As autumn settles in, the scent of cinnamon and nutmeg dances in the air, whispering of cozy afternoons and kitchen adventures. Let me introduce you to Libby’s Pumpkin Bread—a delightful quick bread that has become my go-to recipe when the leaves turn and the temperatures drop. This moist loaf, made simple with canned pumpkin puree, comes together effortlessly, making it a busy home chef’s dream. Whether you’re looking for a simple breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a sweet treat to share with friends, this recipe ticks all the boxes. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—adding chocolate chips or nuts can elevate it even further! Ready to fill your kitchen with those irresistible fall aromas while creating something truly special? Let’s dive in!
Why is Libby’s Pumpkin Bread a must-bake?
Moist and Flavorful: This pumpkin bread is renowned for its incredible moistness and the warm flavors of cinnamon and nutmeg, making each bite feel like a warm hug.
Effortless Preparation: With just basic ingredients and a few simple steps, you’ll be savoring your delicious creation in no time.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s breakfast, snack time, or dessert, this recipe fits effortlessly into your day and is sure to impress anyone you share it with.
Customizable: Feel free to add chocolate chips or nuts for a delightful twist—check out my Brown Butter Pumpkin for another indulgent treat!
Great for Meal Prep: Make a batch ahead of time, store it, and enjoy it throughout the week—perfect for busy schedules!
Get ready for the cozy aromas of fall as you whip up this sublime treat; it’s bound to become a beloved staple in your kitchen!
LIBBY’S Pumpkin Bread Ingredients
For the Batter
- All-purpose flour – Provides structure and texture.
Substitution: Whole wheat flour can be used for a heartier bread, but may affect tenderness. - Granulated sugar – Adds sweetness to balance the spices.
Note: Adjust the sugar to taste or substitute with a sugar alternative. - Baking soda – Acts as a leavening agent for a light texture.
Ensure it’s fresh for best results. - Table salt – Enhances flavor.
No substitutions; essential for flavor balance. - Ground cinnamon – Offers warm, spicy flavor characteristic of fall.
Substitution: Pumpkin pie spice can replace cinnamon for a more complex spice blend. - Ground nutmeg – Adds depth and autumnal flavor.
Freshly grated nutmeg is preferred but use pre-ground if necessary. - Vegetable oil – Keeps the bread moist and tender.
Substitution: Canola or melted coconut oil works well; for a richer flavor, consider using melted butter. - Large eggs – Help with structure and moisture.
Substitution: 1/4 cup applesauce can be used as an egg substitute for a vegan option. - Water – Helps to incorporate the dry ingredients into a batter.
Can be omitted if the pumpkin puree is sufficiently moist. - Canned pumpkin puree – The star ingredient providing moisture and flavor.
Use 100% pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling.
Enjoy making your LIBBY’S Pumpkin Bread!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for LIBBY’S Pumpkin Bread
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare Pans
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats up, grease your mini or large loaf pans generously with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking. Consider dusting them with a light sprinkling of flour for an extra layer of protection. This step is crucial to ensure your LIBBY’S Pumpkin Bread releases easily once baked.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, table salt, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. Whisk these dry ingredients thoroughly until they are evenly mixed, and you see no lumps. This ensures a harmonious blend of flavors throughout your pumpkin bread, setting the stage for a delightful taste experience.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
Next, create a well in the center of the dry mix. Pour in the vegetable oil, crack in the large eggs, and add the water. Using a spatula or wooden spoon, stir gently until everything is just combined, being careful not to overmix. The batter will still appear slightly lumpy, which is perfect for our LIBBY’S Pumpkin Bread.
Step 4: Incorporate Pumpkin Puree
Now it’s time to fold in the star of the show—canned pumpkin puree. Gently add it to the mixture and fold it in until your batter is uniformly orange and all ingredients are well blended. This addition will give your bread the delicious moisture it’s known for while enhancing the flavor profile of your LIBBY’S Pumpkin Bread.
