There’s something truly comforting about settling in with a slice of freshly baked Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bread. The moment you slice into its golden crust, you’ll notice that sweet, crackling topping that gives way to a tender, moist crumb beneath. This quick bread brings together warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, all mingling with rich pumpkin puree for that classic fall flavor. As your loaf bakes for about an hour, your kitchen will feel like the coziest café, beckoning you to take a break from daily hustle and share a warm slice with someone special. Whether you’re a beginner baker or a seasoned pro looking for a fuss-free treat, this recipe is delightfully simple and rewarding.
Beyond its taste, this Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bread shines in its versatility. With just 15 minutes of prep time, a pop-in-the-oven bake for 55–60 minutes, followed by a quick 10-minute rest, you’ll have a loaf that yields about 12 generous slices—each at around 220 calories. Designed as a beginner-friendly dessert or snack, it pairs marvelously with your morning coffee, afternoon tea, or even as a sweet finish to a family meal. You’ll find yourself returning to this recipe month after month, whether you’re craving that nostalgic fall vibe or simply want a slice of warmth on a chilly evening. Warm up your home and your heart with every fragrant slice.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN CINNAMON SUGAR PUMPKIN BREAD
Before we dive into the baking process, let’s talk about the magic-makers behind this loaf. Each component plays a vital role, from providing structure and moisture to adding sweetness, spice, and that coveted golden crust. Understanding what each ingredient does will help you feel more confident in the kitchen and inspire delicious tweaks down the road.
- All-purpose flour
This pantry staple builds the foundation of your loaf. It supplies structure, allowing the bread to rise and hold together without being too dense.
- Baking soda
Acting as the leavening agent, it creates those tiny air pockets for a tender, lift-off-the-pan texture, ensuring your pumpkin bread isn’t heavy.
- Salt
A pinch of salt heightens all the sweet and spiced flavors, balancing the sugar and pumpkin notes for a well-rounded taste.
- Ground cinnamon
The star spice in both the batter and topping, it infuses warm, sweet notes that make every bite feel like autumn in a mouthful.
- Ground nutmeg
With its slightly nutty, almost peppery flavor, nutmeg deepens the spice profile, adding complexity to the sweet pumpkin base.
- Ground ginger
This pinch adds a subtle zing that cuts through the sweetness, lending a refreshing warmth and depth.
- Unsalted butter
Melted to coat each flour particle, it contributes rich flavor and moisture, resulting in a soft, velvety crumb.
- Granulated sugar
It sweetens the batter and, when mixed with cinnamon for the topping, creates that irresistible crunchy crust.
- Light brown sugar
Packed with molasses, it introduces darker caramel notes and extra moisture, making the loaf tender and flavorful.
- Eggs
They bind the ingredients, help trap air for lift, and contribute to the bread’s golden hue and rich mouthfeel.
- Pumpkin puree
The heart of the recipe, it brings earthy sweetness, moisture, and that signature pumpkin flavor, keeping the bread soft.
- Milk
A bit of milk lightens the batter, ensuring it isn’t too thick while adding tenderness to every slice.
- Vanilla extract
A splash of vanilla rounds out the flavors, tying together the spices and sugars with its sweet, floral notes.
- Granulated sugar (topping)
Combined with cinnamon, this extra sugar layer bakes into a delightful, sweet crust that crackles with each bite.
- Ground cinnamon (topping)
Sprinkled over the batter, it enhances the crust with concentrated spiced sweetness, turning each slice into a little celebration.
HOW TO MAKE CINNAMON SUGAR PUMPKIN BREAD
Now that you know your ingredients, let’s bring them together in a simple, straightforward process. From prepping your pan to that satisfying sprinkle of topping, each step is designed to guide you to baking success. Follow along, and soon your kitchen will be filled with the cozy fragrances and flavors of fall.
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan thoroughly with butter or nonstick spray, or line it with parchment paper to ensure easy removal after baking.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger until the dry spices and leaveners are evenly distributed. Set this dry mixture aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted unsalted butter with the granulated sugar and light brown sugar. Mix vigorously until you see a smooth, glossy blend that’ll enrich the loaf’s texture.
4. Add the eggs to the butter-sugar mixture one at a time, beating well after each addition. This gradual approach creates a stable emulsion for better rise and flavor.
