Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping

This Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping is a delightful treat that’s sure to impress. Perfect for cozy fall gatherings, this moist bread is bursting with pumpkin flavor and warm spices. The crumb topping adds a sweet crunch, making it a fantastic choice for breakfast or dessert. Easy to prepare and great for sharing, it will quickly become a favorite in your baking repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Simple: This recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Delicious Flavor: Enjoy the rich taste of pumpkin combined with aromatic spices that capture the essence of fall.
• Versatile Option: Serve it as a breakfast item, snack, or dessert—it’s suitable for any occasion!
• Great for Sharing: Bake two loaves at once; one to keep and one to share with friends or family.
• Freezer-Friendly: This pumpkin bread freezes well, allowing you to enjoy it even later.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the baking process, gather your essential tools. These will help ensure that your experience is smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 2 8×4 bread pans
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk or fork
• Pastry cutter (optional)
• Baking spray

Importance of Each Tool

• Bread Pans: These are necessary for shaping the loaves perfectly.
• Mixing Bowls: Having various sizes allows you to organize your ingredients efficiently.
• Whisk or Fork: Essential for combining dry ingredients thoroughly.
• Pastry Cutter: Useful if you prefer a finer crumb topping; it helps mix butter into dry ingredients evenly.

Ingredients

For the Bread

• 3 1/3 cups all purpose flour
• 1 1/2 tsp salt
• 2 tsp baking soda
• 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves
• 1/4 tsp ground allspice
• 1/4 tsp ground ginger
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 cup canola oil (or vegetable oil)
• 4 large eggs
• 1 15oz can pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
• 2/3 cup water
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Crumb Topping

• 1/2 cup butter, cold and cubed
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 3/4 cup all purpose flour
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon

How to Make Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease two 8×4 bread pans by placing parchment paper in the bottom and using baking spray on the sides.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine:
1. All purpose flour
2. Salt
3. Baking soda
4. Ground cinnamon
5. Ground nutmeg
6. Ground cloves
7. Ground allspice
8. Ground ginger

Stir until well mixed.

Step 3: Combine Sugars and Oil

Add granulated sugar and brown sugar to the dry mixture:
1. Mix until fully combined.
2. Make a well in the center and pour in the oil.
3. Stir just until incorporated—note that the mixture will be dry.

Step 4: Add Eggs

Add eggs two at a time:
1. Mix thoroughly after each addition until fully blended; expect a dry mixture again.

Step 5: Incorporate Pumpkin Mixture

Mix in:
1. Pumpkin puree,
2. Water,
3. Vanilla extract.

Stir until everything is well combined.

Step 6: Prepare Batter

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared bread pans and set aside.

Step 7: Make Crumb Topping

In another bowl, combine:
1. All purpose flour,
2. Brown sugar,
3. Ground cinnamon.

Cut in cold cubed butter using a fork or pastry cutter until it resembles coarse crumbs.

Step 8: Add Topping

Sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over both batters in their pans.

Step 9: Bake

Bake in preheated oven for about:
55–65 minutes or until a cake tester comes out clean. If necessary, tent foil over the top if it’s browning too fast.

Step 10: Cool

Let cool for about ten minutes before removing loaves from pans onto wire racks to finish cooling completely.

Step 11: Serve

Slice, serve, and enjoy your delicious Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping!

How to Serve Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping

Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you serve it as a cozy breakfast or a sweet afternoon snack, these serving suggestions will enhance your experience.

Pair with Coffee

• A warm slice of pumpkin bread pairs wonderfully with a fresh cup of coffee, enhancing the rich flavors of the bread.

Add a Dollop of Whipped Cream

• Top your slice with some whipped cream for an extra indulgent touch. The creaminess complements the spiced bread beautifully.

Serve with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Spread a layer of cream cheese frosting on top for a tangy contrast to the sweetness. This adds a delightful twist to each bite.

Enjoy with Fresh Fruit

• Pair slices with fresh fruit like apples or pears to add a refreshing crunch and balance the flavors of the pumpkin bread.

Create a Pumpkin Bread Sandwich

• Use two slices to make a sandwich filled with your favorite nut butter. This makes for a hearty snack packed with protein.

How to Perfect Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping

Perfecting your Easy Pumpkin Bread is all about attention to detail. Follow these tips for an even better loaf!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure that your spices and baking soda are fresh for optimal flavor and rise.
• Measure Accurately: Use precise measurements for flour and sugars to maintain the right texture and sweetness.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined when adding wet ingredients to avoid dense bread.
• Check Doneness: Use a toothpick or cake tester inserted into the center; it should come out clean when fully baked.
• Cool Properly: Allow the bread to cool in the pan briefly before transferring it to a wire rack. This prevents sogginess.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping

Pairing your Easy Pumpkin Bread with complementary side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Greek Yogurt: A dollop of Greek yogurt adds creaminess and tang, creating a perfect balance with sweet pumpkin flavors.
2. Honey Butter: Spread honey butter on warm slices for an additional layer of sweetness that enhances the crumb topping.
3. Herbal Tea: Serve alongside herbal tea like chamomile or chai, which can complement the warm spices in the bread.
4. Seasonal Salad: A light salad featuring arugula, cranberries, and nuts provides freshness and crunch, balancing out the richness of the bread.
5. Cheese Platter: Offer slices of mild cheeses such as brie or goat cheese for guests who enjoy savory pairings with their sweets.
6. Nut Mix: A bowl of mixed nuts adds crunch and protein, making it an excellent snack alongside your pumpkin treat.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping turns out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes.

• Not measuring ingredients accurately – Use proper measuring cups and spoons to avoid too much or too little of any ingredient, which can affect the texture and flavor.
• Skipping the greasing step – Always grease your bread pans or use parchment paper to prevent sticking. This helps in easy removal of the loaves after baking.
• Overmixing the batter – Mix just until combined when adding ingredients. Overmixing can lead to a denser bread instead of a light, fluffy texture.
• Ignoring the cooling time – Allow the bread to cool for at least 10 minutes in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack. This helps maintain its structure.
• Not checking for doneness – Use a cake tester or toothpick to check if your bread is done. If it comes out clean, it’s ready; otherwise, give it more time in the oven.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap before placing it in the container.

Freezing Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping

• Cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap individual slices or whole loaves in plastic wrap and then foil for up to 3 months.

Reheating Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F and heat slices for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave – Heat on medium power for about 20-30 seconds per slice.
• Stovetop – Place slices in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping so special?

This recipe combines rich pumpkin flavor and spices with a delightful crumb topping, making it perfect for fall gatherings or cozy breakfasts.

Can I substitute other oils in this recipe?

Yes! You can use vegetable oil or melted coconut oil instead of canola oil without affecting the overall taste.

How do I know when my Easy Pumpkin Bread is done?

Use a toothpick or cake tester; if it comes out clean from the center, your bread is ready!

Can I customize my Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping?

Absolutely! Feel free to add nuts like walnuts or pecans, or even chocolate chips for added flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping is not only flavorful but also versatile. Perfect as a dessert or snack, you can easily customize it by adding nuts or chocolate. Give this recipe a try and enjoy its warmth and deliciousness!