The moment the crisp fall air meets a whiff of baking spices, I find myself transported back to my grandma’s cozy kitchen. There, she would whip up her legendary Grandma’s Pumpkin Bread with Streusel, a recipe that’s become a staple in my own home. This delightful bread is not just moist and packed with the warm embrace of autumn spices; it’s also a practical choice for those busy mornings or heartwarming holiday gatherings. With a buttery streusel topping that adds a satisfying crunch and a lovely honey glaze drizzled on top, this loaf brings a touch of magic to any table. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to utilize that beloved fall pumpkin, creating a delicious alternative to fast food. Are you ready to fill your kitchen with comforting aromas and delight your taste buds? Let’s dive in!
Why is this pumpkin bread irresistible?
Moist and Fluffy: Each bite of this Grandma’s Pumpkin Bread with Streusel is a luscious mix of moisture and fluffiness, ensuring it never dries out.
Unique Flavor Profile: The combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, alongside the pumpkin, creates a warm, aromatic flavor that’s irresistible, especially during fall.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy family breakfasts, this bread appeals to everyone and is guaranteed to disappear quickly!
Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can whip this up effortlessly, making it a hidden gem in your baking repertoire.
Versatile Options: Feel free to customize by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or even swirls of cream cheese for a fun twist! After enjoying this cozy treat, don’t miss out on other pumpkin delights, like Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting for a festive dessert.
Grandma’s Pumpkin Bread with Streusel Ingredients
For the Bread
• All-purpose flour – Structural base of the bread; no need to sift, but aerate with a whisk if preferred.
• Baking soda – Helps the loaf rise; check for freshness to ensure effectiveness.
• Baking powder – A leavening agent; expired powder can lead to dense bread.
• Salt – Enhances flavors; use kosher salt if preferred.
• Ground cinnamon – Adds warmth and sweetness; fresher cinnamon enhances flavor.
• Ground nutmeg – Unique flavor booster; use freshly grated for best results.
• Ground cloves – Essential spice for depth; don’t skip this ingredient.
• Canned pumpkin puree – Provides moisture and flavor; ensure it’s pure, not pie filling.
• Vegetable oil – Adds moisture and tenderness; can use canola or any neutral oil.
• Eggs – Binds ingredients and contributes to texture; large eggs are recommended.
• White granulated sugar – Sweetness balance; combines well with brown sugar.
• Brown sugar – Provides depth of flavor; golden brown is preferred.
• Vanilla extract – Enhances sweetness and flavor depth; artificial is acceptable.
For the Streusel Topping
• Brown sugar – For sweetness and richness; use dark brown for extra flavor.
• Butter – Adds moisture and flavor; can use melted salted or unsalted.
• Flour – Essential for crumbly texture; keeps the streusel from becoming too wet.
• Ground cinnamon – Adds a warm, spiced note; makes the streusel irresistible.
For the Glaze
• Powdered sugar – Sweetens the glaze; no sifting needed unless lumpy.
• Honey – For glaze sweetness; maple syrup can be used as a twist.
Get ready to embrace the cozy flavors of fall with Grandma’s Pumpkin Bread with Streusel!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Grandma’s Pumpkin Bread with Streusel
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line the bottom with parchment paper to ensure easy removal once your delightful Grandma’s Pumpkin Bread with Streusel is baked. This preparation will prevent sticking and aid in a beautiful presentation.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon of ground nutmeg, and ¼ teaspoon of ground cloves. This blend of spices not only adds warmth but also sets the perfect flavor foundation for your pumpkin bread. Once combined, set the bowl aside.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together 1 cup of canned pumpkin puree, ½ cup of vegetable oil, 2 large eggs, 1 cup of white granulated sugar, ½ cup of brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and homogenous. The creamy consistency and vibrant color should signal that your wet ingredients are ready to mingle with the dry.
Step 4: Blend Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently with a spatula. Be careful not to overmix—your goal is a few lumps to ensure a tender loaf. As you combine, you’ll notice the batter transitioning into a luscious orange hue, reflecting the rich pumpkin flavor that will characterize your Grandma’s Pumpkin Bread with Streusel.
Step 5: Pour and Smooth the Batter
Once combined, pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, using a spatula to smooth the top evenly. This step is essential for ensuring even baking and a lovely rise. As you pour, take a moment to feel the excitement build knowing you’re about to create a comforting fall treat.
