Amish Farmhouse Pumpkin Loaf

Irresistibly Moist Amish Pumpkin Bread: Your New Fall Favorite

Step into the cozy embrace of autumn with our perfectly soft and irresistibly moist Amish Pumpkin Bread. Bursting with classic fall flavors, this recipe embodies the simple, wholesome tradition of Amish baking. It’s an effortlessly easy quick bread that promises a delicious experience with every slice, making it a true standout among seasonal treats. If you’re searching for the ultimate homemade pumpkin bread, your quest ends here.

Overhead shot of an entire loaf of freshly baked Amish Pumpkin Bread, perfectly golden brown and inviting.
Amish Pumpkin Bread

Crafting this delightful pumpkin bread brings to mind the comforting process of baking my beloved banana bread. The shared simplicity in ingredients and straightforward preparation methods create a familiar and enjoyable kitchen experience. Both quick breads celebrate humble components, transforming them into something extraordinary with minimal fuss.

The secret to elevating this loaf from good to truly exceptional lies within the generous use of pumpkin pie spice. This single blend of warm, aromatic spices—typically cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves—eliminates the need for multiple individual spice jars, streamlining your baking process while ensuring a harmonious burst of autumnal flavor in every bite. It’s an indispensable ingredient that truly encapsulates the essence of fall.

Why You’ll Adore This Amish Pumpkin Bread Recipe

Our Amish Pumpkin Bread isn’t just a recipe; it’s an experience designed for enjoyment and ease. Here’s what makes this particular quick bread a delightful addition to your baking repertoire:

  • Effortless Cleanup: With minimal dishes required for preparation, you’ll spend less time scrubbing and more time savoring your freshly baked creation. This simple approach is a hallmark of traditional Amish cooking, focusing on practicality without compromising on taste.
  • Pantry Staples: Most of the ingredients needed for this recipe are likely already in your kitchen pantry. This makes impromptu baking sessions simple and convenient, perfect for when a craving strikes or unexpected guests arrive.
  • Impressive Results: The rich flavor, perfectly moist texture, and appealing aroma of this pumpkin bread are sure to impress family, friends, and coworkers alike. It’s a sophisticated yet approachable treat, ideal for potlucks, brunches, or simply as a thoughtful gift.
  • Perfect Companion: A warm slice of this pumpkin bread pairs exquisitely with your morning coffee, afternoon tea, or as a comforting dessert. Its balanced sweetness and spice profile make it versatile for any occasion, offering a moment of pure bliss.
  • Authentic Fall Flavors: Every bite delivers the quintessential taste of autumn, thanks to the star ingredient – pumpkin puree – and the harmonious blend of pumpkin pie spices. It’s a sensory journey that evokes crisp air, changing leaves, and cozy gatherings.
  • Beginner-Friendly: Even if you’re new to baking, the straightforward steps and forgiving nature of this recipe ensure success. It’s a great way to build confidence in the kitchen and create something truly homemade.

This recipe is more than just a quick bread; it’s an invitation to embrace the joys of simple, delicious homemade baking.

Essential Ingredients for Your Amish Pumpkin Bread

Gathering your ingredients is the first step towards creating this delightful fall treat. You’ll find that many of these items are common kitchen staples, making this recipe incredibly accessible.

A flat lay photograph showcasing all the dry and wet ingredients neatly arranged, ready to be used for Amish Pumpkin Bread.
Ingredients for Amish Pumpkin Bread

Dry Ingredients:

  • All-Purpose Flour: Provides the fundamental structure for our bread. Sifting it can help ensure an even texture.
  • Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the bread and contributes to its moistness and tender crumb.
  • Baking Soda: Our primary leavening agent, which reacts with the sour cream and pumpkin puree to create a beautiful rise.
  • Pumpkin Pie Spice: The heart of our fall flavor! This blend typically includes cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves, delivering that signature autumnal aroma and taste.
  • Salt: A crucial flavor enhancer, balancing the sweetness and deepening the overall taste profile.

