Best Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bread: Moist Homemade Recipe Ready in 60 Minutes!

Introduction

There’s something magical about the smell of freshly baked pumpkin bread wafting through your kitchen the warm, spicy aroma of cinnamon, the cozy sweetness of pumpkin, and that irresistible sugary crust that beckons you to grab a slice before it even cools. Whether it’s a crisp autumn morning, a cozy weekend brunch, or a midweek treat, this Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bread is the ultimate comfort food that’s both indulgent and surprisingly easy to make.

What sets this recipe apart is its perfectly moist crumb and the golden cinnamon-sugar topping that gives each bite a sweet, crunchy contrast. And the best part? You can have this heavenly bread ready in just 60 minutes no lengthy overnight prep or complicated techniques needed.

Fun Fact: Pumpkin has been a staple in American kitchens since the 17th century, often appearing in breads, pies, and savory dishes. Pairing pumpkin with cinnamon sugar is a timeless tradition that dates back to early colonial baking!

This recipe is perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a cozy snack with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or cider. It’s sure to be a family favorite and a Pinterest-worthy showstopper.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick & Easy: From mixing to slicing, the bread is done in about 60 minutes.
2. Moist & Tender: Pumpkin puree and molasses keep the crumb soft and flavorful.
3. Perfectly Spiced: Pumpkin pie spice and cinnamon sugar topping add the perfect balance of warmth and sweetness.
4. Versatile: Enjoy warm with butter, cream cheese, or even as a base for pumpkin bread pudding.
5. Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this comforting fall treat.
6. Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for holiday gatherings, brunches, or as a gift for friends.

💡 Tip Box: The secret to the perfect moist pumpkin bread is not overmixing the batter—mix just until combined!

Ingredients Breakdown

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious pumpkin bread:

For the Bread

• 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour – Provides structure while keeping the bread soft.
• 2 teaspoons baking powder – Helps the bread rise and stay fluffy.
• 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice – The warming blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves.
• ¼ teaspoon salt, or to taste – Balances sweetness and enhances flavors.
• ¾ cup granulated sugar – For sweetness.
• ¼ cup light brown sugar, packed – Adds moisture and subtle molasses flavor.
• ¾ cup pumpkin puree – Not pumpkin pie filling. Keeps the bread moist and rich.
• ⅓ cup vegetable oil, canola oil, or melted coconut oil – Adds fat for a tender crumb.
• ¼ cup milk (Silk Unsweetened Vanilla Almondmilk or your choice) – Makes the batter pourable and light.
• 2 tablespoons mild or medium molasses – Adds depth and a slight caramel undertone.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract – Enhances sweetness and flavor complexity.

For the Cinnamon Sugar Topping

• 3 tablespoons granulated sugar, divided
• 1 ½ teaspoons cinnamon, divided

💡 Ingredient Tip: Use fresh pumpkin puree for the best flavor; canned pumpkin puree works perfectly too, but avoid pumpkin pie filling—it’s too sweet and spiced.

Tools & Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowls (medium and large)
• Whisk and spatula
• Loaf pan (8×4 or 9×5 inches)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Small bowl for cinnamon sugar topping
• Cooling rack

💡 Pro Tip: Line your loaf pan with parchment paper for easy removal and clean slicing.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat & Prepare

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Grease your loaf pan with butter or nonstick spray and lightly dust with flour, or line with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

• In a medium bowl, whisk together:
  • Flour
  • Baking powder
  • Pumpkin pie spice
  • Salt

Tip Box: Sifting the flour and spices ensures an even crumb and avoids clumps of spice.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

• In a large bowl, combine:
  • Granulated sugar
  • Brown sugar
  • Pumpkin puree
  • Oil
  • Milk
  • Molasses
  • Vanilla extract
• Whisk until smooth and fully incorporated.

Sensory Cue: The batter should smell warm and spiced, with a silky texture.

Step 4: Combine Wet & Dry Ingredients

• Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula.
• Mix just until no streaks of flour remain. Do not overmix.

💡 Pro Tip: Overmixing will make the bread dense; fold gently for a tender crumb.

Step 5: Add Cinnamon Sugar Topping & Bake

• In a small bowl, combine 1 tablespoon sugar with ½ teaspoon cinnamon for the first layer. Sprinkle over the batter. Repeat with remaining sugar and cinnamon, layering evenly.
• Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
• Let cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack.

