If you’ve ever wanted to capture the cozy, irresistible flavors of fall in a single slice, you’re going to love Libby’s Pumpkin Bread Recipe. This beloved classic combines the perfect balance of warm spices and moist pumpkin goodness to create something that’s not just bread but a fragrant hug on a chilly day. The texture is heavenly—soft crumb meets just the right amount of density, making it perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert. What makes Libby’s Pumpkin Bread Recipe stand out is the use of Libby’s 100% Pure Pumpkin, lending an authentic and rich pumpkin flavor that simply can’t be beaten.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You don’t need a pantry full of fancy items to make this pumpkin bread magic happen; these ingredients are straightforward yet crucial. Each one plays a key role—from giving the bread its soft structure to imbuing that iconic pumpkin-spice aroma and taste.
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour: Provides the perfect base and structure for the bread without weighing it down.
- 3 cups granulated sugar: Adds just the right sweetness to complement the spices and pumpkin.
- 2 teaspoons baking soda: A leavening agent that helps the bread rise beautifully and become light.
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: The star warm spice that echoes the essence of fall.
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds a subtle nutty warmth that deepens the spice profile.
- ½ teaspoon ground cloves: Introduces a hint of earthiness that cuts through the sweetness perfectly.
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger: Gives a subtle zing that brightens the pumpkin flavor.
- 1 cup vegetable oil: Keeps the bread moist and tender without overpowering the flavors.
- 4 large eggs: Binds everything together, creating that perfect crumb you want in your pumpkin bread.
- 1 (15-ounce) can Libby’s 100% Pure Pumpkin: The pumpkin that brings authentic, rich flavor and moisture—absolutely essential to this recipe’s magic.
- 2/3 cup water: Adds moisture and helps balance the batter consistency for an even bake.
How to Make Libby’s Pumpkin Bread Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pans
Start by heating your oven up to the ideal 350°F (175°C). This helps your bread bake evenly from start to finish. Grease and flour two 9×5-inch loaf pans; this ensures your pumpkin bread will slide right out without sticking, preserving those beautiful edges.
Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger. This step releases the wonderful spice aromas and makes sure everything is evenly distributed, which means every bite will be perfectly spiced.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, eggs, Libby’s 100% Pure Pumpkin, and water until you have a smooth, homogenous mixture. The pumpkin adds moisture and flavor, while the eggs and oil ensure the bread stays tender and rich.
Step 4: Bring Wet and Dry Together
Gradually pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir gently just until combined—overmixing can make your bread tough, and we want soft, delicate crumb. The batter might look a little thick but don’t worry, that’s exactly how it should be.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Aromatic
Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared pans. Slide them into the oven and bake for 60 to 70 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the top is a luscious golden brown. The kitchen will smell absolutely amazing by this point!
Step 6: Cool and Enjoy
After baking, allow the loaves to cool for about 10 minutes in their pans. Then gently transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step helps the bread set properly so it slices beautifully without crumbling.
How to Serve Libby’s Pumpkin Bread Recipe
Garnishes
Nothing beats a slice of pumpkin bread buttered generously as it melts into every crack and crevice. You can also sprinkle a bit of cinnamon sugar on top or spread a tangy cream cheese frosting for a richer treat. A drizzle of honey or maple syrup adds an extra touch of sweetness that pairs perfectly with the spices.
Side Dishes
Pair your pumpkin bread with a hot cup of coffee, spiced chai tea, or a creamy latte to balance its sweetness and deepen the cozy experience. For brunch, it goes wonderfully alongside scrambled eggs or even a fresh fruit salad to keep things light.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re feeling festive, slice the bread into cubes and use them as a base for a pumpkin bread bread pudding, or toast slices and serve with whipped mascarpone and a dusting of nutmeg. It also makes for a delightful gift wrapped in parchment and tied with a rustic ribbon—everyone loves receiving a taste of homemade autumn!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap leftover slices tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. Keeping it sealed prevents the bread from drying out, so each slice remains moist and flavorful.
Freezing
You can freeze the loaf or individual slices by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then placing them in a freezer bag. This way, Libby’s Pumpkin Bread Recipe stays fresh for up to three months. Just thaw slices overnight in the fridge or at room temperature before enjoying.
Reheating
For that fresh-baked warmth, pop a slice in the microwave for about 15 seconds or toast it lightly. The gentle heat revives the bread’s softness and enhances the spice aromas, making it taste like it just came out of the oven all over again.
FAQs
Can I substitute fresh pumpkin for canned Libby’s 100% Pure Pumpkin?
While fresh pumpkin can be used, canned Libby’s Pumpkin offers consistency in moisture and flavor, making it a reliable choice for this recipe. If you do use fresh, roast and puree it thoroughly, making sure to drain excess water for the best texture.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
This version uses all-purpose flour, which contains gluten. For a gluten-free option, you could experiment with a gluten-free flour blend, but results may vary in texture and rise.
Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to Libby’s Pumpkin Bread Recipe?
Absolutely! Chopped walnuts, pecans, or mini chocolate chips make excellent additions and add delightful texture and flavor contrasts. Fold them into the batter right before pouring it into the pans.
What’s the best way to check if the bread is fully baked?
Use a wooden toothpick or cake tester inserted into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with a few dry crumbs but no wet batter, your pumpkin bread is perfectly baked.
How long does Libby’s Pumpkin Bread stay fresh?
At room temperature, the bread stays fresh for about 4 days when properly wrapped or stored in an airtight container. Refrigerating it can extend its life up to a week, though it may dry out faster so be sure to keep it well sealed.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting about baking and sharing Libby’s Pumpkin Bread Recipe. It’s more than just a loaf; it’s a warm invitation to slow down and savor those sweet moments. Whether you’re making it for a holiday gathering or a simple family breakfast, this recipe never fails to bring smiles—and maybe a few second helpings. So grab that can of Libby’s pumpkin, gather your spices, and treat yourself to this timeless favorite. Your kitchen and your taste buds will thank you.
Print
Libby’s Pumpkin Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 65 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings (two 9×5 inch loaves)
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Libby’s Pumpkin Bread is a classic moist and flavorful quick bread that combines warm spices with pure pumpkin puree for a comforting treat perfect for autumn and holiday gatherings. This easy-to-make recipe yields two loaves of tender bread with a sweet and spicy taste, ideal for breakfast, snacks, or dessert.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 3 cups granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon ground cloves
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs
- 1 (15-ounce) can Libby’s 100% Pure Pumpkin
- 2/3 cup water
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9×5-inch loaf pans to prepare them for the batter and prevent sticking.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground cloves, and ground ginger until evenly mixed.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate large bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, eggs, Libby’s pure pumpkin puree, and water until the mixture is smooth and homogenous.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the wet ingredient mixture to the bowl of dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined; be careful not to overmix to ensure the bread remains tender.
- Bake: Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared loaf pans. Place the pans in the preheated oven and bake for 60-70 minutes. Use a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaves to test doneness; it should come out clean when fully baked.
- Cool: Remove the loaves from the oven. Let them cool in the pans for 10 minutes to firm up, then transfer them onto a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Be careful not to overmix the batter to maintain a soft, tender crumb.
- Use room temperature eggs for better mixing and consistent texture.
- You can add chopped nuts or chocolate chips for variation.
- Store pumpkin bread wrapped tightly at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
- This bread freezes well; wrap in foil and freeze for up to 2 months.
