Introduction to Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Bread
Fall is the perfect season to indulge in the warm, cozy flavors of Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Bread. This delightful bake combines the rich, earthy taste of pumpkin with a heavenly cinnamon swirl that will make your taste buds dance. It’s more than just another pumpkin bread; it’s a celebration of autumn in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll fall head over heels for this recipe because it checks all the boxes: moisture, flavor, and texture. Imagine slicing into a loaf that’s not only soft and tender but also has a thick, decadent swirl of cinnamon running through it. The addition of a buttery brown sugar streusel adds the perfect crunch and a touch of sweetness, while toasted pecans bring a delightful nuttiness.
This recipe is straightforward, making it ideal for novice bakers and seasoned pros alike. Plus, the ingredients are often pantry staples; you might already have most of them on hand! Why not take a moment to fill your kitchen with the inviting aroma of fresh-baked bread? If you're looking to impress at your next gathering or simply treat yourself, this Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Bread is your answer. Get ready to enjoy a slice (or two) with your favorite cup of tea or coffee!
Ingredients for Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Bread
Creating a delicious Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Bread starts with gathering the right ingredients. Let’s break it down to make your shopping easy and efficient.
Key ingredients for the batter
The heart of this pumpkin bread lies in its rich, flavorful batter. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 ¼ cups of pure pumpkin puree — the key ingredient that makes this bread moist and delicious.
- ½ cup packed dark brown sugar and ½ cup granulated sugar — for sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 2 large eggs at room temperature — they help bind everything together.
- ⅓ cup of unsalted butter, melted — adding that irresistible buttery richness.
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour — the base for our loaf.
- Baking essentials: ¾ teaspoon baking powder, ¾ teaspoon baking soda, and ½ teaspoon salt.
- 1 ½ teaspoons of pumpkin pie spice — a delightful blend that enhances the pumpkin flavor.
- ⅔ cup whole milk — for that perfect texture.
Essential ingredients for the cinnamon swirl
No cinnamon swirl is complete without the following simple yet essential ingredients:
- ¼ cup granulated sugar — to sweeten the swirl and enhance the cinnamon flavor.
- 2 ½ teaspoons of ground cinnamon — the star that brings warmth to the dish.
- 1 tablespoon of flour — to help the swirl cling beautifully to the batter.
Topping ingredients for that perfect crunch
To finish off your Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Bread with a delightful crunch, consider this topping:
- ⅓ cup of all-purpose flour — forming the base of our streusel.
- ¼ cup packed dark brown sugar — providing a rich taste and texture.
- ¼ teaspoon of cinnamon — a touch more to harmonize with the bread.
- 3 tablespoons of cold unsalted butter — crucial for creating crumbly goodness.
- ½ cup of pecan halves — for nutty flavor and extra crunch.
With these ingredients in hand, you’re ready to whip up the most scrumptious Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Bread you’ve ever tasted! Are you ready to get baking?
Step-by-step Preparation of Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Bread
Creating a delicious Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Bread is a fun and rewarding experience that fills your kitchen with warm, inviting scents. Follow these approachable steps to craft a loaf that’s sure to impress.
Gather Your Ingredients
Before diving into the baking process, it’s crucial to have all your ingredients ready. This will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable. You’ll need:
- For the streusel topping: all-purpose flour, dark brown sugar, cinnamon, cold unsalted butter, and pecan halves.
- For the cinnamon swirl: granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and a bit of flour.
- For the pumpkin batter: pure pumpkin puree, brown sugar, granulated sugar, eggs, unsalted butter, vanilla extract, flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and pumpkin pie spice.
Having everything prepped and within reach will set you up for success!
Prepare the Streusel Topping
In a medium bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, dark brown sugar, and cinnamon. Add the cold unsalted butter, using your fingertips to blend until the mixture resembles damp crumbs. Finally, set aside the pecan halves for later. This topping will add that delightful crunchy element to your bread.
Craft the Cinnamon Swirl Mixture
Next, combine the granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and flour in a small bowl. Stir until the ingredients are well-blended. This cinnamon swirl is what will elevate your bread, creating an enticing ribbon of flavor!
Make the Pumpkin Batter
In a large mixing bowl, mix the pure pumpkin puree, melted butter, both types of sugar, vanilla extract, and eggs. Use a whisk to blend them thoroughly. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. Gently fold this dry mix into your wet ingredients. Before fully combining, add the milk, folding until everything is even.
