Pumpkin Streusel Bread

This Pumpkin Streusel Bread is a delightful blend of moist pumpkin bread topped with a rich streusel crumb and a sweet maple glaze. Perfect for fall gatherings, cozy breakfasts, or as a sweet treat anytime, this recipe stands out with its intense flavors and soft texture. You’ll love how easy it is to make and the way it fills your home with the warm, inviting scents of autumn.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistibly Moist: The addition of pumpkin puree ensures that every slice is tender and flavorful.
• Decadent Topping: The thick streusel topping adds a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft bread.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy this bread for breakfast, as a snack, or even as dessert topped with whipped cream.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Perfect for Sharing: Whether at a potluck or family gathering, everyone will want to try your delicious creation.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Pumpkin Streusel Bread, gather your tools. Having everything ready makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Light metal loaf pan (8-or-9 inches)
• Handheld electric mixer
• Mixing bowls (large and medium)
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Light metal loaf pan: Ensures even cooking and gives the bread a nice rise.
• Handheld electric mixer: Makes creaming butter and sugar effortless, creating a smooth batter.

Ingredients

To make this Pumpkin Streusel Bread, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Bread

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup dark brown sugar, lightly packed (can substitute with light brown sugar)
• 1 cup pumpkin puree (do not use pumpkin pie filling)
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground ginger
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1½ cups all-purpose flour

For the Streusel Topping

• 6 Tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, light or dark
• 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice or ground cinnamon

For the Maple Glaze

• 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
• 1/4 tsp maple extract (can substitute vanilla)
• 1 Tbsp maple syrup
• 1 Tbsp milk or cream

How to Make Pumpkin Streusel Bread

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350℉. Prepare an 8-or-9 inch light metal loaf pan by greasing it liberally with cooking spray or lining it with parchment paper before greasing.

Step 2: Prepare the Bread Batter

In a large bowl:
1. Combine the softened butter with dark brown sugar using a handheld electric mixer until smooth (about 1 minute).
2. Add in the pumpkin puree followed by the eggs, mixing well after each addition.
3. Gradually add in spices, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and flour. Mix on low speed until just combined—do not over-mix!

Step 3: Make the Streusel Topping

In a medium bowl:
– Combine melted butter, flour, brown sugar, and pumpkin pie spice.
– Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.

Spread the prepared batter into your greased loaf pan evenly. Drop heaping handfuls of streusel over the top.

Step 4: Bake

Place in your preheated oven and bake for 55-60 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick near the center; it should come out clean or with moist crumbs but not wet batter. Allow it to cool completely on a wire rack.

Step 5: Prepare Your Glaze

In another medium bowl:
– Whisk together confectioners’ sugar, maple extract, maple syrup, and milk until smooth.
– Drizzle this glaze evenly over the cooled bread. Let set before slicing into pieces to serve.

This delectable Pumpkin Streusel Bread is sure to be a hit! Enjoy making it for yourself or sharing with friends and family during those cozy fall days.

How to Serve Pumpkin Streusel Bread

Pumpkin Streusel Bread is a delightful treat perfect for fall gatherings or cozy mornings. Its rich flavors and textures make it versatile for various serving occasions.

For Breakfast

• With Coffee: Pair a slice with your favorite coffee for a warm, comforting start to the day.
• With Yogurt: Serve alongside a bowl of Greek yogurt topped with fresh fruits for a balanced breakfast.

As an Afternoon Snack

• Cream Cheese Spread: Add a layer of cream cheese spread on top for a creamy contrast to the sweet bread.
• Nut Butter: Spread almond or peanut butter over the bread for a protein-packed snack.

For Dessert

• With Ice Cream: Warm up a slice and serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
• Drizzled with Honey: A drizzle of honey adds an extra touch of sweetness that complements the spices in the bread.

At Gatherings

• On a Charcuterie Board: Include slices on your charcuterie board with cheeses and nuts for an autumn-themed platter.
• Gift Wrapped: Wrap slices as gifts during the holidays; it’s a thoughtful gesture that friends and family will love.

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How to Perfect Pumpkin Streusel Bread

To achieve the best results with your Pumpkin Streusel Bread, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh eggs and high-quality pumpkin puree for optimal flavor.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix only until combined; overmixing can lead to dense bread instead of light and fluffy.
• Check Doneness Early: Start checking your bread at 50 minutes to avoid over-baking. A toothpick should come out clean or with just crumbs.
• Cool Completely Before Glazing: Allow the bread to cool fully before adding glaze. This prevents it from melting away and ensures the glaze sets nicely.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Streusel Bread

Pairing side dishes with Pumpkin Streusel Bread can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances the richness of the bread.
2. Scrambled Eggs: The savory flavor of scrambled eggs complements the sweet notes in the bread nicely.
3. Chai Tea: This spiced tea enhances the warm spices in your Pumpkin Streusel Bread, making it perfect for chilly days.
4. Cinnamon Oatmeal: A warm bowl of oatmeal sprinkled with cinnamon offers another comforting breakfast option.
5. Maple Bacon: The salty, sweet combination of bacon pairs wonderfully with pumpkin flavors, creating an indulgent treat.
6. Almonds or Pecans: Toasted nuts add crunch and contrast, making them ideal snacks on the side.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Pumpkin Streusel Bread, it’s easy to make a few common errors that can affect your delicious results. Here are some mistakes to watch out for.

• Using pumpkin pie filling – Always use plain pumpkin puree instead of pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugars and spices.
• Over-mixing the batter – Mix just until combined. Over-mixing can lead to a dense bread instead of a light, fluffy texture.
• Incorrect oven temperature – Make sure to preheat your oven to 350℉. Baking at the wrong temperature can result in uneven cooking.
• Skipping the cooling time – Allow the bread to cool completely on a wire rack before slicing. Cutting too soon can make it crumbly and difficult to handle.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately – Use proper measuring cups and spoons for dry and wet ingredients. Inaccurate measurements can alter the texture and flavor.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Pumpkin Streusel Bread in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Pumpkin Streusel Bread

• Wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• You can freeze it for up to 3 months.

Reheating Pumpkin Streusel Bread

• Oven – Preheat your oven to 350℉. Place slices on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave – Heat individual slices for about 15-20 seconds on medium power.
• Stovetop – Warm slices in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Pumpkin Streusel Bread.

How do I make my Pumpkin Streusel Bread moist?

To keep your Pumpkin Streusel Bread moist, avoid over-mixing and ensure you’re using fresh pumpkin puree.

Can I add nuts to my Pumpkin Streusel Bread?

Yes! Chopped walnuts or pecans can enhance both flavor and texture. Just fold them into the batter before pouring it into the pan.

What should I serve with Pumpkin Streusel Bread?

This bread pairs wonderfully with coffee or tea, making it perfect for breakfast or brunch.

Can I use different spices in my Pumpkin Streusel Bread?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with spices like allspice or cardamom for unique flavors.

Final Thoughts

Pumpkin Streusel Bread is a delightful treat that blends rich flavors with a satisfying texture. It’s perfect for fall gatherings or cozy mornings at home. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite nuts or spices. Try this recipe today, and enjoy its warm, comforting taste!