This Pumpkin Pecan Bread is a cozy treat filled with warm spices and crunchy pecans. The pumpkin keeps it moist and adds a lovely flavor that’s perfect for fall!
Every slice feels like a hug in a loaf! I love pairing it with a warm drink—it makes my day a little brighter. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, so I can make it anytime! 🍂
Ingredients & Substitutions
Flour: All-purpose flour works best, but you can swap in whole wheat flour for a nuttier taste. Just keep in mind it may alter the texture a bit.
Granulated Sugar & Brown Sugar: I love using a mix of both for depth of flavor. If you need a sugar alternative, try coconut sugar or a sugar substitute that measures like sugar.
Pumpkin Puree: Canned pumpkin puree is a staple here, but if you have fresh pumpkin, just roast and puree it. Just make sure it doesn’t turn out watery!
Pecans: Chopped pecans give a nice crunch, but walnuts or almonds can be a great alternative. Feel free to skip the nuts for a nut-free version!
Oil or Butter: I prefer vegetable oil for moistness, but melted butter adds extra flavor. You can also use coconut oil for a lovely fragrance.
How Do I Ensure My Pumpkin Pecan Bread is Moist and Flavorful?
Getting that perfect moisture and flavor comes down to a few key steps. Here’s how you can do it right:
- Don’t overmix the batter! Mix just until combined to keep your bread tender.
- Use fresh spices rather than old ones for the best flavor. Spices lose potency over time.
- If using fresh pumpkin, make sure it’s well cooked and not too wet. Drain if necessary!
- Check for doneness around the 60-minute mark, as oven temperatures can vary. A toothpick should come out clean.
How to Make Delicious Pumpkin Pecan Bread
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
Wet Ingredients:
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil or melted butter
- 1/4 cup water or orange juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Other Ingredients:
- 3/4 cup chopped pecans (plus extra for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Pumpkin Pecan Bread takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 60-70 minutes to bake. After that, it’s best to let it cool for about 10 minutes in the pan. Overall, you’ll have a delicious loaf ready to enjoy in about 1.5 hours!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep Your Oven and Pan:
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is the perfect temperature for our bread to bake evenly. Next, grease and flour a 9×5 inch loaf pan so your delicious bread doesn’t stick later on.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
Grab a large mixing bowl and whisk together all the dry ingredients: flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger. Make sure everything is mixed nicely!
3. Combine the Wet Ingredients:
In another bowl, beat the eggs. Then add in the pumpkin puree, vegetable oil (or melted butter), water (or orange juice), and vanilla extract. Mix these ingredients until everything is well combined and smooth.
4. Create the Batter:
Now, pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Gently mix everything together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—this will keep the bread nice and tender!
5. Add the Pecans:
Fold in the chopped pecans gently. They’re going to give your bread that wonderful crunch!
6. Pour and Garnish:
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. If you’d like, sprinkle a few extra pecans on top for a lovely garnish.
7. Bake to Perfection:
Place the loaf pan in your preheated oven and bake for 60-70 minutes. Check it around the 60-minute mark by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, your bread is ready!
8. Cool and Enjoy:
Once baked, let your bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This will help keep your crust nice!
9. Serve and Savor:
Slice your beautifully baked Pumpkin Pecan Bread and enjoy it warm or at room temperature. It’s perfect on its own or with a bit of butter for a treat! Share it with friends or savor it all to yourself!
Can I Use Fresh Pumpkin Instead of Canned?
Yes, you can absolutely use fresh pumpkin! Just roast and puree it, making sure it’s well-cooked and not too watery. This can enhance the flavor even more!
How Can I Store Leftover Pumpkin Pecan Bread?
Store any leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it fresh longer, it can be wrapped tightly and frozen for up to 3 months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving!
Can I Substitute Other Nuts?
Absolutely! If you prefer, you can substitute chopped walnuts or almonds for the pecans. You could also omit nuts completely for a nut-free option.
What Can I Pair with Pumpkin Pecan Bread?
This bread is wonderful on its own, but for a delicious treat, try pairing it with cream cheese spread or enjoying it with a warm cup of coffee or tea. It’s a perfect fall breakfast or snack!