Assemble the Layers for Pumpkin Bread
Now comes the fun part! In your prepared loaf pan, scrape one-third of the batter and spread it evenly. Sprinkle about half of your cinnamon mixture over this layer. Spoon another third of the batter over the cinnamon and spread it gently. Top it with the remaining cinnamon mixture, then finish off with the last of the batter. Finally, sprinkle your streusel topping and pecans over the top for a beautiful finish.
Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F and bake your loaf for 50-60 minutes. Keep an eye on it; when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, it’s done! Let it cool in the pan for 20 minutes before transferring it onto a wire rack.
Baking your own Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Bread not only fills your home with delightful aromas but also creates a comforting treat that friends and family will adore. Don't forget to check out more tips and variations to personalize your loaf!
Variations of Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Bread
Adding chocolate chips for a sweet twist
If you’re a chocolate lover, consider adding chocolate chips to your Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Bread. A half-cup of semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips folded into the batter will create delightful pockets of melted goodness, perfectly complementing the warm spices and pumpkin flavor. Not only does this enhance the bread’s sweetness, but it also gives it a rich, decadent quality that’s perfect for dessert or a special breakfast treat.
Including nuts for added texture
For a satisfying crunch, add your favorite nuts to the mix. Chopped walnuts or pecans work beautifully in this Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Bread, lending a nutty flavor and delightful texture. You can mix them into the batter or sprinkle them over the top before baking to create a delightful contrast. Plus, nuts are a great source of healthy fats, adding a nutritious boost to your already scrumptious bread! Want more inspiration? Check out this guide on nut varieties to find your perfect match.
Cooking Tips and Notes for Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Bread
Tips for achieving the perfect texture
For a deliciously moist Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Bread, use fresh, pure pumpkin puree rather than canned. Also, be careful not to overmix the batter; gentle folding helps maintain a light, airy texture. If you like a bit of crunch, consider toasting your pecans before adding them to the batter for an extra layer of flavor.
Common pitfalls to avoid
One common mistake is not measuring your ingredients accurately. Using a kitchen scale can help ensure precision, particularly with flour. Additionally, avoid opening the oven door too early, as this can cause the bread to sink. Wait until it’s close to the end of the baking time to check for doneness with a toothpick.
For more baking tips, check out King Arthur Baking for resources and expert advice!
Serving Suggestions for Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Bread
Perfect Pairings with Beverages
To elevate your Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Bread experience, consider enjoying it with a cozy cup of spiced chai or rich hot cocoa. The warmth of chai complements the cinnamon swirl perfectly, while hot cocoa adds a touch of indulgence. For a refreshing option, try pairing it with a glass of cold brew coffee or chai latte; both will enhance the bread's flavors and provide that much-needed energy boost.
Enjoy it as a Breakfast or Snack
This delightful bread shines as both a morning treat and an afternoon snack. Slice it thick and serve with a smear of cream cheese or a pat of butter for extra richness. Not feeling decadent? Enjoy a slice plain, appreciating its moist texture and spiced flavor. Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Bread also pairs beautifully with Turkey Bacon or Chicken Ham for a heartier breakfast option. Whatever time of day, it’s sure to satisfy!
Time Breakdown for Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Bread
Preparation time
You’ll need about 10 minutes to gather your ingredients and prepare the delicious layers of this Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Bread. Don’t rush—it’s all about those perfect swirls and the crumbly topping!
Baking time
Once your loaf is prepped, pop it in the oven for 50-60 minutes. This is the magical time when your kitchen will fill with the delightful aroma of pumpkin and spices. Trust me, you’ll be counting down the minutes!
Total time
In total, plan for about 1 hour and 10 minutes from prep to a beautifully baked loaf. The best part? There's a rewarding cooling period that allows you to prepare the optional maple glaze or sneak a taste of your creation!
For more tips on baking the perfect pumpkin bread, check out this article on pumpkin baking and elevate your baking game!
Nutritional Facts for Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Bread
Calories per slice
Each slice of this Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Bread packs approximately 210 calories. It’s a perfect balance for a delicious treat that won’t derail your healthy eating goals.
