Name: Pumpkin Pecan Bread
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 2 teaspoons cinnamon; ½ teaspoon ginger; ½ teaspoon nutmeg; ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon cloves; ½ cup vegetable oil (or canola or lite tasting olive oil); ¼ cup unsalted butter (melted); ⅓ cup sour cream; 3 pieces eggs (Room temperature); 15 oz pure pumpkin puree (canned); ¾ cup brown sugar; ¾ cup white granulated sugar; 2 teaspoons vanilla bean paste (or vanilla extract); ¾ cup pecans (chopped)

Introduction to Pumpkin Pecan Bread

If you're a young professional juggling a busy lifestyle, you might be on the lookout for quick, wholesome treats that fit both your schedule and palate. Enter Pumpkin Pecan Bread! This delightful loaf is a seasonal favorite, combining rich flavors and nutritious ingredients, making it a perfect addition to your breakfast or snack options.

Why Pumpkin Pecan Bread is a must-try for young professionals?

Let’s face it: finding time to prepare meals can be a challenge. This recipe is not only straightforward but also quick—taking just about an hour from start to finish. Plus, it makes two loaves, so you can enjoy one now and freeze the other for later. As you indulge in the warm, comforting mix of pumpkin and spices, you’ll be delighted to know that you're nourishing your body too.

Rich in fiber and vitamins from the pumpkin, and healthy fats from the pecans, this bread can help fuel your busy days. Whether you're heading to work with a slice in hand or enjoying a leisurely weekend breakfast, Pumpkin Pecan Bread is versatile enough to suit any occasion.

Ready to get started? Let’s dive into the recipe and bring this tasty treat into your kitchen! For tips on how to make the most of your baking experience, check out resources from Joy of Baking or America's Test Kitchen.

Ingredients for Pumpkin Pecan Bread

Essential ingredients list

When it comes to making your delicious Pumpkin Pecan Bread, having the right ingredients is key. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this cozy treat:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
2 teaspoons baking powder
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground ginger
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon ground cloves
½ cup vegetable, canola, or light-tasting olive oil
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
⅓ cup sour cream
3 large eggs, at room temperature
15 oz can pure pumpkin puree
¾ cup brown sugar
¾ cup white granulated sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla bean paste or vanilla extract
¾ cup chopped pecans

Suggested alternatives for common allergens

If you or your loved ones have specific allergies, don't worry! There are plenty of substitutes available:

Gluten-free flour: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.
Dairy-free: Use almond milk yogurt instead of sour cream, and coconut oil in place of butter.
Egg substitutes: Consider using flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water = 1 egg) for a vegan option.
Nut-free: Swap out pecans for sunflower seeds or chocolate chips to keep things nut-free.

Feel free to experiment with these alternatives to achieve the perfect Pumpkin Pecan Bread that everyone can enjoy! For more tips on ingredient substitutions, you might find this resource helpful.

Step-by-Step Preparation of Pumpkin Pecan Bread

Creating a delicious Pumpkin Pecan Bread is a simple process that yields a warm, flavorful loaf perfect for any season. Whether it’s a cozy breakfast or an afternoon snack, this recipe enhances the essence of fall. Let’s walk through this step-by-step prep together!

Gather Your Equipment and Ingredients

Before diving into mixing and measuring, make sure you have everything ready. Here’s what you need:

Equipment:
2 loaf pans (or 4 mini loaf pans)
Mixing bowls
Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
2 teaspoons baking powder
2 teaspoons cinnamon
½ teaspoon ginger
½ teaspoon nutmeg
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon cloves
½ cup vegetable, canola, or lite tasting olive oil
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
⅓ cup sour cream
3 eggs (room temperature)
15 oz can pure pumpkin puree
¾ cup brown sugar
¾ cup white granulated sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla bean paste or vanilla extract
¾ cup pecans, chopped

Having everything at hand allows for a smooth baking experience and saves you from last-minute dashes to the store.

Mix Dry Ingredients for Optimal Flavor

In a medium-sized bowl, combine your flour, baking soda, baking powder, and spices. Whisk them together for a few moments until fully incorporated. This step is crucial as it ensures an even distribution of the baking components and spices, enhancing the flavor of your Pumpkin Pecan Bread.

Combine Wet Ingredients and Pumpkin Puree

In a large bowl, mix the sugars and eggs first, then whisk in the melted butter, oil, and sour cream. Next, stir in the star of the show: the pumpkin puree! It’s like autumn in a bowl. This rich mixture forms the moist base for your bread.

Bring it All Together – Combining Wet and Dry

Now, it’s time to unite the two mixtures. Add about half of the dry mixture to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Then, add the remaining dry ingredients and gently mix until no flour streaks remain. Be cautious not to overmix; you want a tender loaf, not a dense one!

Fold in the Pecans and Prepare for Baking

Once combined, fold in the chopped pecans carefully. They add a delightful crunch to each slice of your Pumpkin Pecan Bread. Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pans, making sure they are evenly distributed.

Bake to Perfection and Test for Doneness

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake your bread for 50 to 60 minutes for large loaves and 30 to 35 minutes for mini ones. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick comes out clean from the center. Let it cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Remember, patience is key—waiting for it to cool makes for much better slicing!

Enjoy your homemade Pumpkin Pecan Bread as a delightful treat, and share it with friends and family for a comforting taste of fall!

