Best Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bread Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting treat that brings the essence of fall right into your kitchen, you’ve found it with the Best Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bread. This recipe combines the warmth of cinnamon and spices with moist, tender pumpkin-infused bread that tastes like it came straight from grandma’s oven. The sugar topping creates a delightful crunch that contrasts perfectly with the soft crumb inside. Whether you’re sipping coffee on a crisp morning or serving it at a family gathering, this bread steals the show every single time!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple ingredients come together to create the magic of the Best Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bread, each playing a crucial role in flavor, texture, and appearance. From the rich pumpkin puree that keeps the bread moist to the warming spices that give it that unmistakable autumn feel, every element counts.

• All-purpose flour: Provides structure to the bread while keeping it tender.
• Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps achieve a tender crumb.
• Brown sugar: Brings moisture and a subtle caramel note.
• Baking soda: Acts as a leavening agent for a light rise.
• Baking powder: Adds extra lift along with baking soda.
• Salt: Enhances the overall flavor by balancing sweetness and spices.
• Ground cinnamon: Gives that signature warming spice essential to the bread.
• Ground nutmeg: Adds depth and a nutty warmth.
• Ground ginger: Provides a subtle spicy kick.
• Ground cloves: Adds complexity and aromatic richness.
• Canned pumpkin puree: The star that ensures moistness and pumpkin goodness.
• Vegetable oil: Keeps the bread soft and tender.
• Eggs: Bind ingredients and add richness.
• Milk: Adds moisture and helps create a smooth batter.
• Vanilla extract: Rounds out flavors with a sweet, aromatic note.
• Granulated sugar (for topping): Creates a crisp, sweet crust on top.
• Ground cinnamon (for topping): Intensifies the cinnamon flavor as a finishing touch.

How to Make Best Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bread

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan

Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter and dust it with flour to prevent sticking—this little step ensures your bread releases beautifully after baking.

Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and the blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. This mix is where your bread’s warm, spicy aroma begins to come alive—make sure everything is evenly mixed for perfect flavor distribution.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, eggs, milk, and vanilla extract until completely smooth. This wet mixture brings moisture and richness, which is essential for that tender, moist crumb that the Best Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bread is famous for.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Add the wet ingredients to the dry, stirring gently just until combined. You want to avoid overmixing here—some lumps are okay and actually help keep the bread fluffy instead of dense.

Step 5: Prepare to Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly. Then mix the topping sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl and sprinkle it generously over the batter. This topping will caramelize in the oven, adding a delightful crunchy texture and extra cinnamon punch.

Step 6: Bake and Cool

Bake your bread for 55 to 65 minutes, but start checking at 55 minutes by inserting a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, your bread is done. Let it rest in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely—this rest time helps the bread set for perfect slices.

How to Serve Best Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bread

Garnishes

A dusting of powdered sugar or a light smear of cream cheese frosting can elevate your pumpkin bread to dessert status. You might also try a drizzle of maple syrup or a dollop of whipped butter for extra indulgence.

Side Dishes

This bread pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or chai tea. For a brunch spread, serve alongside fresh fruit or a light salad to balance the sweetness with freshness and crunch.

Creative Ways to Present

Wrap individual slices in parchment paper tied with twine for charming gifts, or layer slices with mascarpone and chopped toasted pecans for an elegant trifle-like treat. The Best Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bread also makes an amazing base for French toast – just imagine those warm spices soaking into eggs and frying up golden!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your leftover pumpkin bread fresh by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or storing it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This preserves moisture and keeps the bread soft.

Freezing

The Best Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bread freezes very well. Slice it beforehand and freeze pieces individually wrapped in foil or plastic wrap. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature or warm gently.

Reheating

To refresh your pumpkin bread’s warmth and softness, microwave a slice for about 15 seconds or toast it lightly. This brings out the spices and revives the delightful crisp topping.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?

Yes, you can! Just make sure to cook and puree fresh pumpkin until smooth and drain any excess liquid. The texture might be slightly different but the flavor will still be delicious.

Is it possible to substitute vegetable oil with butter?

Definitely. Melted butter can add a richer flavor but may result in a denser crumb. For the best cinnamon sugar pumpkin bread texture, vegetable oil is preferred for moisture.

How long does this pumpkin bread stay good?

When stored properly at room temperature, it stays fresh for about three days. Refrigerating can extend shelf life up to a week, but it’s best enjoyed sooner for optimal softness.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans, and even chocolate chips, make wonderful additions. Fold them into the batter right before pouring it into the pan for extra texture and flavor.

Is this bread gluten-free?

This recipe calls for all-purpose flour, which contains gluten. For a gluten-free version, substitute with a gluten-free baking blend, making sure it includes xanthan gum for structure.

Final Thoughts

Making the Best Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bread is like giving yourself a warm hug in bread form. It’s perfect for sharing or savoring in your own quiet moment. Once you try this recipe, I bet it’ll become your go-to fall favorite, filling your home with irresistible sweet-spiced aromas and smiles all around. Trust me, once this bread is in your rotation, your seasonal baking just got a whole lot better!

Print