Wet Ingredients:

  • Pumpkin Puree: The star ingredient, offering rich pumpkin flavor, vibrant color, and essential moisture. Ensure you’re using pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling.
  • Eggs: Act as a binder, contributing to the structure and richness of the bread.
  • Sour Cream: A secret weapon for ultimate moisture and a tender crumb. Its acidity also helps activate the baking soda.
  • Unsalted Butter: Adds a luxurious richness and depth of flavor. Melting and cooling it ensures it incorporates smoothly into the batter.
  • Vanilla Extract: Enhances all the other flavors, adding a subtle warmth and complexity.

Using these quality ingredients, you’re well on your way to baking a truly unforgettable loaf of Amish Pumpkin Bread. For precise quantities, refer to the full recipe details typically found at the bottom of a recipe post.

Recipe Walkthrough: Baking Your Perfect Pumpkin Bread

Baking this Amish Pumpkin Bread is a straightforward process, true to its simple origins. Follow these steps for a wonderfully moist and flavorful loaf. Remember, precise details and measurements are often provided in a dedicated recipe card section.

A four-panel collage showing the step-by-step process of mixing ingredients and pouring batter for Amish Pumpkin Bread.
Step-by-Step Pumpkin Bread Preparation

Simple Steps for Success:

  • Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together your all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, and salt until thoroughly combined. Whisking ensures that the leavening agents and spices are evenly distributed, leading to a consistent rise and flavor throughout the bread. Set this bowl aside.
  • Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients. In a separate, equally large mixing bowl, add the pumpkin puree, eggs, sour cream, melted and cooled unsalted butter, and vanilla extract. Whisk these wet ingredients together until they are smooth and well-integrated. This separate mixing helps prevent overmixing later, which can lead to a tough bread.
  • Step 3: Gently Combine. Pour the dry ingredients into the bowl with the wet ingredients. Using a whisk or spatula, mix until just combined. The key here is not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly acceptable. Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour too much, resulting in a dense, chewy texture rather than a tender one.
  • Step 4: Prepare and Bake. Pour the prepared pumpkin bread batter evenly into a greased loaf tin (a standard 9×5-inch pan works best). Ensure your oven is preheated to the correct temperature. Bake for approximately 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 20 minutes, or until a wooden skewer or toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with moist crumbs attached.
A freshly baked Amish Pumpkin Bread loaf, golden brown and still in its baking pan, resting on a wire cooling rack.
Amish Pumpkin Bread Cooling in Pan
  • Step 5: Cool Completely. Once baked, remove the loaf tin from the oven and allow the bread to cool in the pan on a wire rack for at least 10-15 minutes. This crucial resting period allows the bread to set and prevents it from crumbling when removed. After this initial cooling, carefully invert the loaf onto the wire rack to cool completely.

Pro Tip: Patience is a virtue when it comes to quick breads! Resist the urge to slice into your delicious Amish Pumpkin Bread until it has cooled completely. Slicing warm bread can cause it to tear and compromise its perfect texture. However, if the irresistible aroma is too much to bear, a warm slice, though less perfectly formed, is still utterly divine!

Creative Variations & Substitute Ideas for Your Pumpkin Bread

One of the beauties of a simple, classic recipe like Amish Pumpkin Bread is its adaptability. Feel free to experiment with these variations and substitutions to tailor the bread to your taste and what you have on hand. These small changes can open up a world of new flavors and textures!

