Imagine the comforting aroma of freshly baked pumpkin bread with streusel topping filling your home. This moist, flavorful bread, with its warm fall spices and irresistible buttery topping, is a versatile treat. Whether you’re craving a cozy breakfast, a snack with your afternoon coffee, or a delightful dessert, this pumpkin bread recipe is your perfect go-to for the season. And the best part? It’s simpler than you might think!
The first time I made this pumpkin bread with streusel topping, I wondered how it would turn out. But as soon as it came out of the oven, my family hovered around the kitchen, eager to try it. One bite and it was all over—the loaf disappeared within hours! My teenage boys declared it the best bread they’d ever tasted, and even my husband, who isn’t the biggest fan of pumpkin, couldn’t stop sneaking slices. While we all love my Pumpkin Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Bars for breakfast, this pumpkin bread has now become a staple in my fall baking lineup too, and I’m thrilled to share what I believe is the best pumpkin bread recipe with you!
Introduction to Pumpkin Bread Recipe
Pumpkin bread is a quintessential fall treat that brings the cozy flavors of the season right into your kitchen. This pumpkin bread recipe is a true gem, combining the moist, tender crumb of the bread with a delightful streusel topping that adds a satisfying crunch. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is straightforward and requires no special equipment. The result? The best pumpkin bread you’ll ever taste, perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert. Plus, the addition of a sweet maple glaze takes it to the next level, making it a must-try for any pumpkin lover.
Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Bread with Streusel Topping
This pumpkin bread with streusel topping recipe is a game-changer. Here’s why:
- Quick Prep: It only takes 10 minutes to whip up the batter and the streusel.
- Moist and Flavorful: The pumpkin puree and spices make the bread incredibly tender and rich in flavor.
- Warm Spices: The blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves adds a cozy warmth to every bite.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family gatherings, holiday brunches, or as a gift for a friend.
- Simple Ingredients: You probably have most of these pantry staples on hand.
Ingredients for Pumpkin Bread with Streusel Topping
For the Streusel Topping:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- ⅓ cup all-purpose flour plus 2 tablespoons
- ¼ cup dark brown sugar
- 2 ½ tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- A pinch of kosher salt
We use dark brown sugar instead of light brown sugar for its richer flavor, which comes from its higher molasses content, enhancing the taste of the streusel topping.
Pumpkin Bread
- ½ cup unsalted butter melted and cooled
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 cup pure pumpkin puree
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup packed light brown sugar
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Pumpkin Bread with Streusel Topping
1. Prepare the Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×5-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper, letting the edges hang over the sides. This size is ideal for the bread to rise evenly and bake to a perfect golden brown. It also makes it easy to lift the loaf out later.
2. Make the Streusel Topping
Melt the butter in a microwave-safe dish, then mix it with the flour, sugars, pumpkin pie spice, and a pinch of salt. Use a fork to combine until it forms a crumbly texture. Refrigerate the streusel while you prepare the bread.
3. Mix the Dry Ingredients
Whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, and salt in a medium bowl. Set this aside.
4. Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, mix the pumpkin puree and eggs until smooth. It’s important to use room temperature eggs to prevent the butter from solidifying. Add the melted butter, vanilla, granulated sugar, and brown sugar, stirring until thoroughly combined.
5. Combine Wet and Dry
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until no flour is visible. Be careful not to overmix.
6. Assemble the Bread
Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Remove the streusel topping from the fridge, fluff it with a fork, and sprinkle it evenly over the batter.
7. Bake
Bake for 70-80 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes clean. To prevent the streusel from over-browning, loosely cover the top with foil after 50-60 minutes. Keep an eye on it—oven temperatures can vary!
8. Cool and Serve
Let the bread cool in the pan for 20 minutes. Then, use the parchment paper to gently lift the loaf and transfer it to a cooling rack. It’s important to wait at least one hour before slicing for the best results. This allows the bread to set and maintain its structure. Enjoy your perfectly baked pumpkin bread with streusel topping!
Tips for Making Moist Pumpkin Bread
Achieving the perfect, moist pumpkin bread is all about the right ingredients and techniques. Here are some tips to ensure your bread turns out just right:
- Use Fresh Pumpkin Puree or Canned Pumpkin: Opt for fresh pumpkin puree instead of canned pumpkin pie filling. Fresh puree or canned pumpkin provides a better flavor and texture, making your bread taste more authentic.
- Avoid Overmixing: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until no flour is visible. Overmixing can lead to a dense, tough bread.
- Blend Sugars: Using a mix of white and brown sugar adds a rich, caramel-like flavor to the bread. The brown sugar also helps keep the bread moist.
- Incorporate Baking Soda: Adding a teaspoon of baking soda helps the bread rise properly, giving it a light, airy texture.
