Pumpkin Bread Recipe (Moist, Easy & Totally Cozy!)

Looking for the perfect pumpkin bread recipe that’s super moist, easy to make, and tastes like fall in every bite? You’re in the right place. This is the recipe we go back to every single year, no matter what else is trending. Whether you’re baking it for breakfast, snacks, or gifting it during the holidays, this pumpkin bread is the cozy treat you need in your life.

Why We Love This Pumpkin Bread So Much

Let’s be honest — not all pumpkin bread recipes are equal. Some turn out too dry, some are overly sweet, and some just don’t bring that deep pumpkin spice flavor we crave. But this one? It’s moist, fluffy, and loaded with warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. We’ve been baking it on repeat during the fall season, and it always disappears within a day.

And don’t worry — this is an easy pumpkin bread recipe. No mixers, no fancy tools, just a bowl, a whisk, and a loaf pan. That’s it!

What You’ll Need to Make Pumpkin Bread

Here’s a simple breakdown of the ingredients. We’ve added a few healthy swaps and notes in case you want to go gluten-free, dairy-free, or just a little lighter.

Ingredients:

• 1 ¾ cups (220g) all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 2 tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ tsp nutmeg
• ¼ tsp ground cloves
• ¼ tsp ground ginger
• ½ cup vegetable oil (or melted coconut oil)
• ¾ cup brown sugar (or maple syrup for a healthy version)
• 2 eggs
• 1 cup canned pumpkin puree (NOT pumpkin pie filling)
• ¼ cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Optional Add-Ins:

• Chocolate chips (for pumpkin chocolate chip bread)
• Chopped walnuts or pecans
• Cream cheese swirl
• Dried cranberries

Want to try this with fresh pumpkin instead of canned? You totally can! Just roast and puree your pumpkin until smooth.

How to Make Pumpkin Bread (Step-by-Step)

You won’t need any special equipment here — just a bowl and a spoon. We love keeping it simple.

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×5” loaf pan or line with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Stuff

In a large bowl, whisk together:

• Flour
• Baking soda
• Salt
• Cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger

This combo gives that cozy pumpkin spice bread flavor.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Stuff

In another bowl, combine:

• Oil
• Brown sugar
• Eggs
• Pumpkin puree
• Milk
• Vanilla

Whisk until smooth.

Step 4: Combine and Fold

Pour the wet mix into the dry ingredients. Gently fold everything together. Don’t overmix — we want that soft texture!

If you’re adding chocolate chips, nuts, or even making a swirl with cream cheese — now’s the time to fold those in.

Step 5: Bake!

Pour the batter into your loaf pan. Smooth the top.

Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

Pro Tips for Super Moist Pumpkin Bread

We’ve made this recipe more times than we can count. Here’s how to make sure it turns out perfect every time.

• Don’t overmix the batter — just fold until combined.
• Use canned pumpkin puree for the best consistency.
• Let it cool before slicing — this helps hold the shape and locks in moisture.
• Want to go full cozy? Add a sprinkle of brown sugar and cinnamon on top before baking!

This is one of those old-fashioned pumpkin bread recipes that gets even better the next day — seriously, the flavors deepen overnight.

Delicious Pumpkin Bread Variations

Looking to mix it up? You’re going to love these variations that people are already searching for:

• Pumpkin Bread with Chocolate Chips – our favorite twist!
• Healthy Pumpkin Bread – use whole wheat flour and maple syrup
• Pumpkin Banana Bread – adds natural sweetness and moist texture
• Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bread – swirl in a cheesecake-style filling
• Gluten-Free Pumpkin Bread – use almond flour or GF blend
• Pumpkin Bread with Fresh Pumpkin – go homemade from scratch
• Vegan Pumpkin Bread – swap eggs with flax eggs and plant milk
• Mini Pumpkin Breads – perfect for gifting or kids’ lunchboxes

How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Bread

You’ll want to keep it fresh (if there’s any left!).

• Room temp: Store in an airtight container up to 4 days
• Fridge: Wrap tightly and chill up to 1 week
• Freezer: Slice and freeze individually for up to 3 months
• To reheat: Microwave a slice for 15 seconds. Top with butter or nut butter — yum!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes! Roast your pumpkin, scoop the flesh, and puree until smooth. You’ll need 1 cup for this recipe.

Why is my pumpkin bread dry?

Most likely overbaking or too much flour. Spoon and level the flour — don’t scoop straight from the bag.

Can I make this into muffins?

Totally! Just reduce bake time to 18–22 minutes and fill muffin cups ¾ full.

Is this like Starbucks pumpkin bread?

Even better — it’s moist, loaded with real pumpkin, and doesn’t cost $4 a slice!

Watch the Pumpkin Bread Tutorial

Want to see how it’s done? Coming soon to our YouTube! Or follow us on Instagram for quick reels and stories.

More Cozy Fall Recipes You’ll Love

• Banana Pumpkin Bread
• Apple Cider Donuts
• Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins
• Cinnamon Swirl Coffee Cake
• Pumpkin Zucchini Bread
• Healthy Granola

Final Thoughts: Your New Go-To Pumpkin Bread Recipe

There you have it — a simple, moist, and flavorful pumpkin bread recipe that hits every note just right. Whether you’re craving something cozy on a chilly morning or need a crowd-pleaser for your fall party, this bread has your back.

And we’re not kidding when we say — this could be your new favorite pumpkin bread ever.

If you give this a try, don’t forget to drop a comment, rate the recipe, or tag us on Instagram with your creation. Happy baking!