Autumn is the perfect season for cozy, comforting flavors, and this Sour Cream Pumpkin Bread is the ideal treat to welcome the fall weather. With its rich, moist texture and delightful pumpkin flavor, this bread is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re looking for an easy breakfast, snack, or dessert, this recipe is both simple and satisfying. Packed with spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, this bread will fill your home with the warm, welcoming scent of fall.
Why You’ll Love This Sour Cream Pumpkin Bread
This Sour Cream Pumpkin Bread is a crowd-pleaser for many reasons. It’s incredibly moist, thanks to the sour cream, which keeps the texture soft and fluffy. The pumpkin flavor is beautifully complemented by aromatic spices, making every bite feel like a warm embrace. Whether you’re baking it for a family gathering, a holiday celebration, or just to enjoy on a cool day, this recipe is perfect for every occasion. It’s also easy to prepare, making it a great choice for both beginner and experienced bakers.
Ingredients
For the best results, you’ll need the following ingredients:
• Butter: Adds richness and moisture to the bread.
• Sugar: Sweetens the bread and balances the spices.
• Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and contribute to the structure.
• Pumpkin Puree: Brings in the signature pumpkin flavor and moistness.
• Sour Cream: Ensures the bread stays incredibly soft and moist.
• Flour: Forms the base structure of the bread.
• Baking Powder & Baking Soda: Helps the bread rise and become light and fluffy.
• Spices (Cinnamon, Cloves, Nutmeg): Provide the perfect autumnal warmth and depth of flavor.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the other flavors.
Alternative Ingredient Suggestions
If you’re looking for swaps or need to adjust the recipe for dietary preferences, here are a few suggestions:
• Gluten-Free Flour: Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend to make this recipe gluten-free.
• Non-Dairy Sour Cream: Use a dairy-free sour cream alternative if you’re following a vegan or lactose-free diet.
• Maple Syrup: Replace the sugar with maple syrup for a natural sweetness and a slight maple flavor.
• Pumpkin Spice: For an extra flavor boost, substitute the cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg with pumpkin spice.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make your Sour Cream Pumpkin Bread:
- Preheat Oven & Prepare Pans: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease and flour two 9×5-inch loaf pans to prevent the bread from sticking.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Add Pumpkin & Sour Cream: Stir in the pumpkin puree and sour cream until fully incorporated.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg.
- Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Bake: Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared loaf pans. Bake for 65-75 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the bread comes out clean.
- Cool & Enjoy: Let the bread cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Run a knife around the edges of the pans to loosen the bread, then turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips & Tricks
• Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter can lead to dense bread, so mix until just combined.
• Test for Doneness: The bread is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top is browning too quickly, cover it with foil and continue baking.
• Freezing: This bread freezes beautifully! After it cools completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw and warm it up.
• Add-ins: For added texture, you can fold in chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, or even chocolate chips for a sweet twist.
Pairing Ideas and Variations
This Sour Cream Pumpkin Bread is perfect on its own, but it can be paired with various toppings or served with side dishes for a more complete meal:
• Cream Cheese Frosting: Add a rich layer of cream cheese frosting for a decadent treat.
• Whipped Butter: Serve with cinnamon butter for a simple yet flavorful addition.
• Tea or Coffee: Enjoy this bread with a hot cup of tea or coffee for the ultimate cozy experience.
• Vegan Version: Use plant-based butter, eggs, and sour cream alternatives to make a delicious vegan version of this recipe.
Seasonal and Health Benefits of Pumpkin
Pumpkin is not only delicious, but it’s also packed with nutritional benefits. Rich in vitamins like A and C, it’s a great addition to your fall meals. It’s also a good source of fiber, which aids digestion. When combined with the healthy fats from sour cream and the spices that are loaded with antioxidants, this bread offers more than just a tasty treat—it’s a seasonal indulgence that supports your health.
In conclusion, this Sour Cream Pumpkin Bread is the ultimate fall recipe. Whether you’re making it for a family gathering or enjoying it as a personal treat, this moist, flavorful bread will delight your taste buds. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy the comforting tastes of fall.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Sour Cream Pumpkin Bread is the perfect autumn treat, combining the rich flavors of pumpkin, warm spices, and a soft, moist texture. This easy-to-make bread is ideal for family gatherings, holiday celebrations, or simply enjoying with a warm cup of tea or coffee. Whether you bake it ahead of time and freeze it for later or enjoy it fresh from the oven, it’s sure to become a staple in your fall baking repertoire. The addition of sour cream makes this bread extra moist and flavorful, ensuring that every bite is a comforting delight. Don’t wait—gather your ingredients and start baking this seasonal favorite today!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?
Yes, you can absolutely use fresh pumpkin puree in place of canned. To do so, simply roast or steam the pumpkin, then puree it until smooth. Make sure to drain any excess water to avoid making the bread too moist.
How do I store Sour Cream Pumpkin Bread?
Store Sour Cream Pumpkin Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. If you need to keep it for a longer period, you can freeze it. Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. Thaw before serving.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can make this recipe gluten-free by swapping the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the blend you use includes xanthan gum or another binding agent to help the bread hold together.
Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to this recipe?
Absolutely! You can add 1/2 to 1 cup of chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans) or chocolate chips to the batter. Stir them in gently after combining the wet and dry ingredients for added texture and flavor.

Sour Cream Pumpkin Bread – Easy & Delicious Fall Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: 2 loaves
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Sour Cream Pumpkin Bread is a moist, flavorful autumn treat combining rich pumpkin, warm spices, and a soft texture. Perfect for family gatherings, holiday celebrations, or a cozy snack with tea or coffee, this easy-to-make bread is sure to become a seasonal favorite.
Ingredients
- Butter
- Sugar
- Eggs
- Pumpkin Puree
- Sour Cream
- Flour
- Baking Powder
- Baking Soda
- Salt
- Cinnamon
- Cloves
- Nutmeg
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease and flour two 9×5-inch loaf pans.
- Cream together softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Stir in pumpkin puree and sour cream until fully incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; mix on low speed until just combined.
- Divide batter evenly between prepared pans.
- Bake 65-75 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.
- Cool in pans 10 minutes; loosen edges with a knife, then transfer to wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
Do not overmix the batter to avoid dense bread. Test doneness with a toothpick. Cover with foil if browning too quickly. Bread freezes well for up to three months. Add chopped nuts or chocolate chips for extra texture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 70 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 55mg