Pumpkin streusel bread has always been my absolute favorite fall baking project. I remember chilly autumn afternoons at my grandmother’s house, the air thick with the comforting scent of cinnamon and sweet pumpkin, as she pulled a golden loaf from the oven. That perfectly tender crumb topped with a buttery, crunchy streusel was pure magic. If you’re wondering how to make pumpkin streusel bread that captures that cozy feeling, you’ve come to the right place! This recipe delivers the best pumpkin streusel bread, bursting with warm spices and topped with an irresistible maple glaze. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Streusel Bread
Get ready to fall in love with this incredible pumpkin bread! Here’s why it’s a must-try:
- Incredible Flavor: The perfect balance of sweet pumpkin, warm spices, and a rich, buttery streusel topping makes every bite a delight.
- Quick & Easy Prep: You can whip up the batter and topping in just about 15 minutes, making it a fantastic weeknight treat.
- Moist Texture Guaranteed: This moist pumpkin streusel bread recipe uses just the right ingredients to ensure a tender crumb every time.
- Budget-Friendly Baking: Most of the ingredients are pantry staples, making this a cost-effective way to enjoy a delicious homemade loaf.
- Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike adore this bread, especially with its crunchy topping and sweet glaze. It’s a crowd-pleaser for sure!
- Perfectly Spiced: The blend of cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves creates that quintessential cozy fall flavor we all crave.
- Versatile Treat: This moist pumpkin streusel bread recipe is perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert.
- Aromatic Delight: The smell as it bakes will fill your home with the comforting essence of autumn.
Ingredients for Pumpkin Streusel Bread
Gathering your pumpkin streusel bread ingredients is the first step to baking this delightful loaf. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened – this creates a tender crumb.
- 1 cup dark brown sugar, lightly packed – adds moisture and a deep caramel flavor.
- 1 cup pumpkin puree (not pie filling) – the star ingredient for that classic pumpkin flavor and moistness.
- 2 large eggs – helps bind everything together.
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves – these spices create our warm, autumnal flavor profile.
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp salt – these leaveners and salt balance the sweetness and help the bread rise.
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour – the base of our bread structure.
- For the Streusel Topping:
- 6 Tbsp unsalted butter, melted – this is key for that wonderfully crunchy topping.
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, light or dark – for sweetness and texture in the crumb.
- 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice or ground cinnamon – adds extra spiced goodness to the topping.
- For the Maple Glaze:
- 1 cup confectioners’ sugar – for a smooth, sweet glaze.
- 1/4 tsp maple extract – for intense maple flavor.
- 1 Tbsp maple syrup – adds authentic maple notes and a lovely sheen.
- 1 Tbsp milk or cream – to achieve the perfect drizzling consistency.
How to Make Pumpkin Streusel Bread
Let’s get baking! This recipe for an easy pumpkin streusel bread is straightforward and incredibly rewarding. Follow these steps for a loaf that smells as amazing as it tastes.
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously grease an 8 or 9-inch light metal loaf pan, or line it with parchment paper and grease the paper. This ensures your beautiful bread releases without a hitch.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, cream together the 1/2 cup softened unsalted butter and 1 cup packed dark brown sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is smooth and fluffy, about 1 minute.
- Step 3: Add the 1 cup pumpkin puree into the bowl, mixing until just combined. Then, crack in the 2 large eggs, mixing well after each addition until fully incorporated for a cohesive batter.
- Step 4: Stir in the aromatic spices: 2 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/2 tsp ground ginger, 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg, and 1/4 tsp ground cloves. Next, add the 1 tsp baking soda, 1 tsp baking powder, 1 tsp salt, and 1½ cups all-purpose flour. Mix on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix; a few streaks of flour are okay.
- Step 5: Prepare the delightful streusel topping. In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the 6 Tbsp melted unsalted butter, 3/4 cup all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup brown sugar, and 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice. Stir until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, like wet sand – this creates the perfect crunchy pumpkin crumb topping bread.
- Step 6: Carefully spread the pumpkin bread batter evenly into your prepared loaf pan.
- Step 7: Now for the best part! Drop spoonfuls of the streusel topping evenly over the surface of the bread batter. Cover as much of the batter as possible for maximum crunch.