  • Mayonnaise instead of Sour Cream: For an incredibly moist and rich crumb, swap out the sour cream for an equal amount of mayonnaise. Don’t worry, you won’t taste the mayo; it simply adds fat and emulsification, resulting in an ultra-tender loaf.
  • Brown Sugar instead of Granulated Sugar: Replacing some or all of the granulated white sugar with brown sugar will introduce a deeper, more caramel-like flavor and an even chewier texture to your pumpkin bread.
  • Chocolate Chips: Stir in a cup of your favorite chocolate chips (dark, semi-sweet, or white chocolate all work beautifully) into the batter before baking for a delightful surprise in every bite.
  • Cream Cheese instead of Sour Cream: For a slightly tangier and richer flavor, cream cheese can be an excellent substitute for sour cream, enhancing the bread’s moistness.
  • Poppy Seeds: If you enjoy the subtle crunch and nutty flavor of poppy seeds, add a tablespoon or two to the dry ingredients for an interesting textural contrast.
  • Raisins or Other Dried Fruits: A cup of plump raisins, dried cranberries, or chopped dried apricots can add bursts of sweetness and chewiness to the bread, complementing the fall spices.
  • Olive Oil or Coconut Oil for Greasing: Instead of traditional butter or cooking spray, use olive oil or melted coconut oil to grease your loaf pan for a slightly different flavor profile and potentially healthier option.
  • Maple Syrup as a Partial Sweetener: Substitute a portion of the granulated sugar with pure maple syrup for a distinct autumnal flavor. Remember that maple syrup also adds liquid, so you might need to slightly adjust other wet ingredients.
  • Whole Wheat Flour: For a heartier and more nutritious loaf, substitute up to half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. This will result in a denser bread with a nutty flavor.
  • Nutty Additions: Roughly chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds can be folded into the batter for added crunch and earthy flavor.
  • Zest it Up: A teaspoon of orange or lemon zest can brighten the flavors, offering a lovely aromatic lift to the pumpkin and spices.

Don’t be afraid to get creative and make this recipe truly your own! Each variation offers a unique twist on this classic fall treat.

Close up side view of a sliced Amish Pumpkin Bread loaf, showing its moist, tender crumb and two perfect slices ready to be eaten.
Sliced Amish Pumpkin Bread

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Essential Equipment for Perfect Pumpkin Bread

Having the right tools can make all the difference in your baking experience. While this recipe is designed to be simple, a few key pieces of equipment will ensure smooth sailing from start to finish. We’ve included links to our recommended items, which are affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, we may earn from qualifying purchases.

Here’s a list of the basic gear you’ll need to create your delicious Amish Pumpkin Bread:

  • Large Mixing Bowls: Essential for keeping your dry and wet ingredients separate before combining. Glass or stainless steel bowls are excellent choices.
  • Whisk: Perfect for blending dry ingredients and combining wet ingredients smoothly. A good quality whisk ensures no lumps.
  • Hand Mixer (Optional but helpful): While a whisk is sufficient, a hand mixer can make quick work of combining the wet ingredients, especially if your butter isn’t perfectly melted and cooled.
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accuracy is key in baking, so reliable measuring tools are a must.
  • Rubber Spatula: Great for scraping down the sides of the bowl and gently folding ingredients, ensuring no batter is wasted.
  • 9×5-inch Loaf Pan: The ideal size for this recipe, ensuring the bread bakes evenly and achieves the classic loaf shape. Non-stick pans are often preferred for easy release.
  • Wire Cooling Rack: Crucial for allowing your pumpkin bread to cool properly, preventing a soggy bottom and promoting even airflow.
  • Toothpicks or Wooden Skewer: For testing the doneness of your bread – a simple yet effective tool.

With these basic kitchen essentials, you’ll be ready to bake a flawless loaf of Amish Pumpkin Bread!

Delightful Companions: Related Recipes to Explore

If you’ve enjoyed the heartwarming simplicity of this Amish Pumpkin Bread, you’ll love these other comforting and easy-to-make recipes. Many share the same spirit of homemade goodness and classic flavors.

  • Banana Bread Made With Mayo
  • Cajun Cornbread Recipe
  • Amish Pumpkin Pie Recipe
  • No Bake Mini Pumpkin Pies
  • White Pumpkin Pie
  • No Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars
  • Amish Cinnamon Rolls

For an even broader selection of seasonal treats, I also highly recommend checking out this fabulous list of over 60 delicious Fall Bread Recipes. There’s truly something for everyone to love!

