Easy Streusel Pumpkin Bread Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a cozy, comforting treat that captures the essence of fall, you simply must try this Easy Streusel Pumpkin Bread Recipe. It’s a wonderful mix of moist pumpkin-spiced loaf and a crumbly, buttery streusel topping that adds just the right amount of crunch. The wonderful aroma as it bakes fills your kitchen with warm spices, inviting you to slice up a piece (or two) and savor every bite. Whether you’re baking for guests or just indulging yourself, this bread feels like an embrace in food form.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Easy Streusel Pumpkin Bread Recipe is how it uses simple, everyday ingredients that come together to create a rich, flavorful bread. Each one plays an important role—from the pumpkin puree giving the bread its signature moistness and color, to the mix of warming spices that bring depth and cozy autumn vibes.

• 3/4 cups all-purpose flour: The base that holds everything together while providing a tender crumb.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the bread rise perfectly fluffy and light.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the other flavors.
• 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: The star spice that gives pumpkin bread its signature aroma and warmth.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds subtle depth and a hint of sweetness with a bit of nutty undertone.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger: Provides a gentle zing that brightens the spice mix.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves: A small pinch brings complexity without overpowering the bread.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Enriches the bread with creamy texture and moistness.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Brings sweetness that pairs perfectly with the spices and pumpkin.
• 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients and add richness.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Boosts flavor with a warm, fragrant note.
• 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree: The heart of the bread, delivering moisture, natural sweetness, and vibrant color.
• 1/4 cup buttermilk: Makes the bread tender and adds a slight tang that balances the sweetness.
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional): For an extra layer of crunch and nutty flavor in the batter.
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour (for streusel): Provides structure for the crumbly topping.
• 1/4 cup packed brown sugar: Adds caramel notes and stickiness to the streusel.
• 1/4 cup rolled oats: Brings rustic texture to the crunchy topping.
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened (for streusel): Binds the streusel and gives it that irresistible buttery flavor.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for streusel): Ties the topping into the warm spiced theme.

How to Make Easy Streusel Pumpkin Bread Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures it’s perfectly hot and ready for baking once your batter is mixed. Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan thoroughly so your pumpkin bread releases easily after baking without sticking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Spices and Flour

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. This step ensures that all the spices distribute evenly throughout the batter, giving each bite that comforting, balanced spice flavor.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy — about 2 to 3 minutes. This creates a smooth base for your batter and helps achieve that moist, tender texture that pumpkin bread is known for.

Step 4: Add Eggs, Vanilla, and Pumpkin

Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then stir in the vanilla extract followed by the luscious pumpkin puree. The pumpkin is what keeps this bread wonderfully moist and full of that iconic flavor.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry flour and spice mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and end with the dry mixture, mixing gently until everything is just combined. Overmixing can make the bread tough, so it’s important to fold ingredients carefully. If you’re adding walnuts, gently fold them in at this point for a delightful crunch throughout.

Step 6: Prepare the Streusel Topping

In a small bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, rolled oats, cinnamon, and softened butter. Use your fingers or a fork to mix until the mixture is crumbly and holds together a little when pressed. This streusel is the showstopper that adds texture and extra sweetness.

Step 7: Assemble the Bread and Add Streusel

Pour your batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top gently. Evenly sprinkle the streusel topping over the batter, covering it as much as possible to ensure a crunchy finish on every slice.

Step 8: Bake Until Golden

Bake in your preheated oven for about 60 to 70 minutes. The bread is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs clinging to it. The aroma at this stage is absolutely heavenly!

Step 9: Cool Before Slicing

Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes so it sets up nicely, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling step helps prevent your slices from crumbling and keeps the texture perfect.

How to Serve Easy Streusel Pumpkin Bread Recipe

Garnishes

For an extra touch, spread a bit of softened butter, cream cheese, or even a drizzle of honey over a warm slice of this pumpkin bread. Toasted pecans scattered on top can elevate the nuttiness while a light dusting of powdered sugar adds a pretty finish.

Side Dishes

This pumpkin bread pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee, chai tea, or even a spiced latte. If you’re enjoying it as part of brunch or afternoon tea, consider serving alongside fresh fruit or a light salad for a balanced spread.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut the bread into smaller squares for bite-sized snacks perfect for gatherings. You can also layer slices with cream cheese and sliced apples or pears to create mini pumpkin bread sandwiches that are sure to impress family and friends.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover pumpkin bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you plan to keep it longer, pop it in the fridge where it will stay fresh for about a week without drying out.

Freezing

This Easy Streusel Pumpkin Bread Recipe freezes wonderfully. Wrap the whole loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or freeze slices individually in resealable bags. Frozen bread will maintain its quality for up to 3 months.

Reheating

To bring your pumpkin bread back to life, warm slices in a toaster oven or microwave for 15-20 seconds. This refreshing step revives the buttery moisture and makes the streusel topping delightfully crisp again.

FAQs

Can I use canned pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree?

It’s best to use plain pumpkin puree because canned pumpkin pie filling contains added sugars and spices, which can alter the flavor and texture of the bread.

What can I substitute for buttermilk?

If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, mix 1/4 cup milk with 1 teaspoon lemon juice or vinegar and let it sit for 5 minutes before using. This mimics the acidity of buttermilk needed for tender bread.

Can I omit the walnuts in the bread?

Absolutely! The walnuts are optional and can be omitted if you prefer a nut-free bread or want a softer texture. You can also swap them for other nuts or seeds if you like.

How do I know when the bread is fully baked?

Use a toothpick or skewer inserted into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, the bread is done. If it’s wet or batter sticks, bake a little longer.

Can this bread be made into muffins?

Definitely! Spoon the batter into a greased or lined muffin tin and bake at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes, checking for doneness with a toothpick.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Streusel Pumpkin Bread Recipe has quickly become one of my favorite go-to treats for cozy mornings and chilly afternoons. It’s simple, forgiving, and packed with all those irresistible flavors that make fall truly special. I can’t wait for you to bake it, share it, and enjoy every sweet, spiced bite just as much as I do.

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