trifle: Layer crumbled pumpkin bread with whipped cream, caramel sauce, and chopped nuts in a glass dish for a visually stunning and delicious dessert.
As a Gift
- Package in Decorative Wrapping: Slice and wrap your pumpkin bread in parchment paper and tie it with a ribbon for a thoughtful homemade gift.
- Pair with Jam or Honey: Serve it alongside a jar of homemade jam, honey, or even Nutella for an extra treat.
Conclusion
Libby’s pumpkin bread recipe is a simple yet incredibly delicious way to bring the flavors of fall into your kitchen. With its moist texture, rich pumpkin flavor, and perfect blend of spices, this bread is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Whether enjoyed for breakfast, as a snack, or even as a dessert, it’s versatile enough to suit any occasion.
By following the easy steps and using quality ingredients, you’ll be able to create a pumpkin bread that’s both comforting and satisfying. Plus, with the ability to tweak the recipe with add-ins or toppings, you can make it your own. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is straightforward and ensures a great result every time.
Libby’s pumpkin bread is more than just a seasonal treat; it’s a versatile, crowd-pleasing loaf that you’ll want to make again and again. Enjoy every bite of this warm, aromatic bread and share it with loved ones for a true taste of autumn!
FAQs
- How do you know when pumpkin bread is done baking?
To check if your pumpkin bread is done, insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, the bread is ready. If it’s still wet, continue baking for an additional 5–10 minutes, checking periodically.
- Does Libby’s pumpkin need to be cooked?
No, Libby’s canned pumpkin is already cooked. It’s pureed and ready to use directly in your recipes without needing any further cooking or preparation.
- How do you keep pumpkin bread from burning?
To prevent burning, always follow the recommended baking time and temperature in the recipe. Additionally, you can cover the top of the loaf with aluminum foil halfway through the baking process if it’s browning too quickly, ensuring it cooks evenly.
- How long will pumpkin bread stay fresh?
Properly stored, pumpkin bread can stay fresh for up to 3–4 days at room temperature. To extend its shelf life, you can store it in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze it for up to 3 months. Be sure to wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or foil before storing to prevent it from drying out.