Easy Pumpkin Bread

This warmly spiced pumpkin bread is the kind of cozy treat that fills your kitchen with the scent of fall, no matter the season. Made with pantry staples and a can of pumpkin puree, this one-bowl recipe comes together quickly and always delivers a moist, tender crumb with rich flavor.

Fall might be my favorite season, but I don’t believe pumpkin is only for October. The other day I found a can of pumpkin in the back of my pantry and decided — why not? With cinnamon in the air and my kids playing nearby, the house slowly filled with the kind of warmth that makes baking feel like home.

Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Bread

• Uses simple pantry ingredients (including canned pumpkin)
• Soft, moist texture with a golden crust
• Naturally dairy-free if you prefer plant-based milk
• Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or cozy afternoons with tea

Ingredients

• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp nutmeg
• 2 eggs
• 1 cup pumpkin puree
• 3/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup of melted butter
• 1/4 cup milk (or plant-based milk)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Optional: pumpkin seeds for topping

See recipe card for quantities.

Instructions

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×5 loaf pan.
• Whisk flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg in one bowl.
• In another bowl, mix eggs, pumpkin puree, sugar, melted butter, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
• Stir wet into dry ingredients just until combined. Don’t overmix.

• Pour into loaf pan.
• Bake 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
• Cool in pan 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Slice when fully cool.

Tips & Variations

• Top with pumpkin seeds after baking for a bit of crunch.
• Add chocolate chips or chopped walnuts for extra indulgence.
• Store covered for up to 4 days or freeze slices individually for later.

I hope this cozy loaf brings a little warmth to your day, whether it’s fall or not.
If you give it a try, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Leave a comment below and let me know what memory it stirred for you.

How to Store Pumpkin Bread

How long does it stay fresh?
Pumpkin bread stays moist and delicious for up to 4 days at room temperature. Keep it tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container.

Can I refrigerate it?
Yes, but it’s best at room temperature! If you do refrigerate, let slices come to room temp or gently warm them before serving.

Can I freeze it?
Absolutely!

• Slice the loaf once fully cool
• Wrap slices individually in parchment or plastic wrap
• Store in a freezer bag or airtight container for up to 2 months

How do I reheat frozen slices?
Toast lightly, or warm in the microwave for about 20 seconds.
Perfect with butter and tea.