Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping

This Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping is the perfect treat to celebrate the fall season. With its moist texture and rich pumpkin flavor, this recipe stands out with a delightful brown sugar crumb topping that adds extra sweetness and crunch. Whether for a family gathering, holiday celebration, or simply to enjoy with your morning coffee, this pumpkin bread is versatile and sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Simple: This recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Deliciously Moist: The use of pumpkin puree ensures each slice is incredibly moist and packed with flavor.
• Perfect for Sharing: This recipe yields two loaves, making it ideal for gifting or serving at gatherings.
• Fall Flavors: Enjoy the warm spices of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger that evoke the essence of autumn.
• Customizable Options: Feel free to add nuts or chocolate chips for extra texture and flavor variations.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools for an efficient baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Bread pans (8×4)
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Whisk
• Rubber spatula
• Pastry cutter or fork

Importance of Each Tool

• Bread pans: These specific sizes ensure even baking and proper loaf shape.
• Mixing bowls: Having multiple sizes allows you to mix dry ingredients separately from wet ones easily.
• Rubber spatula: Great for scraping down the sides of bowls to ensure all ingredients are well mixed.
• Pastry cutter: Perfect for creating that crumbly topping by cutting in butter evenly.

Ingredients

This easy Pumpkin Bread recipe is topped with a brown sugar crumb topping (aka, a streusel topping). Full of pumpkin flavor and rich pumpkin spice, this moist pumpkin bread is a fall staple!

For the Pumpkin Bread

• 3 1/3 cups all purpose flour
• 1 1/2 tsp salt
• 2 tsp baking soda
• 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves
• 1/4 tsp ground allspice
• 1/4 tsp ground ginger
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 cup canola oil (or vegetable oil)
• 4 large eggs
• 1 15oz can pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
• 2/3 cup water
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Crumb Topping

• 1/2 cup butter, cold and cubed
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 3/4 cup all purpose flour
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon

How to Make Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease two 8×4 bread pans using baking spray. You may also line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal later.

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl:
1. Mix together the flour, salt, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, allspice, and ginger until fully combined.

Step 3: Combine Sugars

Add in:
1. The granulated sugar and brown sugar; mix until everything is combined well.

Step 4: Add Oil

Create a well in the center of your dry mixture:
1. Pour in the canola oil.
2. Mix just until combined; note that the mixture will appear dry.

Step 5: Incorporate Eggs

Add the eggs:
1. Incorporate them two at a time, mixing well after each addition until fully blended (the mixture remains dry).

Step 6: Add Pumpkin Mixture

Now include:
1. The pumpkin puree, water, and vanilla extract.
2. Mix until everything is well combined.

Step 7: Divide Batter

Divide the batter evenly between your two prepared bread pans. Set aside while you prepare the topping.

Step 8: Make Crumb Topping

In a separate bowl:
1. Mix together flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
2. Cut in cold butter using a fork or pastry cutter until it resembles coarse crumbs.

Step 9: Top Your Loaves

Sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over both batters in their respective pans.

Step 10: Bake

Bake in your preheated oven for about 55–65 minutes or until a cake tester comes out clean. If necessary, tent foil over the loaves if they are browning too quickly.

Step 11: Cool Loaves

Allow to cool in pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them onto a wire rack to finish cooling completely.

Step 12: Slice & Serve

Slice your delicious Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping and enjoy!

How to Serve Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping

Serving Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping can elevate your fall gatherings. This delightful bread pairs well with various accompaniments that enhance its rich pumpkin flavor and crumbly topping.

With Cream Cheese Spread

• A smooth cream cheese spread adds a tangy contrast to the sweetness of the bread. You can mix in some herbs or spices for an extra kick.

As French Toast

• Transform slices of pumpkin bread into French toast by dipping them in a cinnamon-infused egg mixture and frying until golden brown. Serve with maple syrup for a delicious breakfast option.

With Hot Beverages

• Pair your pumpkin bread with hot beverages like coffee, tea, or spiced cider. The warmth of these drinks complements the spices in the bread perfectly.

For Dessert Sandwiches

• Make dessert sandwiches by spreading Nutella or peanut butter between two slices of pumpkin bread. This unexpected twist is both fun and indulgent.

With Vanilla Ice Cream

• Serve warm slices topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a comforting dessert. The cold ice cream melts slightly on the warm bread, creating a delightful treat.

How to Perfect Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping

To achieve the best results with your Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping, consider these helpful tips:

• Measure ingredients accurately – Using precise measurements ensures consistent texture and flavor.
• Use fresh spices – Freshly ground spices enhance the overall taste, making your pumpkin bread more aromatic.
• Don’t overmix – Mixing just until combined helps maintain a tender crumb; overmixing can lead to dense bread.
• Check doneness carefully – Use a toothpick inserted into the center; if it comes out clean, your bread is ready to be taken out.
• Cool properly – Letting the bread cool in the pans for 10 minutes prevents it from becoming soggy before transferring it to a wire rack.
• Store correctly – Wrap leftover pumpkin bread tightly in plastic wrap to keep it moist and fresh for days.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping

Pairing side dishes with your Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some perfect options:

1. Cinnamon Applesauce – This warm side dish adds a sweet and spicy note that complements the flavors of pumpkin well.
2. Maple Glazed Carrots – Roasted carrots drizzled with maple syrup offer a sweet contrast that balances nicely with the bread.
3. Mixed Green Salad – A light salad with vinaigrette provides freshness, counteracting the richness of the pumpkin bread.
4. Cheese Platter – Include assorted cheeses like brie or cheddar for a savory element that contrasts beautifully with sweet pumpkin flavors.
5. Butternut Squash Soup – A creamy soup warms up any meal while enhancing autumnal flavors alongside pumpkin bread.
6. Candied Pecans – These crunchy nuts add texture and sweetness, making them an excellent snack or topping choice alongside your dish.
7. Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Seasoned sprouts lend an earthy flavor that pairs wonderfully with sweet dishes like pumpkin bread.
8. Spiced Chai Latte – Enjoying slices of pumpkin bread alongside this spiced drink creates a cozy fall experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps that can affect the final outcome. Here are some common mistakes to avoid.

• Ignoring ingredient temperature: Using cold eggs or oil can lead to a lumpy batter. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing.
• Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can make the bread tough. Mix just until combined for a tender loaf.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Scooping flour directly from the bag can pack it down, leading to too much flour in the recipe. Use a spoon to fluff the flour and then spoon it into your measuring cup.
• Skipping the crumb topping: The crumb topping adds flavor and texture. Don’t skip this step; it’s what makes this pumpkin bread special!
• Not checking for doneness: Every oven is different, so start checking your bread at 55 minutes. A toothpick should come out clean when it’s done.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping

• Wrap individual loaves tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, wrap in foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat slices on a microwave-safe plate for about 20-30 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes, you can use cooked and pureed fresh pumpkin. Just ensure it’s well-drained for the right consistency.

How can I customize my Easy Pumpkin Bread?

Feel free to add nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit to give your bread extra flavor and texture!

What if my bread is too dry?

If your bread turns out dry, consider adding a splash of milk or water next time during mixing to retain moisture.

Is this recipe suitable for vegan diets?

You can substitute eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce and use plant-based oil to make it vegan-friendly.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping is not only delicious but also versatile! You can easily customize it with your favorite mix-ins or spices. This cozy treat is perfect for fall baking or any time you crave something sweet. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!