Pumpkin bread with crumb topping is a must-try recipe that brings the essence of fall straight to your kitchen. This simple yet indulgent treat combines the warm, earthy flavors of pumpkin and spices with a deliciously sweet, crunchy brown sugar streusel topping. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or as a snack, this moist pumpkin bread will quickly become a seasonal staple in your home.
Why Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping Is the Perfect Fall Recipe
This pumpkin bread recipe stands out for several reasons: it’s incredibly easy to make, moist, and packed with the warm flavors of fall. Topped with a crumb topping, it adds that perfect balance of sweetness and crunch that everyone will love. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just want to treat yourself on a cool autumn day, this pumpkin bread will hit the spot.
Ingredients for Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping
To make this delicious pumpkin bread with a crumb topping, you will need the following ingredients:
- Pumpkin Puree: Provides the moist texture and classic pumpkin flavor.
- Canola Oil: Adds moisture without affecting the flavor.
- Water: Helps achieve the right batter consistency.
- Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add structure to the bread.
- Flour: The base of the bread, giving it the necessary texture.
- Granulated Sugar & Brown Sugar: Sweeten the bread and enhance the flavor.
- Baking Soda & Salt: For leavening and flavor balance.
- Vanilla Extract: Adds depth to the flavor profile.
- Pumpkin Pie Spices (Cinnamon, Ginger, Cloves, Nutmeg): Bring the traditional fall spices to life.
Crumb Topping Ingredients
- Flour: Forms the base of the streusel topping.
- Brown Sugar: Adds sweetness and caramel notes.
- Butter: Provides richness and binds the crumb topping together.
- Cinnamon: Complements the pumpkin flavor with a warm, aromatic spice.
Alternative Ingredient Suggestions
If you’re looking for substitutions, here are a few ideas:
- Pumpkin Puree: You can replace this with sweet potato puree for a slightly different flavor.
- Canola Oil: Swap with vegetable oil or melted coconut oil for a different richness.
- Eggs: For an egg-free version, use flax eggs or unsweetened applesauce as a binder.
- Nuts: If you enjoy some crunch in your bread, feel free to add walnuts or pecans to the batter. Just stir them in after the dry ingredients.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Pumpkin Bread
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 8×4-inch loaf pans. Consider lining the bottoms with parchment paper to help the bread slide out easily.
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, baking soda, and all the spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and allspice).
- Stir in the granulated sugar and brown sugar until everything is evenly mixed.
- Make a well in the center of the dry mixture and add the oil. Mix until the oil is incorporated, though the mixture may still look a bit dry.
- Add eggs two at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the pumpkin puree, water, and vanilla extract until fully combined.
- Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared loaf pans, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- In a separate bowl, prepare the crumb topping by combining flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the batter in both pans.
- Bake for 55-65 minutes, or until a cake tester inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top begins to brown too quickly, cover with foil and continue baking.
- Let the bread cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to finish cooling completely.
Tips & Tricks for Perfect Pumpkin Bread
- Moisture Matters: This bread is naturally very moist due to the combination of pumpkin, oil, and water. Be sure to measure your ingredients accurately to maintain the perfect texture.
- No Lumps, Please: Mix thoroughly to avoid lumps of flour in your batter, as they can result in pockets of uncooked flour in the bread.
- Parchment Paper: Using parchment paper in the pans ensures the bread doesn’t stick, making it easier to remove without damaging the loaves.
- Crumb Topping: If you prefer a less sweet version, feel free to reduce the sugar in the crumb topping.
Pairing Ideas and Variations
This pumpkin bread is delicious on its own, but you can elevate the experience with these pairing ideas:
- Spread: Add a dollop of cream cheese or mascarpone for a rich, tangy contrast to the sweetness.
- Toppings: A drizzle of caramel or a sprinkle of powdered sugar will add an extra level of indulgence.
- Side Dishes: Serve with a warm cup of spiced chai tea or a latte for the ultimate fall treat.
Variations:
- Vegan Version: Swap the eggs for flax eggs and use plant-based oil for a vegan-friendly treat.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
Health Benefits of Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping
While pumpkin bread is considered a dessert, it offers some surprising nutritional benefits thanks to the star ingredient—pumpkin. Rich in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, pumpkin helps support digestive health and boosts immunity. The combination of pumpkin and spices also provides a comforting, cozy feel that can uplift your mood during the colder months.
Make-Ahead Tips
- You can make this pumpkin bread ahead of time and store it in an airtight container for up to a week. It also freezes well for up to three months, so you can enjoy it any time of year.
Enjoy this classic Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping, and let the flavors of fall fill your home with warmth and comfort. Whether for a breakfast treat, a dessert, or just a snack, this recipe is sure to become a beloved favorite.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping is the perfect fall treat that combines warmth, spice, and sweetness in every bite. This recipe is simple to follow and creates a moist, flavorful bread topped with a delightful crumb topping that everyone will love. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just looking to enjoy the comforting flavors of autumn, this pumpkin bread will never disappoint. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and indulge in the cozy, nostalgic taste of homemade pumpkin bread!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree in this recipe?
No, it’s best to use pumpkin puree for this recipe, as pumpkin pie filling is pre-seasoned and contains added sugar. Pumpkin puree allows you to control the flavor and sweetness of your bread, giving it a more natural, pumpkin-forward taste.
Can I make this Pumpkin Bread without the crumb topping?
Yes, you can omit the crumb topping if you prefer a classic, simple pumpkin bread. However, note that the crumb topping adds a sweet, crunchy texture that balances the moisture of the bread, so without it, the bread will be less sweet.
Can I freeze Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping?
Absolutely! Pumpkin bread freezes very well. Once fully cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it at room temperature.
How can I make this recipe healthier?
To make this pumpkin bread a bit healthier, you can reduce the sugar in both the batter and the crumb topping. You can also substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour or use a healthier oil like olive oil. For a lower-fat option, replace some of the oil with applesauce.
Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping – Easy and Moist Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 loaves
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping is a moist, flavorful fall treat combining warm pumpkin spices and a sweet, crunchy brown sugar streusel. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a snack, this easy recipe brings the essence of autumn to your kitchen.
Ingredients
- Pumpkin Puree
- Canola Oil
- Water
- Eggs
- Flour
- Granulated Sugar
- Brown Sugar
- Baking Soda
- Salt
- Vanilla Extract
- Pumpkin Pie Spices (Cinnamon, Ginger, Cloves, Nutmeg)
- Crumb Topping: Flour, Brown Sugar, Butter, Cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 8×4-inch loaf pans and optionally line with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, baking soda, and pumpkin pie spices.
- Stir in granulated sugar and brown sugar until evenly mixed.
- Make a well in center; add oil and mix until incorporated.
- Add eggs two at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in pumpkin puree, water, and vanilla extract until fully combined.
- Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and smooth tops.
- In a separate bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon for crumb topping; cut in cold butter until coarse crumbs form.
- Sprinkle crumb topping evenly over batter in pans.
- Bake 55-65 minutes until a cake tester inserted in center comes out clean; cover with foil if top browns too quickly.
- Cool in pans 10 minutes, then transfer to wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
Measure ingredients accurately to maintain moist texture. Mix thoroughly to avoid lumps. Use parchment paper to prevent sticking. Adjust crumb topping sugar for sweetness preference. Add nuts if desired for extra texture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 230mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
