This Downeast Maine Pumpkin Bread is a fall favorite! Packed with warm spices, rich pumpkin flavor, and an incredibly moist texture, it’s perfect for breakfast, snack time, or dessert. This bread embodies the cozy flavors of autumn and is super easy to make.
📋 Ingredients:
- 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree 🎃
- 4 large eggs 🥚
- 1 cup vegetable oil 🛢️
- 2/3 cup water 💧
- 3 cups granulated sugar 🍬
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 🌾
- 2 teaspoons baking soda 🥄
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt 🧂
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 🌿
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg 🌰
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves 🍂
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger 🌿
- 1 cup chopped nuts or raisins (optional) 🌰🍇
📝 Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Pans:
- Preheat:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 7×3-inch loaf pans, or line them with parchment paper.
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
- Combine pumpkin mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, eggs, oil, water, and sugar until smooth and well combined.
3. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
- Combine dry ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
- Make the batter:
- Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the pumpkin mixture. Mix until just blended. If adding nuts or raisins, gently fold them into the batter at this point.
5. Bake:
- Transfer to pans:
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared loaf pans.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of each loaf comes out clean.
6. Cool and Serve:
- Cool:
- Allow the loaves to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before removing them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Serve:
- Slice and serve the pumpkin bread on its own, or spread with butter, cream cheese, or your favorite jam.
🍽️ Tips:
- Storage: Wrap the cooled loaves tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Spice it up: Add 1/2 teaspoon of allspice for an extra layer of warmth.
- Extras: Feel free to add chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried cranberries for added flavor and texture.
⏱️ Preparation Time: 15 minutes
⏱️ Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
🍽️ Servings: 3 loaves (about 24 slices)
🔥 Calories: Approximately 240 kcal per slice
This Downeast Maine Pumpkin Bread is a classic, flavorful treat that fills your kitchen with the cozy scents of fall. Enjoy a slice with a hot cup of coffee or tea! 🎃🍞🍂