- Choose Vegetable Oil: Instead of butter, use vegetable oil for a tender crumb. Oil keeps the bread moist and soft, even after a few days.
By following these tips, you’ll create a pumpkin bread that’s perfectly moist and full of flavor.
The Magic of Streusel Topping
The streusel topping is what sets this pumpkin bread apart from the rest. It adds a delightful crunch and a sweet, buttery flavor that perfectly complements the spiced pumpkin bread. To make the best streusel topping, combine brown sugar, powdered sugar, and melted butter. For extra texture and flavor, consider adding chopped nuts or oats. Simply mix the ingredients until they form a crumbly mixture, then sprinkle it generously over the pumpkin bread batter before baking. This topping not only enhances the taste but also gives the bread a beautiful, bakery-style finish.
By incorporating these elements, you’ll elevate your pumpkin bread to a whole new level, making it a standout treat for any occasion.
Using Pumpkin Pie Filling in Pumpkin Bread
While it might be tempting to use pumpkin pie filling as a shortcut in your pumpkin bread recipe, it’s important to understand the differences between pumpkin pie filling and pumpkin puree. Pumpkin pie filling is pre-sweetened and spiced, containing ingredients like sweetened condensed milk and spices, which can significantly alter the flavor and texture of your bread.
If you find yourself in a pinch and only have pumpkin pie filling on hand, you can still make it work. Just remember to reduce the amount of sugar and spices in your recipe, as the filling already includes these elements. This adjustment will help balance the flavors and prevent your bread from becoming overly sweet or spiced.
However, for the most authentic and delicious pumpkin bread, it’s best to stick with pumpkin puree. Whether you use canned or fresh pumpkin puree, it provides a pure pumpkin flavor and a perfect texture that’s hard to beat. But if you’re in a hurry and need to use pumpkin pie filling, it can be a convenient substitute—just be prepared for a slightly different taste and texture.
FAQ’s for the Best Pumpkin Bread with Streusel Topping
- How should I measure the flour for this recipe?
- Use a spoon to scoop the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a butter knife to ensure accurate measurements. Avoid scooping flour directly with the measuring cup, which can pack it, resulting in dense bread.
- How do I store pumpkin bread to keep it fresh?
- Store the baked bread in an airtight container at room temperature for 3 days. This will keep it moist and preserve the crunchy streusel topping.
- Can I freeze this bread to enjoy later?
- Absolutely! Wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. To enjoy, thaw the bread at room temperature until thoroughly defrosted.
- Do I need to use all of the crumble topping?
- While crumble topping is not mandatory, I highly recommend using most of it for that deliciously crunchy buttery layer on top. It’s what makes this bread extra unique!
Serving Suggestions
This pumpkin bread with streusel topping is delicious on its own, but it’s even better with:
- A dollop of whipped cream or cream cheese spread.
- A drizzle of maple syrup.
- A hot cup of coffee, tea, or apple cider.
How to Store and Freeze
- Store: Keep the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for 3 days.
- Freeze: Slice the bread and wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap. Store in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw and enjoy when you’re ready!
Variations to Try
- Add-ins: Mix in chocolate chips or dried cranberries for a festive twist.
- Different Purees: Swap pumpkin for sweet potato or butternut squash puree for a unique flavor.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Final Thoughts
There’s no better way to welcome fall than with the warm, spiced flavors of pumpkin bread with streusel topping. This easy, no-fail recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home. Whether serving it at a family gathering or savoring a slice with your morning coffee, this bread will bring the cozy vibes you crave. Pumpkin streusel bread becomes a staple in many kitchens as autumn arrives, making it a beloved fall treat.
If you decide to give this recipe a try, I’d love to hear about your experience! Share your photos on Instagram and tag me @HipMamasPlace. I can’t wait to see your unique creations. And don’t forget to save this recipe for future baking adventures!
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MORE DELICIOUS RECIPES FROM HIP MAMA’S PLACE!
If you love pumpkin bread, I know you’ll love these other pumpkin treats too!
Pumpkin Bundt Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Pumpkin-Almond Chocolate Chip Granola Bars
Pumpkin S’mores Cheesecake Bars
The BEST Lemon Raspberry Bread
I hope you like this recipe for pumpkin bread with streusel topping – be sure to give it a review below!
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Pumpkin Bread with Streusel Topping
- Total Time: 1 hour and 25 minutes
- Yield: 10-12 slices 1x
Ingredients
For the Streusel Topping:
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and cooled
1⁄3 cup** all purpose flour plus 2 tablespoons
1⁄4 cup light brown sugar
2 1⁄2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
pinch of kosher salt
For the Pumpkin Batter:
1⁄2 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
2 cups** all purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
1⁄2 teaspoon kosher salt
1 cup pure pumpkin puree
2 large eggs, room temperature
1⁄2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup granulated sugar
1⁄4 cup packed light brown sugar
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees fahrenheit. Grease and then line a 9×5 baking pan with parchment paper so that the edges of the parchment hang over the two longer sides of the pan.
