Pumpkin Bread with Maple Glaze Recipe

Pumpkin Bread with Maple Glaze—A Cozy Classic for Every Season

Few things evoke the essence of comfort and home quite like the aroma of freshly baked pumpkin bread wafting through the kitchen. The warm, spicy scent of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves mingling with the earthy sweetness of pumpkin is nothing short of magical—a fragrant invitation to slow down, savor, and share.

Pumpkin bread, a beloved staple in American baking, carries with it the spirit of autumn but has the power to delight year-round. Its roots trace back to the age-old tradition of quick breads—simple, rustic loaves crafted from pantry staples that could be made quickly and easily without yeast or long rising times. This particular variation, enriched with warm spices and moist pumpkin puree, transforms humble ingredients into something truly special.

Yet, what truly elevates this pumpkin bread to a next-level treat is the maple glaze drizzled on top—a sweet, silky finish that adds a delicate sheen and an irresistible depth of flavor. Maple syrup, often called “liquid gold,” pairs beautifully with the spice and richness of pumpkin, marrying two iconic flavors of the season into one unforgettable bite.

Whether you’re baking for a holiday gathering, a cozy weekend breakfast, or simply to fill your home with comforting scents, this recipe is designed to be approachable, reliable, and endlessly adaptable. From the first moist, tender slice to the last sticky drip of maple glaze, every moment is a celebration of flavor and tradition.

In this guide, you’ll discover not only the step-by-step instructions for baking perfect pumpkin bread with luscious maple glaze but also tips for choosing the best pumpkin, mastering the right texture, and customizing the spices and add-ins to suit your taste. We’ll explore the history and cultural significance of pumpkin baking, share creative twists for adventurous bakers, and offer serving suggestions that make this bread shine whether it’s on your holiday table or your everyday countertop.

More than just a recipe, this is an invitation to slow down, embrace the simple joys of baking, and create moments that linger long after the last crumb is gone.

So, preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and prepare to fill your kitchen with the unmistakable warmth and sweetness of homemade pumpkin bread with maple glaze—the perfect slice of cozy in every bite.

Detailed Instructions for Pumpkin Bread with Maple Glaze

Step 1: Gather and Prepare Your Ingredients

Before you begin, it’s important to assemble all your ingredients. Having everything measured and ready will ensure a smooth baking process.

Dry Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled for accuracy)

• 1 teaspoon baking soda

• ½ teaspoon baking powder

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg

• ¼ teaspoon ground cloves

• ¼ teaspoon ground ginger

• ½ teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups pumpkin puree (canned or homemade, 100% pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling)

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• ½ cup brown sugar, packed

• 2 large eggs, room temperature

• ½ cup vegetable oil (or melted coconut oil for subtle flavor)

• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

For the Maple Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted

• 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup

• 1–2 tablespoons milk or heavy cream (adjust for desired consistency)

• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Step 2: Preheat Oven and Prepare the Pan

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This moderate temperature ensures even baking without drying out the bread.

2. Grease a standard 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or nonstick spray. For extra insurance against sticking, line the pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides to lift the bread out easily once cooled.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, ginger, and salt.

2. Whisking helps distribute the leavening agents and spices evenly, ensuring consistent texture and flavor throughout the bread.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk the pumpkin puree until smooth.

2. Add granulated sugar and brown sugar, stirring to combine thoroughly.

3. Add the eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition.

4. Stir in the oil and vanilla extract until the mixture is uniform and glossy.

Tip: Using room-temperature eggs helps the batter emulsify better, resulting in a finer crumb.

Step 5: Incorporate Dry Ingredients into Wet

1. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture.

2. Fold gently using a spatula or wooden spoon until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—overworking the batter develops gluten in the flour, which can make the bread tough.

3. The batter should be thick and smooth, with no large pockets of flour remaining.

Step 6: Pour Batter into Prepared Pan

1. Transfer the batter to your prepared loaf pan.

2. Smooth the top with a spatula to create an even surface.

3. Tap the pan gently on the counter to release any air bubbles, helping to prevent large holes in the finished bread.

Step 7: Bake the Pumpkin Bread

1. Place the pan in the preheated oven.

2. Bake for 55 to 65 minutes, or until a toothpick or cake tester inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.

3. About halfway through baking, you may want to tent the bread loosely with aluminum foil if it’s browning too quickly on top.

4. The bread will rise and develop a golden-brown crust, while remaining moist inside.

Step 8: Cool the Bread

1. Remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10–15 minutes.

2. Use the parchment paper overhang to gently lift the bread from the pan and transfer it to a wire rack.

3. Allow the bread to cool completely before glazing. Glazing warm bread can cause the glaze to melt and run off.

Step 9: Prepare the Maple Glaze

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and maple syrup.

2. Add milk or cream one tablespoon at a time until you reach a smooth, pourable consistency.

3. Stir in vanilla extract if desired for an extra layer of flavor.

Tip: If the glaze is too thin, add more powdered sugar; if too thick, add more milk/cream in tiny increments.

Step 10: Glaze the Pumpkin Bread

1. Once the bread is completely cooled, drizzle the maple glaze evenly over the top.

2. Use a spoon or a small whisk to drizzle, allowing the glaze to naturally pool and drip down the sides.

3. Let the glaze set at room temperature for 20–30 minutes before slicing.

Step 11: Slice and Serve

1. Use a serrated knife to slice the bread into thick or thin pieces, depending on your preference.

2. Serve plain or with a pat of butter or cream cheese spread for extra indulgence.

3. Store leftovers tightly wrapped at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

Tips for Baking Success

• Pumpkin Puree: Use 100% pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling, which contains added spices and sweeteners.

• Spices: Freshly ground spices bring the most vibrant flavor—consider grinding your own nutmeg or cinnamon.

• Moisture Control: Measuring flour by spooning it into the measuring cup rather than scooping helps avoid dense bread.

• Mix-ins: Add chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or dried cranberries for texture and bursts of flavor.

• Pan Choice: For a more rustic shape, bake in a loaf-shaped cake pan or mini loaf pans for individual servings.