Pumpkin bread is one of those fall staples that never goes out of style. Whether it’s enjoyed as a breakfast treat, an afternoon snack, or a cozy dessert, the rich and spicy flavors of pumpkin bread make it the perfect companion for chilly weather. To elevate this classic treat, I’ve added a delicious maple glaze that brings just the right amount of sweetness and warmth. This pumpkin bread with maple glaze is incredibly moist, flavorful, and easy to make. You won’t be able to stop at just one slice!
Why Pumpkin Bread is a Fall Favorite
There’s something magical about the flavors of fall, and pumpkin bread is one of the most beloved recipes of the season. The earthy sweetness of pumpkin combined with warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves evokes feelings of comfort and nostalgia. Pumpkin bread is versatile enough to be served plain or dressed up with nuts, chocolate chips, or even a glaze. But the true star of this recipe is the maple glaze—it adds a luxurious touch and makes each bite extra special.
Ingredients for Pumpkin Bread with Maple Glaze
One of the best things about this recipe is how simple the ingredients are. You likely have most of these items in your pantry already, making it a quick and easy treat to whip up when the craving strikes.
For the pumpkin bread:
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar (light or dark)
- ½ cup vegetable oil (or melted coconut oil)
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup milk or buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the maple glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon milk or cream
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
Optional add-ins:
- Chopped pecans or walnuts (for extra crunch)
- Chocolate chips (for a sweeter twist)
Step-by-Step Directions
The process for making this pumpkin bread with maple glaze is straightforward. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a perfectly spiced, tender loaf ready to enjoy in no time.
1. Preheat your oven and prepare the pan.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with nonstick spray or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Combine the dry ingredients.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and salt. These spices will infuse your bread with the classic pumpkin spice flavor we all love.
3. Mix the wet ingredients.
In a separate bowl, whisk the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and oil until smooth. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the milk and vanilla extract.
4. Combine the wet and dry ingredients.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a denser bread.
5. Add optional extras (if desired).
If you’re using chopped nuts or chocolate chips, fold them gently into the batter at this stage.
6. Pour the batter into the pan and bake.
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean. The top of the bread should be golden brown, and your kitchen will smell amazing!
7. Let the bread cool.
Once baked, let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is crucial, as cooling helps the bread set and keeps it moist.
8. Prepare the maple glaze.
While the bread is cooling, prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, maple syrup, milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. The glaze should be thick but pourable—if it’s too thick, add a little more milk. If it’s too thin, add a bit more powdered sugar.
9. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled bread.
Once the bread has cooled completely, drizzle the maple glaze over the top. You can be as generous or as reserved with the glaze as you like. For an extra-special touch, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top of the glaze before it sets.
10. Slice and enjoy.
Now comes the best part—slicing into your beautiful loaf of pumpkin bread. Each bite should be moist, tender, and full of warm, spiced flavors, with the maple glaze providing just the right amount of sweetness.
Tips for the Perfect Pumpkin Bread
- Use pure pumpkin puree: Make sure you’re using pure pumpkin puree and not pumpkin pie filling, which has added sugars and spices.
- Don’t overmix the batter: Overmixing can cause the bread to become tough. Stir just until the dry ingredients are incorporated.
- Cool before glazing: Make sure the bread has cooled completely before drizzling the glaze, or it will melt and slide off the loaf.
- Customize it: Feel free to experiment with add-ins like raisins, cranberries, or white chocolate chips. This recipe is versatile and can be adapted to your taste.
Storage and Freezing Tips
Pumpkin bread is incredibly moist, so it stays fresh for several days when stored properly.
- Room temperature: Store your glazed pumpkin bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Refrigeration: To extend its shelf life, you can store the bread in the refrigerator for up to 7 days.
- Freezing: If you want to save some for later, pumpkin bread freezes well. Wrap the cooled loaf (without glaze) tightly in plastic wrap and store it in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature and glaze before serving.
Pumpkin Bread with Maple Glaze
Pumpkin bread with maple glaze is the perfect fall treat. It’s easy to make, packed with warm flavors, and ideal for sharing with friends and family. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast, a delicious snack, or a festive dessert for your holiday gatherings, this recipe hits all the right notes. With a tender crumb and a sweet, sticky glaze, it’s sure to become a new favorite in your autumn baking repertoire.