- In a microwave safe dish, melt the 1⁄2 cup unsalted butter for the bread and set aside to cool.
- In a separate microwave safe bowl, melt the butter for the streusel topping.
- Once melted add the flour, sugars, pumpkin pie spice, and salt to the bowl with the butter for the streusel topping. Using a fork, mix to create the streusel topping. Place in the refrigerator until ready to use.
- To make the bread, in a medium bowl whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, pie spice, and salt. Set aside.
- In a separate bowl mix together the pumpkin puree and eggs until combined.
- Add vanilla, sugars, and melted butter and mix until fully combined.
- Add the whisked dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until you can no longer see flour.
- Pour mixture into prepared loaf pan and remove streusel mixture from the refrigerator.
- Using the fork, mix up the streusel mixture and gently spread over the top of the bread loaf covering it completely.
- Bake for 70 to 80 minutes or until a toothpick placed in the center of the loaf comes out clean with little crumb. At around 50-60 minutes cover the top loosely with tin foil to keep the streusel topping from getting too brown while the middle of the bread still bakes. Make sure to check your loaf around 50 minutes because oven temperatures do vary.
- Let the pumpkin loaf cool for 20 minutes in the pan and then using the parchment paper, gently remove the loaf from the pan and place on a cooling rack to finish cooling.
- Before slicing let the pumpkin loaf cool for about one hour.
- Enjoy!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
A former school teacher, Jocelyn Brown created Hip Mama’s Place in 2007. Her motto for this blog is: get inspired, create and share! Jocelyn loves sharing about food and recipes, crafts, DIY projects and her random travels with her family. She also loves all things social media, but her latest obsession is Instagram.
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Nnniiiccceeee…this is my first time seeing pumpkin bread. I love pumpkin a lot as well as bread. It’s a must for me to enjoy this bread. Thanks for sharing.
This looks really good! Very timely since we still have a lot of pumpkins at home. Would love to try your recipe but instead of the canned puree. I will try to make it from scratch. Thank you for sharing this.
I can almost smell the warm spices just reading about it. It’s great to hear how much your family loved it—there’s something special about those cosy baking moments that bring everyone together. I can’t wait to try this recipe myself, especially with that sweet maple glaze you mentioned! Perfect for fall gatherings!
That pumpkin bread with streusel topping is looking quite delicious! Would love to give this a try, I don’t think I’ve tried it with streusel topping before.
This looks incredible and so yummy! I need to make this for Thanksgiving…. it will be the perfect addition!
I’m one hundred percent all in for this one. I love a good pumpkin bread, but that streusel takes it to a whole new level.
this sounds amazing.. and something i do want to try. the color looks gorgeous as well
This looks fantastic, and just lightly spiced. The pumpkin flavor will come out and the buttery streusel takes it over the top. What a great fall treat.
This pumpkin bread sounds absolutely delicious! The combination of a moist, tender crumb with that crunchy streusel topping is perfection.
Thank you for this cool recipe! I have canned pumpkin in the pantry, and now I know how to use it. Kids will love the sugar on top.
I love pumpkin bread; it is so delicious. I will have to make some for thanksgiving holiday party.
Perfect time of year for this kind of bread and I would do this to serve with a hearty cup of hot coco xx
My aunt has a delicious recipe for pumpkin bread, but hers doesn’t have the streusel topping. This takes it to another level and will now be how I make pumpkin bread every time!
I will admit, I have never tried pumpkin bread. From the look of yours listed above I’m excited to try and make this. It looks really good, and I bet it taste even better with a cup of tea.
Oh wow, that’s a new one. I haven’t heard of pumpkin bread before. It sounds really yummy!!!
I love pumpkin bread! It’s such a treat and perfect for any time the cravings hit. I usually don’t put streusel topping when I make pumpkin bread but clearly I am missing out because I love how it takes the flavor up a notch.
Maureen | http://www.littlemisscasual.com
I love the streusel on this pumpkin bread! Such a simple twist on a classic recipe. I can’t wait to make this!
This bread looks so good! I just love all things pumpkin. I cannot wait to try this.
This looks amazing! All I need now is some butter and a cup of coffee. Om nom nom!
WOW AMAZING this reminds me of grammas coffee cake she would make growing up I bet its delicious!!!
I love pumpkin bread but this one is my favorite recipe because of that yummy streusel topping! What a perfect fall treat.