Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
This Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is the perfect treat for fall. With its moist texture, rich pumpkin flavor, and delightful spice blend, this pumpkin bread stands out as a comforting favorite. Itβs versatile enough to serve as a cozy breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a charming dessert at gatherings. The sweet and creamy cream cheese frosting adds a delicious touch that elevates this loaf to something truly special.
Why Youβll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, you can whip up this pumpkin bread in no time.
- Deliciously Moist: The combination of pumpkin puree and spices ensures every bite is packed with flavor and moisture.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether itβs a holiday gathering or a casual brunch, this bread fits right in.
- Customizable Toppings: You can easily adjust the cream cheese frosting or add nuts and chocolate chips for extra texture.
- Kid-Friendly Treat: This recipe is sure to please both kids and adults alike!
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the baking process, gather your tools to ensure a smooth experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
- Rubber spatula
- Loaf pan (9Γ5)
- Oven
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without any mess.
- Whisk: Helps blend ingredients thoroughly for a smooth batter.
- Loaf pan: The perfect shape for baking your pumpkin bread evenly.

Ingredients
To create this delightful Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting, youβll need the following ingredients:
For the Pumpkin Bread
- 2 cups (240 g) all purpose flour
- 1 tsp (6 g) baking soda
- 2 tsp (6 g) ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- Β½ tsp ground nutmeg
- Β½ tsp ground cloves
- ΒΌ tsp ground cardamom
- Β½ tsp salt
- Β½ cup (118 ml) canola oil
- ΒΎ cup (150 g) granulated sugar
- Β½ cup (100 g) light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs (US), room temperature
- 1ΒΌ cup (325 g) canned pumpkin puree
- 2 tsp (10 ml) vanilla extract
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- 4 oz. (113 g) cream cheese, room temperature
- 4 tbsp (57 g) unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1 tsp (5 ml) vanilla extract
- 1 cup (125 g) powdered sugar
- 1-3 tsp (5-15 ml) milk, as needed
How to Make Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C). This ensures your pumpkin bread will bake evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Loaf Pan
Grease your 9Γ5 loaf pan with butter or cooking spray. This will help prevent sticking when you remove the bread later.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together:
1. All-purpose flour
2. Baking soda
3. Ground cinnamon
4. Ground ginger
5. Ground nutmeg
6. Ground cloves
7. Ground cardamom
8. Salt
Set aside once well combined.
Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, mix:
1. Canola oil
2. Granulated sugar
3. Light brown sugar
4. Eggs
5. Pumpkin puree
6. Vanilla extract
Use a whisk until smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet ingredients. Stir gently until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender.
Step 6: Bake the Bread
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake in the preheated oven for about 55 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean from the center.
Step 7: Cool Down
Once baked, let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 8: Make Cream Cheese Frosting
In a mixing bowl, beat together:
1. Room temperature cream cheese
2. Unsalted butter
3. Vanilla extract
Slowly add powdered sugar until well mixed. Adjust consistency with milk if necessary.
Step 9: Frost Your Bread
Once your pumpkin bread has cooled completely, spread an even layer of cream cheese frosting on top before slicing and serving.
Enjoy your delicious Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting!
How to Serve Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Serving Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting can elevate your fall gatherings or cozy breakfasts. This delicious bread pairs wonderfully with various accompaniments and beverages to enhance its flavors.
Pair with Coffee
- A warm cup of coffee complements the sweet and spiced notes of pumpkin bread, creating a perfect breakfast experience.
Enjoy with Tea
- A soothing cup of herbal or chai tea can balance the richness of the cream cheese frosting for a delightful afternoon snack.
Serve with Fresh Fruit
- Fresh slices of apple or pear add a refreshing crunch that contrasts nicely with the soft texture of the pumpkin bread.
Add a Scoop of Ice Cream
- Vanilla or caramel ice cream on top transforms your pumpkin bread into an indulgent dessert treat, perfect for special occasions.
Top with Whipped Cream
- Lightly whipped cream adds a fluffy texture that enhances the creamy frosting and gives an extra touch of sweetness.
Create a Bread Pudding
- Transform leftover pumpkin bread into a warm bread pudding, drizzled with a bit more cream cheese frosting for added flavor.
How to Perfect Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
To ensure your Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting turns out perfectly moist and flavorful, consider these helpful tips.
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Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing eggs and cream cheese to room temperature helps them blend better, resulting in a smoother batter and frosting.