Step 6: Create the Streusel Topping
In a separate small bowl, mix together ½ cup of brown sugar, ¼ cup of melted butter, ½ cup of flour, and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon until crumbly. This streusel topping is what sets your Grandma’s Pumpkin Bread apart, adding a delightful crunch. Sprinkle it generously over the top of the batter, ensuring it’s evenly distributed for that beloved texture contrast.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Place the loaf in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. Your kitchen will soon fill with heavenly aromas, signaling that your bread is rising beautifully. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs to ensure a moist yet fluffy loaf.
Step 8: Cool and Set
After baking, allow the pumpkin bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This essential cooling period will help it firm up, making it easier to transfer. Once slightly cooled, carefully remove the bread from the pan and place it on a cooling rack to cool completely, enhancing its texture.
Step 9: Prepare the Glaze
While the bread cools, whisk together 1 cup of powdered sugar and 2 tablespoons of honey in a small bowl until smooth. The glaze will add a finishing touch to your loaf, creating a beautiful, sweet sheen.
Step 10: Drizzle and Serve
Once the bread has cooled sufficiently, drizzle the glaze over the top, allowing it to pool slightly in the crevices. Let it set for a few moments before slicing into your scrumptious Grandma’s Pumpkin Bread with Streusel, ready to enjoy with your favorite warm beverage!
What to Serve with Grandma’s Pumpkin Bread with Streusel?
The warm, inviting flavors of pumpkin bread deserve delightful companions that enhance your cozy baking experience.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Silky, buttery mashed potatoes create a comforting contrast to the sweet pumpkin bread, perfect for a fall feast.
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Warm Apple Cider: The spice-infused sweetness of apple cider perfectly complements the bread’s flavors, evoking cozy memories of autumn gatherings.
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Whipped Cream: Serve a dollop of fluffy whipped cream on the side for a creamy texture that balances the crispy streusel topping beautifully.
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Honey Butter: Slathering honey butter on warm slices transforms each bite into an indulgent treat. The sweetness echoes the glaze while adding depth.
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Spiced Chai Latte: A warming spiced chai latte connects with the aromatic spices in the bread, making for a delightful morning or afternoon pick-me-up.
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Pumpkin Soup: For a complete autumn-inspired meal, pair the bread with a hearty pumpkin soup. The flavors harmonize, creating an inviting fall dinner.
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Vanilla Yogurt: The creaminess and slight tang of vanilla yogurt serve as a refreshing contrast to the sweetness, elevating your dessert experience.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: For those with a sweet tooth, serve alongside soft chocolate chip cookies to offer a delightful mix of sweet flavors and chewy textures.
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Maple Pecan Scones: These buttery scones complement the pumpkin bread with a nutty crunch while adding another layer of warmth with maple syrup.
Each pairing offers a unique way to enjoy your Grandma’s Pumpkin Bread with Streusel, making every moment around your kitchen table truly special.
Grandma’s Pumpkin Bread with Streusel Variations
Feel free to explore your creativity by customizing this classic pumpkin bread recipe to suit your taste and dietary needs!
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Nuts: Add 1 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a delightful crunch. This extra texture complements the soft bread beautifully and elevates the overall flavor.
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Chocolate Chips: Incorporate 1 cup of semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for a sweet surprise in each slice. The chocolate adds a rich, creamy contrast that pairs wonderfully with the warm spices.
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Whole Wheat Flour: Swap out half of the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and extra fiber. This small change makes your pumpkin bread even heartier while keeping the moisture intact!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute vegetable oil with melted coconut oil and use non-dairy milk instead of regular milk in the glaze. Coconut oil imparts a light coconut flavor that pairs beautifully with the spices.
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Spiced Variations: Add 1/4 teaspoon of ginger or allspice for a different spice profile that enhances the autumnal flavors. A touch of ginger brings warmth and a subtle kick to every bite.
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Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour. This option allows those with gluten sensitivities to enjoy the comfort of Grandma’s pumpkin bread without compromising on flavor.
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Maple Syrup Glaze: Replace honey with maple syrup for the glaze for a new spin on sweetness. This twist enhances the fall flavors, making every slice extra special.
