This pumpkin bread recipe holds a special place in countless family kitchens, having been passed down through generations and perfected over more than 50 years. Originally clipped from a magazine by a grandmother and later discovered to be from the McCalls Cook Book (Random House, 1963), this recipe represents the very best of classic American quick breads. What makes it truly exceptional is its perfect balance of warm autumn spices, moist pumpkin texture, and that irresistible aroma that fills your home with the essence of fall.
Unlike yeasted breads that require rising time and careful temperature control, this quick bread relies on baking powder and baking soda for its tender crumb. The technique is straightforward and forgiving, making it perfect for baking with children or for novice bakers who want guaranteed success. The result is two beautiful loaves with a deliciously crisp crust when fresh from the oven and a moist, flavorful interior that improves with time.
Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Bread
Time-Tested Perfection – Over 50 years of family baking has proven this recipe’s reliability and delicious results.
Simple Technique – Straightforward mixing method that virtually guarantees success every time.
Perfect Spice Balance – The combination of cloves, cinnamon, and nutmeg creates authentic autumn flavor.
Makes Two Loaves – Perfect for sharing, gifting, or keeping one for yourself while giving one away.
Freezer-Friendly – Stores beautifully for up to three months when properly wrapped.
Versatile Serving – Delicious plain, toasted, or dressed up with butter, cream cheese, or seasonal spreads.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Dry Base:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled – provides structure without creating tough texture
- 1/2 teaspoon salt – enhances flavors and balances sweetness
- 1 teaspoon baking soda – creates lift and tender crumb
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder – ensures proper rise and light texture
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves – adds warm, aromatic spice depth
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – contributes classic autumn warmth
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg – provides subtle, complex spice notes
For the Wet Mixture:
- 1 1/2 sticks (3/4 cup) unsalted butter, softened – creates rich flavor and moist texture
- 2 cups granulated sugar – sweetens and helps create tender crumb
- 2 large eggs – bind ingredients and add richness
- 1 (15-oz) can 100% pure pumpkin puree – provides signature flavor, moisture, and beautiful color
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare Your Workspace
Preheat oven to 325°F and position rack in the middle. Generously grease two 8×4-inch loaf pans with butter and dust with flour, or use baking spray with flour for easier release.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, salt, baking soda, baking powder, cloves, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined. Set aside. Mixing dry ingredients first ensures even spice distribution throughout the bread.
Create the Base Mixture
In a large bowl or electric mixer bowl, beat softened butter and sugar on medium speed until just blended. The mixture will look somewhat crumbly rather than fluffy—this is normal and expected.
Add Eggs for Structure
Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Continue beating for a few minutes until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This step incorporates air for a tender texture.
Incorporate Pumpkin
Beat in the pumpkin puree until combined. Don’t worry if the mixture looks grainy or slightly curdled at this point—this is completely normal and will smooth out during baking.
Fold in Dry Ingredients
Add the flour mixture to the pumpkin mixture and beat on low speed until just combined. Avoid overmixing, which can result in tough bread.
Bake to Perfection
Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake for 65-75 minutes, or until a cake tester inserted in the center comes out clean. The tops should be golden brown and spring back lightly when touched.
Cool Properly
Let loaves cool in pans for about 10 minutes, then turn out onto wire racks to cool completely. This prevents soggy bottoms while ensuring the loaves don’t break apart.
Recipe Notes & Tips
Flour Measurement – Spoon flour into measuring cups and level off for accurate measurement. Too much flour creates dense bread.
Room Temperature Ingredients – Softened butter and room temperature eggs mix more easily and create better texture.
Don’t Overmix – Mix dry ingredients just until combined to prevent tough, dense bread.
Doneness Test – A toothpick should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached.
Fresh Crust Magic – The bread has a delicious crisp crust when fresh; toast slices to recreate this effect later.
Nutritional Information
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 65-75 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 2 loaves (24 slices total)
- Calories per slice: ~166 kcal
Perfect Pairings
Cream Cheese Spread – Classic pairing that complements the spiced bread beautifully.
Butter and Honey – Simple combination that enhances the bread’s natural sweetness.
Hot Coffee or Tea – Warm beverages that highlight the autumn spices.
Pumpkin Butter – Doubles down on pumpkin flavor for true enthusiasts.
Vanilla Ice Cream – Transform slices into an elegant dessert.
Ideal Occasions
Fall Gatherings – Perfect for harvest parties, potlucks, and autumn celebrations.
Holiday Gift Giving – Wrap loaves in decorative packaging for thoughtful homemade presents.
Weekend Baking Projects – Great for leisurely baking with family or children.
Cozy Mornings – Nothing beats fresh pumpkin bread with morning coffee.
Neighborhood Sharing – Two loaves make it easy to keep one and share one.
Storage & Freezing Tips
Room Temperature Storage – Keep wrapped in plastic wrap or airtight containers for up to one week.
Freezing Instructions – Wrap completely cooled loaves securely in aluminum foil, freezer wrap, or freezer bags for up to 3 months.
Thawing Method – Thaw overnight in refrigerator for best texture and flavor.
Slice and Freeze – Pre-slice and freeze individual portions for quick single servings.
Creative Variations to Try
Chocolate Chip Addition – Fold in 1 cup chocolate chips for extra indulgence.
Nut Enhancement – Add 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch and richness.
Cream Cheese Swirl – Create marble effect with sweetened cream cheese mixture.
Glazed Version – Top with simple powdered sugar glaze for special occasions.
Mini Loaf Format – Divide batter among mini loaf pans for gift-sized portions.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Dense, Heavy Bread – Usually caused by overmixing or too much flour. Measure carefully and mix gently.
Dry Texture – Don’t overbake; check doneness at 65 minutes and use proper storage methods.
Sunken Center – Oven temperature too high or underbaking. Use oven thermometer to verify temperature.
Sticking to Pan – Ensure proper greasing and flouring, or use baking spray with flour.
Why This Recipe Works
This pumpkin bread succeeds because it balances moisture from the pumpkin puree with the right amount of flour and leavening agents. The combination of baking soda and baking powder ensures proper rise without creating a tough texture, while the butter and sugar provide richness and tenderness.
The spice blend is carefully calibrated to enhance rather than overpower the pumpkin flavor, and the mixing method prevents overdevelopment of gluten while ensuring all ingredients are properly incorporated.
Final Thoughts
This pumpkin bread represents the very best of family baking traditions—a recipe that’s been tested by time and loved by generations. It proves that some of the most cherished recipes are also the most reliable ones. The combination of nostalgic flavors, foolproof technique, and consistently delicious results makes this a recipe you’ll return to year after year.
Whether you’re continuing a family tradition or starting a new one, this pumpkin bread delivers the kind of comfort and satisfaction that creates lasting memories around the kitchen table.
