Old Fashioned Southern Pumpkin Bread Recipe – Gourmet And Food

Before diving into the delightful world of Old Fashioned Southern Pumpkin Bread, let’s chat about what pairs well with this seasonal delight. Imagine this warming loaf on a pretty fall day, the sun setting behind a tree line sprinkled with twinkling gold leaves. 

A cup of spiced chai or rich coffee is a natural companion. The warmth of the beverage complements the cozy vibes of the bread.

You can also serve it with cream cheese frosting for those with a sweet tooth or enjoy it with a smear of butter and a drizzle of honey for a simple yet satisfying treat. Fresh fruit—think apple slices or a bowl of berries—are also a smart addition, adding a bright, juicy contrast. Let’s get cooking!

The Sweet Allure of Old Fashioned Southern Pumpkin Bread

Gather ‘round, friends! Let me share with you the heartwarming story behind my favorite autumn recipe: Old Fashioned Southern Pumpkin Bread. 

There’s something utterly comforting about pumpkin bread. The aroma alone can transport you back to your grandmother's kitchen, with memories of laughter and warm hugs swirling around you.

Growing up in the South, I was surrounded by the rich culture of home cooking. Pumpkin bread was a staple in our autumn celebrations. Moist, warmly spiced, and beautifully golden, it represents tradition and love. This recipe honors those memories while also inviting you to create a few of your own.

So, what exactly is Old Fashioned Southern Pumpkin Bread?

What is Old Fashioned Southern Pumpkin Bread?

Old Fashioned Southern Pumpkin Bread is more than just a seasonal treat; it’s a warm embrace on a chilly day. Typically made with canned pumpkin puree, this bread is rich in flavor thanks to spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. 

Unlike cake, which tends to be airy, this bread has a dense yet moist texture that feels substantial.

It’s simple at its core—just flour, sugar, and the star player, pumpkin. The layers of flavor come from those lovely spices and perhaps a hint of orange zest for that touch of brightness.

How Does It Taste Like?

Biting into a slice of this pumpkin bread is like savoring a perfectly autumnal moment. The initial taste is of earthy sweetness, balanced by the spices that dance on your tongue. 

Each mouthful gives warmth, comfort, and richness without being overly heavy. Toss in some chopped walnuts or chocolate chips, and you elevate the experience even further.

Imagine the delight: warm bread straight from the oven, butter melting over it, or paired with a cup of your favorite warm drink. Pure bliss!

Why You'll Love This?

You’ll love Old Fashioned Southern Pumpkin Bread for several reasons. First, it’s easy to make and doesn’t require specialized skills or unusual ingredients. It’s also a fantastic way to use up that can of pumpkin puree sitting in your pantry.

It’s versatile. It can be served for breakfast, as an afternoon snack, or even for dessert. Plus, it makes for an incredible gift during the holidays—who wouldn’t appreciate a loaf of love?

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up your very own Old Fashioned Southern Pumpkin Bread:

• 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
  The centerpiece of the recipe. Choose quality brands for a rich flavor.
• 2 large eggs
  These add moisture and help bind all the ingredients.
• ½ cup canola oil (or vegetable oil)
  For a tender texture, no need for butter here!
• 1¼ cups granulated sugar
  Sweetness is key!
• ¼ cup packed light brown sugar
  This adds a delightful caramel flavor.
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
  A little splash goes a long way.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  The warm hug of autumn in spice form.
• 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  Pronounced flavor, pairs wonderfully with pumpkin.
• 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
  A delightful blend of spices that adds depth.
• ½ teaspoon ground cloves and ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
  For more complexity and warmth.
• 1¾ cups all-purpose flour
  The structure of our bread.
• 1½ teaspoons baking soda
  The leavening agent that helps it rise.
• A pinch of salt (optional)
  Brings out all the flavors.
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional)
  Adds another layer of flavor.
• 1 teaspoon orange zest (optional)
  For a fresh, citrusy contrast.

Step-by-Step Directions

Let’s get to the practical part. Baking this delightful bread is as easy as pie (or, dare I say, bread?). Here’s how:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This gives time for the heat to build.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Pan

Grease a 9 × 5-inch loaf pan. You can use cooking spray, or a light coat of oil ensures your bread slides out easily later.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, pumpkin pie spice, cloves, ginger, and salt. This ensures that the baking soda is evenly distributed.

Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, beat together the canned pumpkin, eggs, granulated sugar, brown sugar, oil, vanilla extract, and any optional maple syrup or orange zest. Mix until smooth and combined.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Don’t overmix! A few lumps are perfectly fine.

Step 6: Pour Into Pan

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan. If you're adding nuts or chocolate chips, fold them in at this stage.

Step 7: Bake

Place in the preheated oven and let it bake for about 55-65 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool

Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is important for texture.

Tips on Making Old Fashioned Southern Pumpkin Bread

Creating the perfect loaf requires a little finesse. Here are some tips that might help:

• Choose quality ingredients. The fresher your ingredients, the better the taste.
• Don’t overmix. Mix until just combined to avoid a tough loaf.
• Check doneness with a toothpick. Always err on the side of less time; you can always bake it longer.
• Feel free to get creative. Add nuts, chocolate chips, or even dried fruits to customize your flavor profile.
• Let it cool completely. This impacts texture and makes slicing easier.

Nutrition Information

Here’s a general breakdown of what a slice of this Old Fashioned Southern Pumpkin Bread contains (based on about 12 slices per loaf):

• Calories: 180-220
• Protein: 3-4g
• Fat: 7-10g
• Carbohydrates: 30-35g
• Fiber: 1-2g
• Sugar: 12-15g

(This information may vary based on specific ingredients and additions.)

How Do You Store This Old Fashioned Southern Pumpkin Bread?

Storing your pumpkin bread properly ensures you enjoy it for days! Here's how:

• Room Temperature: If you plan to eat it within a few days, keep it wrapped in plastic wrap or foil at room temperature.
• Refrigerator: For longevity, store it in the fridge, wrapped tightly. It’ll last about a week.
• Freezing: Slice it up and wrap pieces in plastic, then place in a freezer bag. It can last up to three months. Just thaw as needed!

What Other Substitutes Can You Use in Old Fashioned Southern Pumpkin Bread?

If you find yourself short on some ingredients, here are some substitutes that work beautifully:

• Applesauce for Oil: Replace oil with an equal amount of applesauce for a lighter loaf.
• Brown Sugar for Granulated Sugar: Use brown sugar instead of granulated for a richer flavor.
• Yogurt for Eggs: One tablespoon of yogurt can replace an egg for moisture.
• Gluten-Free Flour: For a gluten-free version, use a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.
• Nutmeg for Allspice: In a pinch, allspice can substitute nutmeg for a different flavor profile.

Old Fashioned Southern Pumpkin Bread is more than just a recipe; it’s a nostalgic slice of life. Each bite tells a story, making it a perfect treat for fall gatherings, cozy weekends, or thoughtful gifts. 

Remember, this bread is exceptionally forgiving. So, whether you stick to the classic recipe or make it your own, it invites creativity in the kitchen.

So, mix it up! Get your favorite drinks ready, and whip up this cozy loaf. I can almost smell the spices wafting through the air. Happy baking!

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