Key nutrients
In addition to its satisfying taste, this bread offers some key nutritional benefits:
- Sugar: About 12 grams per slice, primarily from granulated and brown sugars.
- Fat: Roughly 8 grams, derived from unsalted butter and the pecans in the streusel topping.
- Protein: You’ll find around 3 grams, thanks to the eggs and flour.
This Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Bread is a delightful way to enjoy the flavors of fall while sneaking in some nutrients! Pair it with a warm beverage for an extra cozy moment. Need more insights? Explore MyFitnessPal for a deeper dive into food tracking and nutritional information for your favorite recipes!
FAQs about Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Bread
Can I substitute pumpkin puree with something else?
Absolutely! While pumpkin puree gives this Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Bread its distinct flavor and moisture, you can substitute it with sweet potato puree or butternut squash puree for a similar texture and sweetness. Just make sure to use a puree, not pie filling, to keep the flavors authentic.
How do I store leftovers?
To keep your Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Bread fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer shelf life, you can refrigerate it for up to a week or freeze slices wrapped in plastic wrap and then foil for about three months. Just thaw at room temperature when you're ready to indulge!
Can I make this bread gluten-free?
Yes, you can! Swap out the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to check the flour blend's ingredients to avoid any weird textures. Your Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Bread will still be delightful and just as moist!
Want to learn more about baking substitutions? Check out Serious Eats' guide for expert tips!
Conclusion on Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Bread
In summary, this Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Bread is a delightful treat that captures the essence of fall. Its moist texture, sweet cinnamon swirl, and crunchy pecans make it the ideal accompaniment for your morning coffee or a cozy afternoon snack. Don't miss out—bake this bread and enjoy every slice!
Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Bread
Equipment
- 9x5-inch loaf pan
- medium bowl
- large bowl
- whisk
- small offset spatula
Ingredients
Streusel topping
- ⅓ cup all-purpose flour 50g
- ¼ cup packed dark brown sugar 55g
- ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
- 3 tablespoon cold unsalted butter 42g
- ½ cup pecan halves reserve for later
Cinnamon swirl
- ¼ cup granulated sugar 50g
- 2.5 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon flour 9g
Pumpkin batter
- 1 ¼ cup pure pumpkin puree 300ml
- ½ cup packed dark brown sugar 110g
- ½ cup granulated sugar 100g
- 2 large eggs at room temperature
- ⅓ cup unsalted butter melted, 75g
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract 5ml
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour 250g
- ¾ teaspoon baking powder
- ¾ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 ½ teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- ⅔ cup whole milk 160ml
Maple glaze (optional)
- 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup 15ml
- 1 tablespoon whole milk 15ml
- ¼ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- ½ cup powdered sugar 60g
- pinch salt
Instructions
Streusel Topping
- Make the streusel topping. Combine flour, brown sugar, cinnamon and butter in a medium bowl and blend together well with your fingertips until evenly combined and it looks like damp crumbs. Reserve the pecans for later and set aside.
Cinnamon Swirl
- Make the cinnamon swirl. Combine all ingredients until evenly blended.
Pumpkin Batter
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Line a 9x5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.
- Make the pumpkin batter. Combine pumpkin puree, melted butter, both sugars, vanilla and eggs in a large bowl and whisk to blend well.
- Sift together flour, baking powder, baking soda, pumpkin spice and salt and whisk to blend evenly. Add it to the wet mixture and fold it in gently. Before all of the flour is incorporated, add the milk and continue to fold gently until evenly combined.
- Scrape one-third of the batter into prepared pan and spread it out evenly using a small offset spatula. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar mixture (about 2 ½ tbsp) evenly over the surface. Spoon half of the remaining batter (another third of the batter) over the cinnamon sugar and gently spread it out with the small offset spatula applying a bit of pressure to help it stick to the sugar instead of lifting it up. Spoon the rest of the batter over the cinnamon sugar and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle half of the crumble over the surface then scatter the pecans over top. Finally, sprinkle on the rest of the crumble.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes until it feels firm in the middle and skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the loaf cool for 20 minutes in the pan and then use the over-hanging parchment paper to lift it out onto a wire rack and let it finish cooling.
Maple Glaze
- Make the maple glaze. Combine all ingredients in a small bowl and whisk until smooth. Drizzle it over the cooled loaf and let set for a few minutes before slicing.
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