Description
This Honey Pumpkin Bread is a moist, spiced quick bread perfect for autumn mornings or any time you crave a comforting treat. Infused with warm cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, and naturally sweetened with honey and granulated sugar, this loaf offers a delightful balance of flavors. The tender crumb is enhanced by pumpkin puree and a hint of lemon and vanilla extracts, making it a delicious and aromatic bread to share with family and friends.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 9 oz all purpose flour (1 2/3 cups)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon cloves
- 3/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 3 large eggs
- 5 oz vegetable oil (2/3 cup)
- 6 oz granulated sugar (2/3 cup)
- 4 oz honey (1/3 cup)
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon extract
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 8 oz canned pumpkin puree (1 cup)
Topping
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare the pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Butter a 9"x5" loaf pan and line it with parchment paper or alternatively butter and flour the pan to prevent sticking.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined. Set this aside.
- Combine wet ingredients: In a separate large mixing bowl, beat the eggs, vegetable oil, granulated sugar, honey, lemon extract, and vanilla extract on medium speed until the mixture is emulsified and smooth.
- Add pumpkin and dry ingredients: Fold the pumpkin puree into the wet mixture until incorporated. Then add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir gently just until the batter is combined; avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender.
- Transfer and add topping: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar evenly over the top of the batter for a sweet crust.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs but no raw batter.
- Cool: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then carefully remove it and transfer to a wire rack. Let it cool completely to room temperature before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Use canned pumpkin puree for consistent moisture and flavor; avoid pumpkin pie filling which contains added spices and sugar.
- Ensure not to overmix the batter once the dry ingredients are added to prevent a dense loaf.
- The granulated sugar topping adds a pleasant crunch and sweetness but can be omitted if preferred.
- Store the bread wrapped tightly at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
- This bread freezes well; wrap in plastic wrap and foil before freezing for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American