Apple Pumpkin Bread Recipe
Introduction
Apple Pumpkin Bread combines two classic fall favorites in one wonderfully moist loaf. Pumpkin puree adds richness and tenderness, while juicy diced apples bring natural sweetness and soft fruity bites throughout. Warm cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger make every slice taste cozy and aromatic. Easy to mix and bake, this quick bread is perfect for breakfast, afternoon snacking, holiday brunches, or enjoying with a warm cup of coffee.
⏱️ Prep Time
20 minutes
๐ณ Cook Time
55 minutes
๐ Total Time
1 hour 15 minutes
๐ก️ Oven Temperature
350°F (175°C)
๐งฉ Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Pumpkin Puree: Adds moisture, richness, and classic pumpkin flavor. Use well-drained homemade pumpkin puree if preferred.
- Fresh Apples: Provide juicy sweetness and tender fruit throughout the loaf. Pears can be substituted for a softer, milder flavor.
- Brown Sugar: Adds caramel-like sweetness and helps keep the bread moist. Coconut sugar works as a substitute.
- Pumpkin Pie Spice: Gives the loaf its warm autumn flavor. Use cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves individually if needed.
- Vegetable Oil: Keeps the bread soft and moist. Melted butter can be substituted for a richer, buttery taste.
- All-Purpose Flour: Creates the structure needed for a tender quick bread. A 1:1 baking flour can be substituted.
❓ TIPS SECTION
- Choose firm apples that hold their shape when baked, such as Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Pink Lady.
- Dice the apples into small, evenly sized pieces so they distribute throughout the batter and cook evenly.
- Use plain pumpkin puree rather than pumpkin pie filling, which already contains sugar and spices.
- Avoid overmixing after adding the flour to keep the finished loaf soft and tender.
๐งบ Ingredients You'll Need
- 1¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1½ cups peeled and finely diced apples
- ¾ cup packed brown sugar
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- 1½ teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts, optional
๐ฉ๐ณ Step-by-Step
1. Prepare the Pan
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients
Whisk together the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, milk, and vanilla until smooth and well combined.
3. Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. Add the dry mixture to the pumpkin mixture.
4. Add the Apples
Gently fold the batter together until just combined, then fold in the diced apples and chopped nuts if using. Do not overmix the batter.
5. Bake the Bread
Transfer the batter to the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
6. Cool & Serve
Cool the loaf in the pan for 10–15 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack. Allow it to cool before slicing so the moist crumb can fully set.
๐ฟ Garnish & Serving
- Sprinkle the top with chopped pecans or pumpkin seeds before baking.
- Drizzle cooled slices with maple glaze for extra sweetness.
- Serve warm with salted butter, cream cheese, or apple butter.
๐ง Storage
Store completely cooled apple pumpkin bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Refrigerate for up to 5 days for longer freshness. Wrap individual slices tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature and warm gently before serving.
⏰ Make Ahead
Bake the loaf up to 2 days ahead and keep it tightly wrapped. You can also freeze the cooled loaf or individual slices and thaw them when needed.
๐ Variations
- Apple Pecan Pumpkin Bread: Add ½ cup toasted chopped pecans for extra crunch and nutty flavor.
- Cranberry Apple Pumpkin Bread: Fold in ½ cup dried cranberries for a sweet-tart contrast.
- Maple Apple Pumpkin Bread: Replace ¼ cup of the brown sugar with pure maple syrup and drizzle the cooled loaf with maple glaze.
๐ฝ️ Serving Pairings
- Apple Butter: A spoonful of apple butter enhances the fruity fall flavors.
- Hot Coffee: Rich coffee balances the sweetness and warm spices beautifully.
- Vanilla Yogurt: Serve slices with creamy vanilla yogurt for a simple breakfast or snack.
This moist apple pumpkin bread brings together juicy apples, rich pumpkin, and warm spices for the perfect cozy fall loaf.
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