As the crisp air ushers in the beauty of fall, there’s something truly enchanting about cozying up with a slice of warm Pumpkin Spice Loaf. The moment you pull this delicious bread from the oven, your kitchen fills with the comforting scents of cinnamon and nutmeg, wrapping you in a nostalgic embrace. It’s the perfect blend of moisture and flavor, making it an ideal companion for chilly brunches or quiet afternoons with a steaming cup of coffee. And the best part? You don’t need any fancy gadgets to whip this up—just a few simple bowls and a whisk, making it a delightful addition to your homemade fall baking repertoire. Let’s dive into creating this seasonal treasure that’s sure to impress friends and family alike!

Why is Pumpkin Spice Loaf a Fall Favorite?

Warm, Inviting Aromas: The moment you bake this loaf, it fills your kitchen with the irresistible scents of pumpkin and spices, transforming your home into a cozy haven.

Moist, Flavorful Texture: Each slice offers a soft, tender crumb that is perfectly complemented by the rich, spiced flavor—like a warm hug on a chilly day.

No Fancy Equipment: You’ll need just a few mixing bowls and a whisk, making this recipe accessible for everyone, from novice bakers to seasoned pros.

Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a festive brunch with friends or a quiet afternoon snack, this loaf is versatile enough to fit into any fall gathering.

Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Your friends and family will be asking for seconds with this delicious treat. For more scrumptious ideas, consider checking out our cozy fall baking recipes!

Pumpkin Spice Loaf Ingredients

For the Loaf
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; swap for gluten-free flour for a gluten-free delight.
• Pumpkin Pie Spice – Delivers that signature fall flavor; a homemade blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger works too!
• Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent for a delightful rise.
• Baking Soda – Helps to aerate the loaf in conjunction with acidic ingredients.
• Salt – Elevates flavor and balances sweetness beautifully.
• Butter (softened) – Ensures richness and moisture; unsalted is preferred to control the saltiness.
• Pumpkin Puree – The star ingredient adds moisture and flavor; canned or fresh homemade puree works wonderfully.
• Brown Sugar – Infuses moisture and depth; coconut sugar makes a great alternative.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens and creates a tender crumb for the loaf.
• Eggs – Essential for structure and moisture; use flax eggs for a vegan option.
• Sour Cream – Enhances moisture and adds a tang while contributing to an amazing texture; Greek yogurt is a fine substitute.
• Vanilla Extract – Introduces aromatic sweetness; you can skip it for a pure pumpkin taste.
• Pepitas (optional topping) – Adds a lovely crunch and visual appeal; feel free to swap with nuts or leave it off.

This Pumpkin Spice Loaf is sure to fill your home with delightful scents and flavors this fall!

How to Make Pumpkin Spice Loaf

Preheat: Start by preheating your oven to 350ºF (175ºC). Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan with softened butter and line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.
Whisk Dry Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This mix will be the flavorful foundation of your loaf.
Cream Butter and Sugars: In a separate large bowl, cream together your softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until it becomes light and fluffy. This will give your loaf that delightful moisture and sweetness.
Add Eggs and Wet Ingredients: Incorporate the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Then, mix in the sour cream, pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract until everything is wonderfully blended.
Combine Mixtures: Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined; be careful not to overmix, or your loaf won’t be as tender and fluffy.
Pour and Prepare for Baking: Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan. If you’re using pepitas as a topping, sprinkle them on the surface. This adds both crunch and a lovely presentation.
Bake: Place the loaf in the oven and bake for 40-50 minutes. Check for doneness with a toothpick; it should come out clean when inserted into the center.
Cool and Slice: Once baked, allow the loaf to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. Carefully lift it out using the parchment paper, and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!

Optional: Drizzle with cream cheese icing for an extra decadent touch.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Pumpkin Spice Loaf?

Cozy fall moments are best enjoyed with delicious pairings that elevate your homemade loaf!

Creamy Cream Cheese Frosting: A spread of this tangy frosting adds a luscious layer of richness that perfectly complements the spices in the loaf.
Warm Spiced Apple Cider: The aromatic cinnamon and nutmeg in hot cider harmonize beautifully with the flavors of the loaf, creating a nostalgic autumn experience.
Crisp Green Apples: Sliced apples add a refreshing crunch and refreshing sweetness, balancing the warm spices of the pumpkin loaf for a delightful contrast.
Chai Tea: This warm, spiced drink enhances the cozy vibe, offering a perfect pairing for affable conversations on a chilly day.
Toasted Pecans: The nutty crunch adds a delightful texture and earthy flavor to each slice, making your pumpkin loaf even more satisfying.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream takes the indulgence up a notch—imagine the warm loaf melting into the ice cream, creating a dreamy combo!

Indulging in these cozy pairings will turn your pumpkin spice loaf moment into a delightful, heartwarming experience.

How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Spice Loaf

Room Temperature: Store your Pumpkin Spice Loaf in an airtight container to keep it moist for up to 3-4 days. Enjoy it at room temperature or slightly warmed for the best flavor.

Fridge: If you live in a particularly humid area, you might choose to refrigerate the loaf. It can last up to a week in the fridge, wrapped tightly to prevent drying out.