Step 5: Pour Batter into Pans
Divide the thick batter evenly between the prepared loaf pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula, making sure they are level to ensure even baking. The generous amount of batter will rise beautifully, creating a lovely dome on your LIBBY’S Pumpkin Bread as it bakes in the oven.
Step 6: Bake the Bread
Place the loaf pans in the preheated oven and bake. For mini loaves, aim for about 30 minutes, while the large loaf may require about 55 minutes. Keep an eye on them, and you’ll know they’re ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the pans from the oven and let them cool in the pans for 10 minutes. This resting period helps the bread firm up a bit, making it easier to remove. Afterward, gently transfer the loaves to a wire rack to cool completely—this allows for optimal slicing and flavor enhancement of your delicious LIBBY’S Pumpkin Bread.
Storage Tips for LIBBY’S Pumpkin Bread
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Room Temperature: Store wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This keeps the loaf moist and delicious!
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Fridge: If you want to extend storage, refrigerate for up to a week. Just be sure it’s tightly wrapped to prevent drying out.
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Freezer: Freeze slices of your LIBBY’S Pumpkin Bread for up to 3 months. Wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag for easy access.
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Thawing: Thaw frozen slices at room temperature or pop them in the toaster straight from the freezer for a quick treat!
LIBBY’S Pumpkin Bread Variations
Feel free to customize this delightful recipe to suit your taste and dietary needs!
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Chocolate Chip: Stir in a cup of chocolate chips for a sweet surprise that makes each bite even more indulgent. The melty chocolate pairs beautifully with the spiced pumpkin, creating a dessert-like treat.
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Nuts Galore: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch. The nutty flavor enhances the autumn vibes and provides a contrast to the soft texture of the bread.
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Dried Fruit: Toss in raisins or cranberries for a touch of sweetness and chewiness. They bring a lovely depth of flavor and add a festive touch, perfect for sharing during the holidays.
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Dairy-Free: Replace the vegetable oil with melted coconut oil, and use a plant-based milk instead of water for a dairy-free option. This substitution offers a subtle hint of coconut flavor while keeping the bread moist.
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Spiced Up: Elevate the flavors even more by adding a teaspoon of ginger or allspice to the mix. These spices will add warmth and create an aromatic loaf that envelops your kitchen in the essence of fall.
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Buttermilk Boost: Swap the water for buttermilk to create a richer, more flavorful batter. Buttermilk can bring a delightful tanginess that complements the sweet pumpkin beautifully, yielding an even moister bread.
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Streusel Topping: Sprinkle a simple cinnamon streusel on top before baking for a crunchy texture contrast. This can turn your loaf into a special brunch item that looks as good as it tastes—just wait until you see the golden, crumbly topping!
Inspired by this recipe? Don’t forget to check out my Pumpkin Cupcakes Moist or Baked Pumpkin Goat for more autumn flavors!
Expert Tips for LIBBY’S Pumpkin Bread
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Mix Gently: Avoid overmixing the batter; stir only until you no longer see dry flour. This keeps your LIBBY’S Pumpkin Bread tender and light.
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Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your baking soda is fresh; stale leavening agents can prevent your bread from rising properly and result in a dense loaf.
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Proper Greasing: Grease your pans well, and consider dusting with flour to prevent sticking. This simple step makes removing your bread a breeze!
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Cool Completely: Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing for cleaner pieces and to enhance flavor. Each slice should display that lovely, moist crumb.
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Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick to test for doneness; aim for moist crumbs, not wet batter. This ensures your LIBBY’S Pumpkin Bread has the perfect texture.
What to Serve with Libby’s Pumpkin Bread
As you indulge in Libby’s Pumpkin Bread, imagine the warmth of cozy gatherings and the laughter of loved ones surrounding you.
- Warm Spiced Chai: The aromatic spices in chai beautifully complement the warm flavors of pumpkin, creating a comforting pairing for chilly days.
- Creamy Cream Cheese Spread: Spread a layer of tangy cream cheese on your pumpkin bread—a delightful balance of rich and sweet.
