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Autumn Pumpkin Bread

This pumpkin bread is a moist, tender loaf baked with pureed pumpkin and warm spices, creating a fragrant and hearty treat. Its slightly dense crumb and golden crust make it ideal for cozy mornings or afternoon tea. The addition of subtle flavors like cardamom and a swirl of cream cheese elevate it beyond a basic quick bread.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour sifted
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 cup pure pumpkin puree
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
  • 4 oz cream cheese for optional swirl

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Rubber spatula
  • Loaf pan
  • Oven

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a standard loaf pan to ensure easy removal of the bread once baked.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted vegetable oil and sugar until well combined and slightly glossy.
  3. Add the eggs one at a time, whisking thoroughly after each addition until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
  4. Stir in the pumpkin puree until evenly incorporated, creating a thick, orange batter.
  5. Sift together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and cardamom in a separate bowl to distribute the spices evenly.
  6. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula, mixing just until no streaks remain and the batter is thick but foldable.
  7. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula for a smooth top.
  8. If desired, warm the cream cheese slightly and swirl it into the top of the batter for a fun marbled effect.
  9. Bake for about 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the loaf turns a deep golden brown.
  10. Remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
  11. Slice the loaf once cooled, revealing a moist crumb with a tender interior and a slightly crisp crust, ready to serve and enjoy.

Notes

For added flavor, consider sprinkling chopped pecans or walnuts on top before baking.