Tips, Variations & Tricks

• Nutty Variation: Fold in ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch.
• Chocolate Twist: Add ½ cup mini chocolate chips or drizzle chocolate glaze on top.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour.
• Vegan Option: Use flax eggs (2 tbsp ground flax + 6 tbsp water) instead of real egg, and use plant-based milk.
• Make-Ahead: Batter can be refrigerated overnight for deeper flavor.

💡 Engagement Prompt: What’s your favorite pumpkin bread add-in—nuts, chocolate, or raisins? Comment below!

Flavor Profile & Pairings

• Flavor: Warm, spiced, sweet, subtly earthy from pumpkin and molasses.
• Texture: Moist, tender crumb with a slightly crunchy cinnamon sugar crust.

Perfect Pairings

• Beverages: Hot coffee, chai latte, spiced apple cider, or pumpkin spice latte.
• Toppings: Butter, cream cheese, or honey drizzle.
• Extras: Serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for dessert.

Nutritional Overview

Estimated per slice (12 slices per loaf):

• Calories: ~210
• Protein: 3g
• Carbs: 36g
• Fat: 7g
• Fiber: 2g

🥕 Dietary Notes: Can be adapted to be dairy-free or vegan. Pumpkin adds fiber and Vitamin A.

Make-Ahead & Meal Prep Tips

• Prep Ahead: Mix dry ingredients the night before for faster assembly.
• Storage: Keep at room temperature, covered, for 2–3 days. Refrigerate up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Slice the cooled bread and wrap in foil; freeze for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Warm slices in a toaster or microwave for 20–30 seconds.

FAQs & Troubleshooting

Q1: Why is my pumpkin bread dense?

• Avoid overmixing. Ensure your baking powder is fresh.

Q2: Why didn’t the bread rise?

• Check oven temperature and measure ingredients carefully.

Q3: Can I use canned pumpkin pie filling?

• No, it’s too sweet and contains extra spices. Use pure pumpkin puree.

Q4: Can I make muffins instead of a loaf?

• Absolutely! Reduce bake time to 18–22 minutes for muffins.

Cooking Timeline (At a Glance)

Task	Time
Prep Ingredients	10 minutes
Mix Wet & Dry	5 minutes
Assemble & Add Topping	5 minutes
Bake	50–60 minutes
Cool & Slice	10–15 minutes
Total Time	~60 minutes

Serving Suggestions & Plating Ideas

• Serve slices warm with butter or cream cheese.
• Stack on a rustic wooden board with pumpkin decorations for fall-themed photos.
• Pair with coffee mugs or mini lattes for cozy Pinterest-worthy images.

Recipe Variations & Creative Twists

1. Maple Glaze Pumpkin Bread: Drizzle a maple glaze on top after cooling.
2. Pumpkin Spice Latte Bread: Add 1 tsp instant coffee powder to batter.
3. Cranberry Pumpkin Bread: Fold in ½ cup dried cranberries for tart contrast.
4. Chocolate Swirl: Swirl in melted chocolate before baking.

Ingredient Spotlight: Pumpkin

• Fun Fact: Pumpkins are 90% water and rich in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
• Health Benefits: Vitamin A supports vision and immunity.
• Selection Tip: Look for firm, heavy pumpkins with deep orange flesh.

Pro Cooking Tips & Techniques

• Room-temperature ingredients blend more easily.
• For extra moist bread, replace ¼ cup oil with applesauce.
• Check oven temperature with a thermometer for precise baking.

Storage & Freezing Guide

• Room Temp: Up to 3 days, wrapped tightly.
• Fridge: Up to 5 days in airtight container.
• Freezer: Wrap slices individually in foil, then bag; thaw at room temp.

Nutrition Estimate Table (Per Slice)

Calories	Protein	Carbs	Fat	Fiber
210	3g	36g	7g	2g

Engagement Boosters

• Try this recipe and comment your favorite twist!
• Save to Pinterest for fall baking inspiration.
• If you love this, check out:
  • [Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Muffins]
  • [Pumpkin Pie Cheesecake Bars]
  • [Maple Glazed Pumpkin Scones]

Poll Question: Do you prefer your pumpkin bread classic or with chocolate swirls?

Expanded Conclusion

This Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bread is everything you want in a fall treat: quick, easy, comforting, and irresistibly flavorful. With its tender crumb, warm spices, and sweet topping, it’s the perfect way to bring autumn flavors into your home any time of the year.

💌 Bake, savor, and share! Don’t forget to pin it for later and leave a comment telling us how your loaf turned out!

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