There’s nothing quite like the smell of pumpkin bread baking in the oven on a crisp autumn day. The Downeast Maine Pumpkin Bread Recipe 🎃 is a seasonal classic that brings together warm spices, tender texture, and rich pumpkin flavor. Whether you’re baking it for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack, this easy recipe is guaranteed to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Moist and Flavorful: Packed with pumpkin puree and warming spices.
• Easy to Make: Perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Great for Sharing: Makes two loaves, so there’s plenty to share.
• Versatile: Enjoy it plain, with butter, or even as a dessert topped with cream cheese frosting.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you need to create this delicious pumpkin bread:

Ingredient	Quantity
Pumpkin puree	1 (15-ounce) can
Large eggs	4
Vegetable oil	1 cup
Water	⅔ cup
White sugar	3 cups
All-purpose flour	3 ½ cups
Baking soda	2 teaspoons
Salt	1 ½ teaspoons
Ground cinnamon	1 teaspoon
Ground nutmeg	1 teaspoon
Ground cloves	½ teaspoon
Ground ginger	¼ teaspoon

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare Your Ingredients

• Gather all ingredients and preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Grease and flour two 9×5-inch loaf pans to prevent sticking.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients

• In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger.

3. Blend the Wet Ingredients

• In a separate bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, eggs, oil, water, and sugar. Mix until well blended and smooth.

4. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

• Gradually stir the dry mixture into the wet mixture, mixing just until blended. Be careful not to overmix, as this can affect the bread’s texture.

5. Pour into Loaf Pans

• Divide the batter evenly between the prepared loaf pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula.

6. Bake the Bread

• Place the pans in the preheated oven and bake for about 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
• Remove from the oven and let the loaves cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips for the Best Pumpkin Bread

1. Use High-Quality Pumpkin Puree

• Opt for canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling) for the best flavor and consistency.

2. Don’t Overmix

• Stir the batter just until the dry ingredients are incorporated to avoid a dense texture.

3. Adjust the Spices

• Feel free to customize the spice blend to your taste. Add more cinnamon or ginger for extra warmth.

4. Add Mix-Ins

• Fold in ½ cup of chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried cranberries for added texture and flavor.

5. Store Properly

• Wrap the cooled loaves tightly in plastic wrap and store at room temperature for up to 4 days. You can also freeze the bread for up to 3 months.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Per Serving (Approx.)
Calories	250
Total Fat	10g
Saturated Fat	2g
Carbohydrates	38g
Sugar	25g
Protein	3g
Sodium	150mg

(Note: Nutritional values are estimates and may vary depending on specific ingredients.)

FAQs About Downeast Maine Pumpkin Bread

1. Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes! You can substitute canned pumpkin puree with an equal amount of homemade pumpkin puree. Just ensure it’s well-drained and smooth.

2. How do I prevent the bread from becoming too dense?

Avoid overmixing the batter and ensure your baking soda is fresh for proper rising.

3. Can I make muffins instead of loaves?

Absolutely! Divide the batter into muffin tins and bake at 350°F for 18-22 minutes.

4. What’s the best way to freeze pumpkin bread?

Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

5. Can I reduce the sugar?

Yes, you can reduce the sugar to 2 cups for a less sweet version. Consider adding mix-ins like chocolate chips for added sweetness.

6. How do I know when the bread is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, the bread is ready.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

The Downeast Maine Pumpkin Bread Recipe 🎃 is a true celebration of fall flavors. Its moist texture, warm spices, and rich pumpkin taste make it a go-to treat for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday gathering, enjoying it with your morning coffee, or gifting it to loved ones, this recipe never disappoints.

Ready to Bake Your Own Pumpkin Bread?

Gather your ingredients and preheat your oven! This easy and moist pumpkin bread recipe is sure to fill your home with the comforting aroma of fall. Share your creation with friends and family, and let the flavors of the season shine. Discover More Baking Recipes for additional inspiration and ideas!

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