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Donβt overmix the batter: Mixing just until combined prevents gluten development, keeping your bread tender and moist.
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Test for doneness: Insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean or with a few crumbs attached. Overbaking can dry out your bread.
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Cool completely before frosting: Let your pumpkin bread cool completely to prevent the cream cheese frosting from melting off.
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Adjust sweetness as needed: Taste your frosting; feel free to add more powdered sugar if you prefer it sweeter.
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Store properly: Keep leftover pumpkin bread covered at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting is versatile and pairs well with several side dishes that enhance its flavors. Here are some great options:
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Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer Greek yogurt with granola and seasonal fruits for a healthy contrast to the sweetness of the bread.
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Cinnamon Sugar Pecans: These crunchy nuts add an extra layer of spice and texture that complements the pumpkin flavor beautifully.
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Chia Seed Pudding: A creamy chia seed pudding can provide a nutritious side that balances the richness of the pumpkin bread.
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Maple Glazed Carrots: Sweet glazed carrots bring an earthy sweetness that pairs well with spiced desserts like pumpkin bread.
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Savory Quiche: A slice of quiche offers a savory contrast that creates a delightful balance when served alongside sweet pumpkin bread.
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SautΓ©ed Greens: Lightly sautΓ©ed spinach or kale adds color and nutrients, making for an excellent savory side dish option.
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Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad brings brightness and acidity to cut through the richness of both the bread and frosting.
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Cheese Board: An assortment of cheeses provides a rich, creamy counterpart that enhances the overall flavor profile when enjoyed together.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting, itβs easy to overlook a few key details. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.
- Using cold ingredients: Cold eggs and cream cheese can lead to uneven mixing. Always use room temperature ingredients for a smoother batter.
- Skipping the spice mix: Missing out on spices will result in bland bread. Make sure to measure your spices accurately and donβt skip any.
- Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can make the bread dense. Mix until just combined for a light, fluffy texture.
- Not checking for doneness: Relying solely on time can lead to undercooked or overcooked bread. Use a toothpick inserted into the center; it should come out clean when done.
- Neglecting frosting consistency: If your cream cheese frosting is too thick, it wonβt spread well. Adjust its consistency with milk until you reach your desired thickness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover pumpkin bread in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
- Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and then foil for extra protection.
- It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350Β°F (175Β°C) and heat for about 10 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out.
- Microwave: Heat slices for about 15-20 seconds until warm, but avoid overheating as this can dry it out.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat, cover with a lid, and warm each side for about 2-3 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common queries regarding the Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe that may help you along the way.
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes! You can use fresh pumpkin puree; just ensure itβs well-pureed and not too watery.
How do I make my Pumpkin Bread more flavorful?
Consider adding nuts or chocolate chips for additional texture and flavor. A bit of orange zest can also elevate taste!
Can I substitute other frostings?
Absolutely! Feel free to try other frostings like vanilla buttercream or whip up a simple glaze if you prefer something lighter.
How long does the cream cheese frosting last?
The frosting can stay fresh in the fridge for about one week when stored properly in an airtight container.
Final Thoughts
This Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is not only moist and flavorful but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or even experimenting with different frostings. Whether you serve it as breakfast or dessert, itβs sure to impress your family and friends. Donβt hesitateβgive this recipe a try today!
Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting
Indulge in the warmth of fall with this delightful Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe. This moist, spiced pumpkin loaf is a true seasonal treat, perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. The rich pumpkin flavor combined with aromatic spices creates a comforting experience that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting, this recipe is versatile enough to impress at any gathering or cozy up your morning routine.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: Makes approximately 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- Β½ tsp ground nutmeg
- Β½ tsp ground cloves
- ΒΌ tsp ground cardamom
- Β½ tsp salt
- Β½ cup canola oil
- ΒΎ cup granulated sugar
- Β½ cup light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1ΒΌ cup canned pumpkin puree
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 4 oz cream cheese, room temperature
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1–3 tsp milk, as needed
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C). Grease a 9×5 loaf pan.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, spices, and salt.
- In another bowl, mix oil, sugars, eggs, pumpkin puree, and vanilla until smooth.
- Gradually combine dry ingredients into wet mixture until just mixed.
- Pour batter into the loaf pan and bake for about 55 minutes.
- Let cool before frosting: beat cream cheese and butter, add powdered sugar gradually until creamy.
- Frost cooled bread and serve.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (70g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
