Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping

This easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping is a delightful treat perfect for any fall gathering or cozy family brunch. It boasts a rich pumpkin flavor and a sweet, crunchy topping that makes it irresistible. Whether you enjoy it warm with butter or as a snack throughout the day, this pumpkin bread is sure to become a favorite. Its unique blend of spices captures the essence of autumn, making it suitable for various occasions from holiday feasts to casual coffee breaks.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe requires minimal effort and simple ingredients, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of spices blends beautifully with the pumpkin puree, creating a moist and flavorful loaf.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it fresh out of the oven or toasted with your favorite spread. It’s perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack.
• Perfect for Gifting: Wrap it up and share with friends and family as a thoughtful homemade gift during the fall season.
• Freezes Well: Make extra loaves and freeze them for later! This pumpkin bread retains its deliciousness even after freezing.

Tools and Preparation

To make this easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping, gather your essential tools and equipment. Having the right tools on hand will streamline the process and ensure great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Rubber spatula
• Whisk
• Two 8×4 bread pans
• Parchment paper
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Various sizes allow you to mix dry ingredients separately from wet ingredients, which is essential for even distribution.
• Rubber spatula: Perfect for scraping down sides of bowls and ensuring no ingredient is left behind.
• Cooling rack: Allows air circulation around the bread, which helps prevent sogginess after baking.

Ingredients

This easy Pumpkin Bread recipe is topped with a brown sugar crumb topping (aka, a streusel topping). Full of pumpkin flavor and rich pumpkin spice, this moist pumpkin bread is a fall staple!

Ingredients:
– 3 1/3 cups all purpose flour
– 1 1/2 tsp salt
– 2 tsp baking soda
– 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp ground cloves
– 1/4 tsp ground allspice
– 1/4 tsp ground ginger
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1 cup canola oil (or vegetable oil)
– 4 large eggs
– 1 15oz can pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
– 2/3 cup water
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup butter, cold and cubed
– 1/2 cup brown sugar (for topping)
– 3/4 cup all purpose flour (for topping)
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon (for topping)

How to Make Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease two 8×4 bread pans using baking spray or line them with parchment paper for easier removal later.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine:
* All-purpose flour
* Salt
* Baking soda
* Ground cinnamon
* Ground nutmeg
* Ground cloves
* Ground allspice
* Ground ginger

Mix these ingredients together until well combined.

Step 3: Add Sugars

Add in granulated sugar and brown sugar to the dry mixture. Mix until thoroughly combined.

Step 4: Incorporate Oil

Make a well in the center of your mixed dry ingredients. Pour in the oil and mix just until combined. The mixture will be quite dry at this stage.

Step 5: Add Eggs

Add in eggs two at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Your batter will remain somewhat dry but that’s normal!

Step 6: Mix Pumpkin Puree Mixture

Now add in the pumpkin puree, followed by water and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is well combined into a smooth batter.

Step 7: Divide Batter into Pans

Carefully pour or scoop the batter evenly into your two prepared bread pans. Set aside while you prepare the crumb topping.

Step 8: Make Crumb Topping

In another bowl, mix together:
* All-purpose flour
* Brown sugar
* Ground cinnamon

Add in cubed cold butter. Use a fork or pastry cutter to cut in butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Step 9: Add Topping to Batter

Sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over both pans filled with batter. Make sure to cover each loaf generously!

Step 10: Bake Your Bread

Place both pans in your preheated oven. Bake for about 55–65 minutes or until a cake tester inserted into the center comes out clean. If needed, tent foil over the top if it’s browning too quickly.

Step 11: Cool Down

Once baked, allow loaves to cool in their pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 12: Serve!

Slice your easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping when ready to serve. Enjoy every moist bite!

How to Serve Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping

Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping is a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying it for breakfast, dessert, or a snack, these serving suggestions will elevate your pumpkin bread experience.

Toasted with Butter

• Toast slices of the pumpkin bread and spread a pat of butter on top. The warm butter melts into the crumb topping, enhancing the flavors.

Cream Cheese Spread

• Serve with a dollop of cream cheese spread. The tanginess complements the sweetness of the bread beautifully.

Drizzled with Honey

• A light drizzle of honey adds an extra touch of sweetness and pairs well with the spiced flavors of the pumpkin bread.

With Fresh Fruit

• Enjoy slices alongside fresh fruit like apples or pears. The freshness balances the richness of the bread.

Accompanied by Coffee

• Pair your pumpkin bread with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon snack. The warm beverage enhances the comforting flavors.

As Breakfast French Toast

• Transform leftover pumpkin bread into French toast by dipping slices in an egg mixture and frying them. Top with syrup for a delicious twist!

How to Perfect Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping

To achieve the best results with your Easy Pumpkin Bread, consider these handy tips:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your baking powder and spices are fresh for optimal flavor and rise.
• Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off to avoid dense bread.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined after adding wet ingredients to keep the bread tender.
• Cool Completely: Allow the loaves to cool completely before slicing to prevent them from becoming gummy.
• Store Properly: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.
• Experiment with Add-ins: Consider adding nuts or chocolate chips for additional texture and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping

Pairing side dishes with your Easy Pumpkin Bread can enhance your meal or snack experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Greek Yogurt
   A rich source of protein, Greek yogurt adds creaminess and balances out the sweetness.

2. Fruit Salad
   A mix of seasonal fruits provides freshness and complements the spiced flavors of the pumpkin bread.

3. Granola
   Crunchy granola adds texture and can be served as a topping over yogurt alongside your pumpkin bread.

4. Chai Tea
   The warm spices in chai tea pair nicely with pumpkin flavors, creating a comforting drink option.

5. Mixed Nuts
   A bowl of mixed nuts offers a salty contrast that works well against the sweet loaf.

6. Cheese Platter
   Include soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese for an elegant touch that contrasts beautifully with sweet breads.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When baking Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping, avoiding common mistakes can make a significant difference in your final product.

• Ignoring ingredient temperatures: Using cold eggs or oil can affect the batter’s texture. Always ensure your eggs are at room temperature and oil is slightly warmed for better mixing.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to dense bread. Stir just until combined after adding wet ingredients to keep it light and fluffy.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off. Scooping directly can pack it down, leading to dry bread.
• Skipping the crumb topping: The crumb topping adds texture and flavor. Don’t skip this step; it elevates the bread from good to great!
• Not checking doneness: Ovens may vary, so start checking for doneness a few minutes before the suggested time using a cake tester.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between slices if you prefer individual servings.

Freezing Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping

• Wrap loaves tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil for up to 3 months.
• Label with the date for easy identification.

Reheating Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Wrap in foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat a slice on a microwave-safe plate for 15-20 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, flipping until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin puree! Just ensure it is cooked and blended until smooth.

How do I know when my pumpkin bread is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s ready.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Adding nuts or chocolate chips can enhance texture and flavor. Just fold them into the batter gently before pouring into pans.

What if I don’t have allspice?

You can substitute allspice with an equal amount of cinnamon or nutmeg. The flavor will still be delicious!

How long does this pumpkin bread last?

Properly stored, it lasts up to 5 days in the fridge and can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping is not only simple to make but also versatile enough for any occasion. Enjoy it as a dessert or even as a delightful breakfast treat! Feel free to customize it by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or even dried fruits for extra flavor.