- Step 8: Bake for 55-60 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with only a few moist crumbs attached. The aroma filling your kitchen will be heavenly!
- Step 9: Let the baked pumpkin streusel bread cool in the pan on a wire rack for about 15-20 minutes before carefully inverting it onto the rack to cool completely. This prevents it from becoming soggy.
- Step 10: While the bread cools, whip up the maple glaze. In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup confectioners’ sugar, 1/4 tsp maple extract, 1 Tbsp maple syrup, and 1 Tbsp milk or cream until you achieve a smooth, drizzle-able glaze.
- Step 11: Once the pumpkin streusel bread is completely cool, drizzle that luscious glaze evenly over the top. Let the glaze set for about 10-15 minutes before slicing and enjoying your homemade masterpiece.
Pro Tips for the Best Pumpkin Streusel Bread
Want to elevate your baking game? Follow these expert tips for a truly exceptional loaf:
- Always use pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, for the best flavor and texture. The filling often contains added sugars and spices that can alter the outcome.
- Don’t overmix the batter once the flour is added! This is crucial for a tender crumb and prevents a tough loaf. A few streaks of flour are perfectly fine.
- For an extra flavorful spiced pumpkin streusel bread, consider toasting your pumpkin seeds and adding them to the streusel topping for added crunch and nutty flavor. You can find great tips on toasting seeds from Allrecipes.
- Ensure your baking soda and baking powder are fresh. Old leaveners can lead to a dense, flat bread, which is the opposite of what we want! Check out this guide on leavening agents for more information.
What’s the secret to perfect Pumpkin Streusel Bread?
The magic lies in the combination of moist pumpkin puree, the right spice blend, and that irresistible crunchy streusel topping. This balance is key to what makes pumpkin streusel bread so beloved. For more baking inspiration, explore our collection of recipes.
Can I make Pumpkin Streusel Bread ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the batter and streusel topping separately and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes your homemade pumpkin streusel loaf even easier to assemble. If you’re looking for other make-ahead options, consider our turkey meatloaf recipe.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Pumpkin Streusel Bread?
The most common pitfall is overbaking, which leads to dryness. To prevent this, always test for doneness with a toothpick; it should come out with moist crumbs, not completely dry. Also, avoid using pumpkin pie filling instead of pure pumpkin puree to ensure the correct flavor and texture. For other baking tips, check out our about me page for more insights.
Best Ways to Serve Fall Pumpkin Streusel Bread
This delicious loaf is so versatile, it’s perfect for any autumn occasion. Imagine slicing into a warm piece of this fall pumpkin streusel bread with your morning coffee or tea – it’s the ultimate cozy breakfast. For a delightful afternoon snack, serve a generous slice alongside a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. It also makes a wonderful dessert when paired with a glass of milk or a warm apple cider. The sweet, spiced flavors are simply made for crisp autumn days and gatherings. If you love fall flavors, you might also enjoy our frozen banana snickers.
Nutrition Facts for Pumpkin Streusel Bread
This delightful loaf offers a wonderful balance of flavor and sweetness. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional highlights per serving:
- Calories: 204
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 125mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used. For more information on healthy eating, consider exploring Zepbound weight loss recipes.
How to Store and Reheat Pumpkin Streusel Bread
Properly storing your pumpkin streusel bread ensures it stays fresh and delicious for days. After baking, allow the loaf to cool completely on a wire rack. This is crucial, as trapping heat will create condensation, making the bread soggy. Once cooled, wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight container. Stored this way, your bread will stay fresh at room temperature for 3-4 days. If you find yourself with more deliciousness than you can eat, freezing is a great option. For freezer storage, wrap individual slices or the whole loaf securely in plastic wrap and then foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, allow frozen slices to thaw overnight in the refrigerator. For reheating, you can gently warm slices in a toaster oven or a low-heat conventional oven (around 300°F or 150°C) for a few minutes until warmed through, bringing back that fresh-from-the-oven aroma and texture. This method is far better than microwaving, which can make the bread tough. If you’re interested in other bread recipes, our keto cottage cheese bread recipe is also a great option.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pumpkin Streusel Bread
Can I make pumpkin streusel muffins instead of bread?