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Pumpkin Spice: For a bolder flavor, use pumpkin spice mix instead of individual spices—about 2 teaspoons will do the trick! It simplifies the spice blend while still delivering that cozy, seasonal taste.
Once you’ve tasted the joy of this comforting bread, be sure to check out other favorites such as Pumpkin Cupcakes Moist for additional seasonal baking inspiration.
Make Ahead Options
These Grandma’s Pumpkin Bread with Streusel are perfect for busy home cooks looking to simplify their meal planning! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance; simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. For the streusel topping, combine the ingredients and refrigerate it as well. When you’re ready to bake, just pour the chilled batter into the prepared loaf pan, sprinkle the cold streusel on top, and place it in the oven. This way, you’ll enjoy that delicious smell wafting through your kitchen without the last-minute rush, and your bread will taste just as delightful as if made fresh!
How to Store and Freeze Grandma’s Pumpkin Bread with Streusel
Room Temperature: Store your pumpkin bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain its moisture and fresh flavor.
Fridge: If you want to keep it longer, cover it tightly and refrigerate for up to a week. The flavors may deepen, but make sure to bring it to room temperature before serving for the best taste.
Freezer: For longer storage, slice the bread and wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw slices at room temperature or lightly toast for a warm treat.
Reheating: To enjoy later, simply reheat your Grandma’s Pumpkin Bread with Streusel in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a 350°F oven for 5-10 minutes. This will revive its heavenly aroma and flavor!
Expert Tips for Grandma’s Pumpkin Bread with Streusel
Grease and Line: Ensure your loaf pan is well-greased and lined with parchment paper for smooth removal. It prevents sticking and keeps your bread intact.
Fresh Ingredients: Always check your baking soda and powder for freshness. Expired ingredients can lead to a dense loaf instead of the light, fluffy texture you want in Grandma’s Pumpkin Bread with Streusel.
Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough bread, so keep it gentle for a tender crumb.
Cool Prior to Glazing: Allow the bread to cool slightly before drizzling the glaze. This ensures the glaze stays intact rather than melting right into the loaf.
Customization Opportunities: Feel free to add in chocolate chips or nuts for an extra crunch! Variations make this pumpkin bread versatile and fun for every season.
Grandma’s Pumpkin Bread with Streusel Recipe FAQs
What’s the best way to select pumpkin puree?
When choosing canned pumpkin puree for Grandma’s Pumpkin Bread with Streusel, ensure it’s 100% pure pumpkin and not pumpkin pie filling. Look for brands that offer a deep, rich color without any added sugars or spices. Fresh, homemade puree made from roasted pumpkin can also be used for an even richer flavor, but canned is much more convenient for busy bakers!
How should I store leftover pumpkin bread?
Store your Grandma’s Pumpkin Bread with Streusel in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it for longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for up to a week. Just remember, it’s best served at room temperature, so let it warm up a bit before digging in!
Can I freeze Grandma’s Pumpkin Bread with Streusel?
Absolutely! To freeze, slice the bread and wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped slices in a freezer bag or airtight container. Your delicious pumpkin bread can last up to 2 months in the freezer! When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature or lightly toast slices for a warm, comforting snack.
What do I do if my pumpkin bread didn’t rise?
If your Grandma’s Pumpkin Bread with Streusel didn’t rise as expected, it could be due to expired baking soda or baking powder. Always check the expiration dates before use! Additionally, make sure not to overmix the batter, as this can lead to a dense loaf. If you find your batter too thick, you can add a splash of milk to help it rise better during baking.
Is this recipe suitable for people with allergies?
While Grandma’s Pumpkin Bread with Streusel contains common allergens such as gluten (from flour) and eggs, there are ways to customize it for dietary restrictions. For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. To make it egg-free, you can use a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) for each egg. Always double-check each ingredient to ensure it is safe for anyone with allergies.
Grandma’s Pumpkin Bread with Streusel: A Cozy Autumn Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and ground cloves.
- In another bowl, whisk together canned pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, eggs, white granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently with a spatula until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top evenly.
- In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, melted butter, flour, and cinnamon until crumbly. Sprinkle over the batter.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, checking for doneness with a toothpick.
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack.
- While the bread cools, whisk together powdered sugar and honey until smooth.
- Drizzle the glaze over the cooled bread before slicing.
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