How do you know when pumpkin bread is done?

Insert a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs (not wet batter), it's ready. The top should look golden with a little crack.

What happens if you over mix pumpkin bread?

Over mixing develops too much gluten, which leads to dense or rubbery bread. Stir just enough — 50 strokes is your friend.

Why is my pumpkin bread not moist?

It could be from using watery pumpkin or baking too long. Use thick puree and watch your bake time closely. Cooling it too long in the pan can also dry it out — move it to a wire rack once it's stable.

Pumpkin Bread Recipe – 2 Perfect Loaves with Sugar Crust

Description

Moist, warmly spiced pumpkin bread with a crunchy sugar crust. This recipe makes two loaves and gets even better the next day — perfect for gifting, freezing, or cozy mornings with coffee.

Ingredients

Scale

1 (15 oz) can pumpkin puree (Libby’s recommended)

4 large eggs, room temperature

1 cup neutral oil (extra virgin olive oil preferred)

1 tablespoon bourbon or vanilla

1 ½ cups granulated sugar

1 cup dark brown sugar, packed

3 cups flour

1 teaspoon baking soda

½ teaspoon baking powder

1 teaspoon fine salt

2 tablespoons pumpkin spice (homemade or store-bought)

3 tablespoons sugar, divided (for pans and topping)

Oil or baking spray for greasing pans

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Grease two 9×5-inch loaf pans with oil or baking spray.

3. Sprinkle each pan with 1 tablespoon of sugar (crust tip).

4. In a large bowl, whisk together pumpkin, eggs, oil, bourbon or vanilla, and both sugars.

5. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and pumpkin spice.

6. Add dry ingredients to wet mixture gradually, whisking to combine. Stir for 50 strokes to avoid overmixing.

7. Divide batter evenly between the prepared pans.

8. Sprinkle remaining sugar evenly over the tops for a crunchy crust.

9. Bake 60–65 minutes, or until toothpick inserted comes out clean.

10. Remove from oven, invert loaves onto wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Notes

Use Libby’s pumpkin for best consistency; organic varieties can be watery and may require reducing.

If using looser canned pumpkin, simmer to reduce moisture before using.

Don’t skip salt—it enhances flavor even in small amounts.

Fresh spices are key; stale blends won’t pop as much.

The sugar coating on the pans and top adds great texture and flavor.

Bourbon adds warm depth if you have it on hand, but vanilla works well too.

This bread freezes beautifully and tastes even better the next day.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 60–65 minutes
Category: Pumpkin Recipes
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American