Absolutely! This batter is fantastic for muffins. Simply fill muffin liners about two-thirds full and adjust the baking time to approximately 20-25 minutes at 350°F (175°C). The streusel topping works perfectly for muffins too, offering that delightful crunch in every bite of your pumpkin streusel muffin recipe.
My pumpkin streusel bread turned out dry. Why?
Dryness is usually caused by overbaking or using too much flour. Always test for doneness with a toothpick – it should come out with moist crumbs, not completely clean. Also, ensure you’re using pure pumpkin puree and not pie filling, as the latter can alter the moisture content. Measuring your flour accurately is also key to a perfectly moist loaf. For other baking tips, you might find our caramel brownie cheesecake recipe helpful.
What makes the streusel topping so good on pumpkin bread?
The combination of melted butter, flour, brown sugar, and spices creates a magical crumble. The butter coats the flour and sugar, forming clumps that bake up wonderfully crisp. This sweet, crumbly layer is what truly elevates a simple loaf into a decadent pumpkin bread with streusel topping that everyone adores.
Can I add nuts to the streusel topping?
Yes, adding nuts is a fantastic idea! Chopped walnuts or pecans pair beautifully with the pumpkin and cinnamon flavors. About 1/2 cup of chopped nuts can be stirred into the streusel mixture before topping the bread. They add an extra layer of texture and a nutty depth that complements the pumpkin streusel bread wonderfully.
Variations of Pumpkin Streusel Bread You Can Try
While this recipe is fantastic as-is, don’t be afraid to get creative! Here are a few ways to switch things up for a unique twist on your favorite loaf.
- Dairy-Free Delight: To create a dairy-free pumpkin streusel bread, simply swap the unsalted butter for a dairy-free butter alternative in both the bread and streusel components. Use almond milk or a dairy-free creamer for the glaze.
- Vegan Pumpkin Perfection: For a vegan pumpkin streusel bread recipe, use a plant-based butter substitute. For the eggs, you can use a flax egg (1 Tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 3 Tbsp water, let sit for 5 minutes) or a commercial egg replacer. Ensure your sugar is vegan-friendly.
- Gluten-Free Goodness: Easily make this recipe gluten-free by substituting a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend for the all-purpose flour. You might find the texture slightly different, but the flavor will still be incredible. For another gluten-free option, try our crispy roasted cauliflower.
- Chocolate Chip Twist: Fold in about 1/2 cup of chocolate chips (milk, dark, or white) into the batter before adding the streusel for a decadent chocolate-pumpkin combination.
Irresistible Pumpkin Streusel Bread: 1 Amazing Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: About 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Pumpkin Streusel Bread recipe delivers a moist pumpkin loaf with a rich, crunchy streusel topping and a sweet maple glaze. It’s the perfect fall treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
- For the Bread:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup dark brown sugar, lightly packed
- 1 cup pumpkin puree (not 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
- 1 Tbsp maple syrup
- 1 Tbsp milk or cream
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease an 8 or 9-inch light metal loaf pan or line it with parchment paper and grease. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and dark brown sugar with an electric mixer until smooth, about 1 minute.
- Add the pumpkin puree and then the eggs, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the spices, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and all-purpose flour. Mix on low speed until just combined. Do not over-mix.
- In a separate medium bowl, combine the melted butter, flour, brown sugar, and pumpkin pie spice for the streusel topping. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Spread the bread batter evenly into the prepared loaf pan.
- Drop spoonfuls of the streusel topping evenly over the bread batter.
- Bake for 55-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean or with only moist crumbs attached.
- Allow the pumpkin streusel bread to cool completely on a wire rack.
- To make the glaze, whisk together the confectioners’ sugar, maple extract, maple syrup, and milk in a medium bowl until you achieve a smooth glaze.
- Drizzle the glaze evenly over the cooled pumpkin streusel bread. Let the glaze set before slicing and serving.
Notes
- You can substitute light brown sugar for dark brown sugar in the bread batter.
- If you don’t have pumpkin pie spice, use ground cinnamon for the streusel topping.
- Vanilla extract can be used instead of maple extract in the glaze.
- Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to the streusel topping for extra crunch.
- This recipe is great for using up leftover pumpkin puree.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (60g)
- Calories: 204
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 125mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