- Savory Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs make for a hearty breakfast alongside this sweet loaf, adding a nice contrast in flavor and texture.
- Maple Glaze: Drizzle a simple maple glaze over your slices for an extra touch of sweetness—perfect for those who crave a bit more indulgence.
- Cranberry Sauce: This tart sauce brightens the palate and balances the rich pumpkin flavors, adding a festive touch to your meal.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Serving warm slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream creates a heavenly dessert experience that’s hard to resist.
- Coffee or Espresso: A rich cup of coffee or espresso brings out the aromatic spices in the bread and keeps your energy up during afternoon gatherings.
- Nutty Granola: Pairing with a side of nutty granola or yogurt can add crunch and health benefits, making it a delightful breakfast option.
- Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad, featuring seasonal fruits like pears and apples, brings brightness and a refreshing contrast to the sweet bread.
Make Ahead Options
Libby’s Pumpkin Bread is an absolute gem for meal prep! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance—simply mix your dry and wet ingredients separately, refrigerating the wet mixture until you’re ready to combine. Additionally, the baked bread can be stored at room temperature for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months, ensuring you have this cozy treat ready whenever a craving strikes. When you’re set to enjoy it, just slice and serve, or warm it up in the oven for that fresh-out-of-the-bakery experience. This not only saves you time during busy weeks but also keeps Libby’s Pumpkin Bread just as delicious as the day it was baked!
LIBBY’S Pumpkin Bread Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe canned pumpkin for the best flavor?
Absolutely! When choosing canned pumpkin for your LIBBY’S Pumpkin Bread, look for 100% pure pumpkin puree without added sugars or spices. The ingredient list should simply say “pumpkin.” This ensures you’re getting the best flavor and texture for your bread.
How should I store my LIBBY’S Pumpkin Bread?
For optimal freshness, wrap your LIBBY’S Pumpkin Bread in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate it (tightly wrapped) for up to a week. This way, you can enjoy its delightful flavors even after a few days!
Can I freeze LIBBY’S Pumpkin Bread? If so, how?
Yes, you can absolutely freeze LIBBY’S Pumpkin Bread! Slice it first, as this makes it easier to thaw only what you need. Wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap, then place the slices in a freezer bag. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or toast straight from the freezer for a warm treat!
What are common problems I might face while making LIBBY’S Pumpkin Bread?
If your LIBBY’S Pumpkin Bread turns out too dense, you might have overmixed the batter or used old baking soda. To prevent this, mix just until the dry ingredients are incorporated and ensure your baking soda is fresh. If you find your bread has sunken in the middle, it’s likely due to underbaking, so make sure to test for doneness with a toothpick; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Can I make LIBBY’S Pumpkin Bread healthier?
Very! You can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour for added fiber, or use unsweetened applesauce instead of some or all of the vegetable oil to decrease fat content. If you have dietary restrictions, consider using flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water equals one egg) for a vegan version, or opt for a sugar alternative if you’re watching your sugar intake.
Are there any allergens in LIBBY’S Pumpkin Bread I should be aware of?
Definitely! This recipe contains eggs, gluten (from the flour), and may also contain allergens depending on added ingredients like nuts or chocolate chips. If serving to others, check for any known allergies and consider offering alternatives, such as gluten-free flour or egg substitutes, to ensure everyone can enjoy a slice of this cozy fall treat.
Libby's Pumpkin Bread: The Ultimate Cozy Fall Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your loaf pans with butter or cooking spray.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, table salt, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. Whisk until no lumps remain.
- Create a well in the center of the dry mix, pour in the vegetable oil, crack in the eggs, and add the water. Stir until just combined; the batter will appear slightly lumpy.
- Fold in the canned pumpkin puree until the batter is uniformly mixed.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared loaf pans and smooth the tops.
- Place the loaf pans in the preheated oven and bake. Mini loaves take about 30 minutes, while large loaves take about 55 minutes. Test with a toothpick for doneness.
- Remove from the oven, let the loaves cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
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