Storing Your Delicious Pumpkin Bread for Freshness

Proper storage is key to maintaining the delightful moisture and flavor of your homemade Amish Pumpkin Bread. Whether you plan to enjoy it over a few days or save it for later, here’s how to keep it at its best:

At Room Temperature (Up to 5 Days):

Once your pumpkin bread has completely cooled (this is vital!), transfer it to an airtight container. For an extra measure of freshness and to prevent excess moisture from making the bread soggy, place a piece of paper towel both on top and underneath the loaf before sealing the container. The paper towel helps absorb any condensation, keeping the bread perfectly moist without becoming gummy. Store the container in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Freezing (Up to 6 Months):

Amish Pumpkin Bread freezes beautifully, making it an excellent candidate for meal prep or saving for future cravings. To freeze, ensure the loaf is entirely cool. First, wrap the entire loaf tightly in a layer of aluminum foil. This provides a barrier against freezer burn. Next, wrap it again in a layer of plastic wrap, creating a double seal for maximum protection. Clearly label the package with the date, then freeze for up to 6 months. To thaw, simply unwrap the frozen bread and let it come to room temperature on your countertop, or gently warm slices in the microwave or oven.

Following these simple storage tips will ensure every slice of your pumpkin bread remains as delicious as the first!

Mel’s Kitchen Notes for Baking Success

A Baker’s Best Friend: The Toothpick Test. It’s essential to always verify the doneness of your pumpkin bread before pulling it from the oven. While a recipe might suggest a specific baking time, oven temperatures can vary, and what’s done in one oven might not be in another. For instance, I initially expected this recipe to be fully cooked in 1 hour, but found it needed more time. The most reliable method is the classic toothpick test: insert a wooden skewer or toothpick into the very center of the bread (often through a natural crevice on the top). If it comes out clean, or with only a few moist crumbs attached, your bread is perfectly baked. If it’s wet with batter, continue baking for another 5-10 minutes and re-test.

A perfect slice of Amish Pumpkin Bread resting on a white plate, with a steaming cup of coffee blurred in the background, ready for a cozy moment.
Amish Pumpkin Bread with Coffee

Frequently Asked Questions: Your Pumpkin Bread Queries Answered

Here are some common questions about baking and enjoying Amish Pumpkin Bread, along with helpful answers to ensure your success.

Why is my pumpkin bread too moist, or even gummy?

There are a few common culprits when pumpkin bread turns out overly moist or gummy. First, using too much of the wet ingredients (pumpkin puree, sour cream, eggs, or butter) can throw off the batter’s balance. Always measure carefully! Second, overmixing the batter can develop the gluten too much, leading to a chewy, dense, and sometimes gummy texture. Mix until just combined. Lastly, allowing the batter to sit too long before baking can sometimes lead to an overly moist result as the flour absorbs more liquid. It’s best to bake the batter relatively soon after mixing.

How long does pumpkin bread typically last?

When stored properly, homemade pumpkin bread can maintain its delicious freshness for a good amount of time. At room temperature, in an airtight container with a piece of paper towel to absorb excess moisture, a loaf of pumpkin bread can last for up to 5 days. If refrigerated, it can extend its shelf life by a few more days, although the texture might firm up slightly. For longer storage, freezing the bread (as detailed in the storage section above) is an excellent option, allowing it to last for up to 6 months.

Can I use homemade pumpkin puree?

Absolutely! Homemade pumpkin puree can bring an even fresher flavor to your bread. Just be sure that your homemade puree is thick and not too watery. If it’s very thin, you might want to drain some of the excess liquid by letting it sit in a fine-mesh sieve lined with cheesecloth for an hour or two before using it in the recipe.

What kind of loaf pan is best?