5. Stir in the pumpkin puree, milk, and vanilla extract until the batter is smooth and uniform, with no streaks of pumpkin or liquid.
6. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid over-mixing to keep your bread tender instead of tough.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, using a spatula to smooth the top and level it for even baking.
8. In a small bowl, mix the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon for the topping. Sprinkle this cinnamon sugar evenly over the batter for that crackling crust.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 55–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The topping should be golden and slightly crisp.
10. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This step prevents the loaf from becoming soggy as it settles.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR CINNAMON SUGAR PUMPKIN BREAD
When it comes to serving this spiced marvel, there are countless ways to elevate each slice into a memorable moment. Whether you’re hosting a cozy brunch, enjoying a quiet solo snack, or treating guests at a holiday gathering, these ideas will help you showcase the bread’s comforting flavors and textures. Let your creativity flow as you pair it with drinks, spreads, and toppings that enhance its sweet, spiced profile.
- Toasted & Buttered: Warm a slice in a toaster oven until the cinnamon sugar crust crackles, then spread a thin layer of room-temperature butter. The contrast of warm bread and melting butter is irresistible.
- Cream Cheese Dollop: Add a spoonful of whipped or flavored cream cheese (maple-brown sugar or honey-cinnamon work wonders) on top of a thick slice. The tanginess balances the sweetness beautifully.
- Nutty Add-On: Sprinkle chopped toasted pecans or walnuts on each slice and drizzle with a little maple syrup. The nuts add crunch while the syrup glazes each bite for extra decadence.
- Spiced Latte Pairing: Serve alongside a homemade pumpkin spice latte or chai tea. The complementary flavors of pumpkin, cinnamon, and ginger in your drink create a harmonious fall duet.
HOW TO STORE CINNAMON SUGAR PUMPKIN BREAD
Once you’ve crafted this delightful loaf, keeping it fresh and flavorful is key to enjoying every last slice. Proper storage methods will help maintain moisture, preserve that crackling topping, and extend your bread’s shelf life so you can savor it for days—or even weeks. Whether you bake often or just want to make-ahead for gatherings, these tips have you covered.
- Room Temperature
Store the cooled loaf in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in plastic wrap for up to three days. This keeps the crust crisp and the interior soft.
- Refrigeration
For a longer window (up to one week), wrap the bread securely in plastic wrap, then place it inside a resealable bag in the fridge. Let it come to room temperature or briefly microwave before serving.
- Freezing Slices
Individually wrap each slice in plastic wrap, then place slices in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature or pop a slice in the toaster for a fresh-baked feel.
- Whole Loaf Freezing
Wrap the entire cooled loaf in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil. Label with the date and freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature before serving.
CONCLUSION
This Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bread has everything you need in a quick-bread superstar: cozy spices, tender crumb, and a crackling sweet topping that screams fall comfort. From whisking together pantry staples in just 15 minutes to enjoying that first warm slice fresh from the oven, you’ll appreciate how effortlessly this recipe comes together. Whether you keep it simple with butter, indulge in cream cheese, or pair it with your favorite seasonal drink, each serving feels like a heartwarming hug. As a beginner-friendly loaf that doubles as a dessert or snack, it’s bound to become a regular in your baking rotation.
Feel free to print this article and tuck it into your recipe binder or save it for later use—whether you’re planning a weekend brunch, holiday gathering, or midweek treat. Scroll down to find the FAQ below if you have any lingering questions about techniques, substitutions, or troubleshooting. And if you try this Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bread, I’d love to hear your thoughts! Drop a comment with your feedback, share any variations you experimented with, or ask questions if you need a hand. Happy baking!
Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bread
Description
Experience the perfect fall treat with moist, spiced pumpkin bread topped with a sweet cinnamon sugar crust. A delightful addition to any coffee break or dessert table.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
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In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Set aside.
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Mix until well combined.
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Add the eggs to the butter-sugar mixture, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
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Stir in the pumpkin puree, milk, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and uniform.
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Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Avoid over-mixing.
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Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
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In a small bowl, mix the 2 tablespoons of sugar with 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. Sprinkle this cinnamon sugar evenly over the top of the batter.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 55-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Note
- This bread pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea.
- For a nutty variation, consider adding a 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter.
- Pumpkin bread can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days or frozen for longer preservation.
- The cinnamon sugar topping creates a delightful crust, adding a touch of sweetness and texture.
