Ah, fall is in the air, and you know what that means—time to pull out the cozy sweaters, sip on pumpkin spice lattes, and bake this delightful Maple Pumpkin Bread! I absolutely love this recipe because it captures the essence of autumn with its warm spices and that irresistible maple flavor. Each loaf, fresh from the oven, fills my kitchen with the most comforting aroma that seems to say, “Fall is here!”
I have this delightful memory of making this bread with my mom on a crisp October afternoon. We would rush to the kitchen, armed with our favorite mixing bowls and a stash of essential spices, laughing as we tried to remember the exact measurements from the last time we made it. It was a ritual that marked the beginning of fall in our home, and now, I’m so thrilled to carry on that tradition!
What’s in Maple Pumpkin Bread?
Pumpkin Puree: This is the star of the show! Rich in nutrients and flavor, pumpkin puree gives the bread that moist texture and an earthy sweetness. I always opt for the canned variety—it’s perfectly cooked and save so much time!
Maple Syrup: A touch of maple syrup brings a natural sweetness to the bread, further enhancing that autumnal experience. I recommend using pure maple syrup for the best flavor. Nothing beats the taste of the real deal!
Vegetable Oil: This ensures the bread remains incredibly moist. Coconut oil can also be a great substitute if you want a hint of tropical flavor.
Brown Sugar: This adds depth and a slight caramel flavor to the bread. You can use light or dark brown sugar, depending on how rich you want the flavor to be.
Cinnamon and Nutmeg: Fall wouldn’t be the same without these spices! They add warmth and a nostalgic aroma to your kitchen. Make sure to use freshly ground if possible for the best taste!
Baking Soda & Baking Powder: These leavening agents will help your bread rise to perfection, creating that lovely fluffy texture.
Salt: Just a pinch to balance the sweetness and enhance the flavors.
Eggs: Eggs bind everything together beautifully while also giving the loaf structure.
Is Maple Pumpkin Bread Good for You?
Oh, let me tell you, while this bread is a treat to indulge in, it does have its benefits!
Pumpkin Puree: Not only does it taste amazing, but pumpkin is also packed with vitamins A, C, and fiber. It’s like a nutritious hug in a loaf!
Maple Syrup: It has a lower glycemic index than regular sugar, making it a slightly better choice in terms of sweetness.
However, it’s important to remember that this bread is still quite indulgent due to the sugar and oil content. Enjoy it in moderation, and share it with friends—sharing is caring after all!
Ingredients
– 1 cup pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
– 1/3 cup vegetable oil
– 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 2 large eggs
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
*This recipe serves about 8 people, perfect for sharing or enjoying throughout the week!*
How to Make Maple Pumpkin Bread?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, maple syrup, oil, brown sugar, and eggs until well combined.
3. In another bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and spices.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix!
5. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
6. Bake for about 60-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
A Slice of Perfection!
If you want to add a little extra bliss, consider slathering a fresh slice with a thick layer of cream cheese frosting or simply some butter! You can even add nuts or chocolate chips to the batter for a delightful variation.
I hope you give this Maple Pumpkin Bread a try because it’s truly a taste of fall! It would make a perfect addition to your holiday gatherings or a cozy afternoon treat while watching your favorite movie. I’d love to hear how yours turns out, so don’t forget to share your experience! Happy baking! 🍂🍁