A standard 9×5-inch loaf pan is ideal for this recipe. Metal pans conduct heat more efficiently, leading to a better crust, while lighter colored pans prevent over-browning. Greasing and flouring your pan, or using parchment paper, will help prevent sticking and ensure easy release of your beautiful loaf.

More Pumpkin Delights You’ll Absolutely Love

If you’re a true pumpkin enthusiast, then the autumn season is a culinary playground! Beyond the classic pumpkin bread, there’s a world of pumpkin-infused treats waiting to be discovered. Here are some of our other favorite pumpkin recipes that are sure to bring warmth and flavor to your home.

  • No Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars
  • Pumpkin Spice Macarons
  • Pumpkin Cookies with Cake Mix
  • Amish Pumpkin Pie Recipe
  • Pumpkin Spice Donuts

Whether you’re craving a rich dessert, a delicate pastry, or a quick snack, these pumpkin recipes offer diverse ways to enjoy the iconic flavor of the season.


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Amish Pumpkin Bread Recipe

This Amish pumpkin bread recipe is perfectly moist with just the right amount of pumpkin pie spice to give you all the flavors of fall. It’s a simple, no-frills approach to baking that yields incredibly delicious results, ideal for enjoying with your morning coffee or as a comforting autumn treat.
Prep Time

5
Cook Time

1 15
Total Time

1 20
Yields:
8 servings
Cuisine:
American
Author:
Melanie Cagle

Equipment

  • OXO Good Grips 11-Inch Balloon Whisk,Black
  • Hand Mixer (optional)
  • Glass Mixing Bowls
  • Wilton Loaf Pan (9×5 inches)
  • Wire Cooling Rack

Ingredients

  • 1-½ Cups All Purpose Flour
  • 1-¼ Cups Granulated Sugar
  • 1 teaspoon Baking Soda
  • 2 teaspoons Pumpkin Pie Spice
  • ½ teaspoon Salt
  • 1 (15 Ounce) Can Pumpkin Puree
  • 2 Each Large Eggs
  • ½ Cup Sour Cream
  • ½ Cup Unsalted Butter (melted and cooled)
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan, or line with parchment paper.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine all the dry ingredients: all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, salt, and pumpkin pie spice. Whisk thoroughly until well combined, ensuring no lumps of spice remain. Set aside.
  3. In a separate large mixing bowl, add the wet ingredients: pumpkin puree, large eggs, sour cream, melted and cooled unsalted butter, and vanilla extract. Whisk these ingredients together until smooth and well blended.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Mix using a whisk or spatula until just incorporated. Be careful not to overmix; a few small lumps are fine and help keep the bread tender.
  5. Pour the prepared pumpkin bread batter evenly into your greased 9×5-inch loaf tin. Use a spatula to gently spread and even out the top of the batter.
  6. Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 70-80 minutes. Baking time can vary, so monitor closely.
  7. To check for doneness, insert a wooden skewer or toothpick into the center of the loaf. It should come out clean or with only a few moist crumbs attached. If wet batter is present, continue baking in 5-10 minute increments until done.
  8. Once baked, remove the loaf from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan on a wire rack for 10-15 minutes. This helps the bread set. Then, carefully remove the loaf from the pan and place it directly on the wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Recipe Notes

Baking times are approximate. My oven typically bakes this Amish pumpkin bread in about 1 hour and 15 minutes, but your oven may differ. Always use the toothpick test (insert into the center) to ensure the bread is fully cooked; it should come out clean or with only moist crumbs. Avoid slicing until completely cool to maintain texture.

Nutrition Information

(Approximate values per serving, based on 8 servings)


Calories: 662kcal
|

Carbohydrates: 127g
|

Protein: 6g
|

Fat: 16g
|

Saturated Fat: 9g
|

Polyunsaturated Fat: 5g
|

Trans Fat: 1g
|

Cholesterol: 85mg
|

Sodium: 406mg
|

Fiber: 2g
|

Sugar: 102g