Freezer: To extend freshness, freeze your loaf for up to 3 months. Wrap it securely in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer bag, removing as much air as possible.

Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy, let it thaw in the fridge overnight. To warm it up, slice and pop it in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or enjoy it toasted!

Expert Tips for Pumpkin Spice Loaf

Avoid Overmixing: Be gentle when folding wet and dry ingredients together. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf instead of the light, airy texture you want.
Check Doneness with Care: Use a toothpick to test if the loaf is done. It should come out clean, with no wet batter attached. This ensures a perfectly baked Pumpkin Spice Loaf!
Cool Before Slicing: Allow your loaf to cool completely in the pan before slicing. This helps maintain its shape and prevents it from crumbling when cut.
Storage Solutions: Keep the loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days, or wrap slices individually and freeze for later enjoyment without losing freshness.
Customize Your Spices: Feel free to experiment with additional spices like ground ginger or cloves to elevate the flavor profile of your Pumpkin Spice Loaf.

Make Ahead Options

These Pumpkin Spice Loaf preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time. You can prepare the dry ingredients (flour, spices, baking powder, baking soda, and salt) and store them in an airtight container up to 3 days in advance, allowing you to whip up the batter with minimal effort when you’re ready. Additionally, you can mix the wet ingredients (butter, sugars, eggs, sour cream, pumpkin puree, and vanilla) and refrigerate them up to 24 hours before baking. To maintain quality, ensure that you bring the refrigerated mixture to room temperature before mixing everything together and baking. When ready to bake your Pumpkin Spice Loaf, simply combine the dry and wet ingredients, pour into the prepared pan, bake, and enjoy the magical aroma filling your kitchen!

Pumpkin Spice Loaf Variations

Feel free to mix things up and personalize your loaf with these delightful twists!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a delicious, celiac-friendly version. Just ensure the blend has a good binding agent for the best texture.
Pumpkin Spice Mix-Up: If you’re out of pumpkin pie spice, create your DIY blend using cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger for a flavor boost that screams fall warmth.
Sweet Surprises: Fold in a handful of chocolate chips or dried cranberries to add unexpected pockets of sweetness and tartness, creating a delightful contrast in every bite.
Nuts About It: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture that complements the loaf’s moistness. Toasting the nuts beforehand enhances their nutty flavor and adds an extra dimension.
Vegan Version: Swap eggs for flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseeds mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg) and use dairy-free yogurt to create a delicious vegan-friendly loaf bursting with pumpkin goodness.
Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or ground ginger. It gives the loaf an exciting kick while still maintaining that cozy pumpkin flavor.
Fruit Fusion: Try incorporating shredded zucchini or carrots for added moisture and nutrients, resulting in a luscious loaf that’s perfect for breakfast or tea time.
Decadent Topping: For an extra treat, drizzle a simple cream cheese icing over the cooled loaf. Mix cream cheese with a bit of honey and vanilla for a sweet topping that takes this loaf to the next level.

With these variations, you can create your unique spin on the classic Pumpkin Spice Loaf, making every baking session feel fresh and fun!

Pumpkin Spice Loaf Recipe FAQs

What’s the best way to select pumpkin puree?
Absolutely! When choosing pumpkin puree, look for one that is labeled as 100% pure pumpkin, which should be thick and rich with a vibrant orange color. Avoid purees that contain added sugars or spices unless you’re seeking extra flavor; canned pumpkin is usually convenient, but fresh homemade puree can add a personal touch to your Pumpkin Spice Loaf.

How should I store my Pumpkin Spice Loaf for optimal freshness?
For optimal freshness, store your Pumpkin Spice Loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. If you prefer it chilled, you can refrigerate it for up to a week as long as it’s well wrapped to prevent it from drying out. To maintain its moist texture, I recommend slicing it right before consumption.

Can I freeze Pumpkin Spice Loaf, and how do I do it properly?
Yes, you can absolutely freeze your Pumpkin Spice Loaf! To do so, wrap it securely in plastic wrap, making sure there are no exposed areas to prevent freezer burn. Then, place it in a freezer bag, squeezing out excess air. Your loaf can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge and heat as desired.

What should I do if my loaf doesn’t rise well?
Very! If your loaf doesn’t rise as expected, it might be due to expired leavening agents like baking powder or baking soda. Always check the expiration dates before baking. Also, ensure that you’re not overmixing the batter, as this can lead to a denser loaf. A gently mixed batter is crucial for optimal rise and texture!

Are there any dietary considerations for my Pumpkin Spice Loaf?
Of course! For those with dietary restrictions, you can easily adapt this recipe. To make it gluten-free, replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. For vegans, substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal combined with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg). You can also use non-dairy butter and sour cream alternatives to make this loaf suitable for different dietary needs.

How do I know when my Pumpkin Spice Loaf is done baking?
The best way to check for doneness is to use a toothpick. Insert it into the center of the loaf; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, your Pumpkin Spice Loaf is ready. Start checking at the 40-minute mark and continue to test every 5-10 minutes until it’s perfectly baked. Enjoy the aroma that fills your kitchen along the way!