Variations on Pumpkin Pecan Bread

Add-ins for Extra Flavor

Elevate your Pumpkin Pecan Bread with delightful add-ins! Consider tossing in:

Chocolate Chips: For a sweet twist, incorporate semi-sweet chocolate chips—perfect for chocolate lovers.
Dried Cranberries or Raisins: These add a burst of tartness and chewiness that complements the spices beautifully.
Nutmeg or Allspice: If you love warm flavors, experiment with a dash more nutmeg or try adding allspice for complexity.
Zest of Orange: Fresh orange zest can brighten the loaf with citrus notes.

These additions not only enhance flavor but also provide a unique touch to your creation!

Transforming it into Muffins or Mini Loaves

Why not switch up the shape of your Pumpkin Pecan Bread? This recipe works perfectly for muffins or mini loaves!

Muffins: Use standard muffin tins and fill each cup about two-thirds full. Bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Mini Loaves: If you prefer mini loaves, just divide the batter into mini loaf pans (usually about 4-6 pans) and bake for 30-35 minutes.

Both options are not only cute and portable, but they also make fantastic gifts for friends or family during the fall season! For more seasonal baking inspiration, check out The Kitchn’s guide.

Cooking Tips and Notes for Pumpkin Pecan Bread

Common mistakes to avoid

When baking Pumpkin Pecan Bread, it's easy to miss the mark. One key mistake is overmixing the batter. Mixing too much can lead to a dense loaf instead of a light, fluffy one. Also, remember that room temperature ingredients blend more smoothly and create better texture. Lastly, ensure you measure your flour accurately; a kitchen scale can be a great investment for precision!

Tips for achieving moistness

To ensure your Pumpkin Pecan Bread is wonderfully moist, use a combination of oil and melted butter for richness. Incorporating sour cream also adds moistness and a delightful tang. Lastly, avoid opening the oven too often during baking, as this can cause temperature fluctuations that might dry out the bread. For more tips, check out King Arthur Baking.

Serving Suggestions for Pumpkin Pecan Bread

Best Pairings for Breakfast or Dessert

Start your day with a slice of Pumpkin Pecan Bread alongside turkey bacon or scrambled eggs for a hearty breakfast. The warm spices in the bread complement a cup of freshly brewed coffee or creamy chai latte beautifully. For a delightful dessert, serve the bread warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The blend of pumpkin, pecans, and spiced flavors creates a treat that’s perfect any time of day.

Creative Ways to Serve it at Gatherings

Elevate your gatherings by slicing Pumpkin Pecan Bread and presenting it on a rustic wooden board. Add a side of cream cheese spread or honey butter for a colorful display. You might also consider creating mini sandwiches using slices of the bread and filling them with chicken ham or turkey. These bite-sized delights are sure to impress your guests! For more hosting tips, check out this entertaining guide.

Time Breakdown for Pumpkin Pecan Bread

Prep Time

Preparing your ingredients for this delicious Pumpkin Pecan Bread takes just about 10 minutes. In that time, you'll gather your spices, measure out your flour, and mix your wet ingredients. It's the perfect warm-up for the magic that’s about to happen in your oven!

Baking Time

Once you've whipped up the batter, it’s time for the real fun! Bake your bread for 50 minutes in large loaf pans, or about 30-35 minutes if using mini loaf pans. You'll want to keep an eye on it—your kitchen will smell incredible as it bakes!

Total Time

From start to finish, this scrumptious Pumpkin Pecan Bread will take you about 1 hour. That includes prep and bake time, and remember to let it cool for a bit before slicing into it. Trust me, the wait is worth it!

Are you ready to unleash the deliciousness? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Nutritional Facts for Pumpkin Pecan Bread

Calories per slice

One slice of homemade Pumpkin Pecan Bread has approximately 180-220 calories. This makes it a delicious yet reasonably indulgent treat that pairs perfectly with your morning coffee or afternoon tea.

Key nutrients to note

This delightful bread is not just tasty; it’s also packed with nutrients! Each slice offers:

Fiber: Thanks to the pumpkin and whole ingredients, which is great for digestive health.
Healthy Fats: The pecans provide heart-healthy fats and protein.
Vitamins: A rich source of vitamins A and C from pumpkin, contributing to eye health and immunity.

Enjoying Pumpkin Pecan Bread means savoring a slice of fall while nourishing your body! For more detailed nutritional information, check out resources like the USDA FoodData Central.

FAQs about Pumpkin Pecan Bread

Can I substitute fresh pumpkin for canned?

Absolutely! While canned pumpkin puree is convenient, you can use fresh pumpkin for a more homemade touch. Just make sure to cook and puree the pumpkin until it’s smooth. You’ll need about 2 cups of fresh pumpkin to replace a 15 oz can. This substitution can add a vibrant flavor to your Pumpkin Pecan Bread, making it even more special.

How do I store Pumpkin Pecan Bread?

To keep your Pumpkin Pecan Bread fresh, store it at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and pop it in the freezer. It can stay delicious for up to 3 months. Just remember to thaw it in the fridge overnight before enjoying!

Can this recipe be made gluten-free?

Definitely! You can make Pumpkin Pecan Bread gluten-free by swapping the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the baking powder and other ingredients are also gluten-free. This way, everyone can enjoy this fall favorite! For more tips on gluten-free baking, check out resources like King Arthur Baking.

Conclusion on Pumpkin Pecan Bread

Why you should try making it today?

If you're searching for a cozy, comforting recipe to warm up your kitchen this fall, Pumpkin Pecan Bread is your answer! With its blend of spices and crunchy pecans, it’s perfect for breakfast or a delightful afternoon snack. Bake a loaf today and create cherished memories with family or friends—trust me, you won’t regret it! Plus, it makes a fantastic gift for the upcoming holiday season. Explore more on homemade breads here.