There’s something incredibly heartwarming about a slice of pumpkin bread topped with luscious cream cheese frosting, and that’s exactly what makes this Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe a true keeper. It perfectly balances the rich, moist texture of spiced pumpkin goodness with a velvety, tangy frosting that feels like a cozy hug in every bite. Whether you’re welcoming autumn or just craving a comforting treat, this recipe brings together simple, wholesome ingredients that transform into a loaf everyone will rave about.

Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe lies in its straightforward, thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a special role — from the warm spices that infuse deep flavor, to the pumpkin puree that delivers moisture and a beautiful autumnal color, to the cream cheese frosting that adds the perfect finishing touch of sweetness and creaminess.

1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour: The base that gives the bread its soft structure without weighing it down.
1 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a tender crumb.
½ cup brown sugar: Brings a rich, caramel-like depth to the flavor.
1 teaspoon baking soda: The leavening agent that helps the bread rise perfectly.
2 teaspoons cinnamon: Essential for that cozy, spicy warmth we love in pumpkin breads.
½ teaspoon nutmeg: A little dash adds complexity and a hint of nuttiness.
½ teaspoon ground ginger: Adds a subtle zing that brightens the spice mix.
½ teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all other flavors.
2 large eggs: Bind everything together and add richness.
1 ½ cups pumpkin puree: The star ingredient providing moisture, flavor, and that unmistakable pumpkin charm.
½ cup vegetable oil: Keeps the bread moist and tender without overpowering.
¼ cup milk (or dairy-free milk): Adds moisture and helps blend the ingredients smoothly.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A subtle sweetness that ties the flavors together beautifully.
4 ounces cream cheese, softened: For the rich and tangy frosting that makes this pumpkin bread unforgettable.
¼ cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds smoothness and richness to the frosting.
1 ½ cups powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting to creamy perfection.

How to Make Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Greasing a 9×5-inch loaf pan is essential to prevent sticking and ensure your bread has a nice shape and smooth edges. This simple prep sets you up for baking success.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ground ginger, and salt. This step is key to evenly distributing the leavening and spices so every bite bursts with flavor.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, beat the eggs lightly, then stir in the pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, milk, and vanilla extract. Mixing these first ensures a smooth, homogenous wet base that will blend seamlessly into the dry ingredients.

Step 4: Bring the Batter Together

Gradually add the wet ingredients into the dry mixture, folding gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing here—this keeps the bread tender and prevents it from becoming dense or tough.

Step 5: Bake the Bread

Pour your batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing out the top with a spatula. Bake for 55 to 65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The smell of warm spices will fill your kitchen—pure pumpkin bread bliss!

Step 6: Cool the Bread

Let your pumpkin bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes so it can set up slightly. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is crucial before frosting to prevent melting the cream cheese topping.

Step 7: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

Beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Add the vanilla extract, then slowly mix in the powdered sugar until you reach a luscious, spreadable texture. This frosting is what elevates the pumpkin bread to a whole new level of indulgence.

Step 8: Frost and Serve

Once your pumpkin bread is completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting generously on top. Slice and enjoy the perfect harmony of spicy, moist bread and creamy sweetness.

How to Serve Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Garnishes

Adding a little extra flair never hurts! Sprinkle chopped toasted pecans, a dusting of cinnamon, or even a few miniature chocolate chips over the frosting. These simple touches add texture and an extra pop of flavor that makes serving your pumpkin bread feel special.

Side Dishes

This pumpkin bread pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee, chai tea, or even a warm mug of spiced cider. For brunch, serve alongside creamy yogurt with honey and fresh fruit to balance the richness and bring fresh brightness to the plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Try cutting your loaf into thick slices and serving with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of maple syrup for added decadence. You could even turn slices into sandwich-style treats by layering more cream cheese frosting and perhaps a few slices of crisp apple for a delightful autumn-inspired snack.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your leftover pumpkin bread with cream cheese frosting should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This keeps the frosting fresh and the bread moist for up to 4 days—perfect for snacking or sharing over a few days.

Freezing

You can freeze the pumpkin bread without frosting. Wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and then add freshly made cream cheese frosting to keep that classic flavor intact.

Reheating

Warm individual slices gently in the microwave for about 15 seconds or in the oven at low temperature. This brings back the bread’s soft texture and releases the aroma of spices. Avoid reheating the frosting for too long to prevent it from melting too much.

FAQs

Can I use canned pumpkin puree for this recipe?

Absolutely! Canned pumpkin puree works perfectly and makes this Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe quick and convenient. Just ensure it’s pure pumpkin and not pie filling with added sugar.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute dairy-free cream cheese and use a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk. The texture and flavor will remain deliciously close to the original.

How do I know when the pumpkin bread is done baking?

The best test is inserting a toothpick or skewer into the center of the loaf; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, your bread is perfectly baked.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to the batter?

Definitely! Chopped walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips add wonderful texture and flavor twists. Just fold them into the batter gently before baking.

What’s the best way to get cream cheese frosting smooth and lump-free?

Make sure the cream cheese and butter are softened to room temperature before mixing. Beat them thoroughly before adding powdered sugar gradually—that way, you get a creamy, dreamy frosting without lumps.

Final Thoughts

This Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is truly a delightful treat that brings cozy autumn flavors into your kitchen with ease and warmth. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or yourself, it’s a recipe that never fails to impress and satisfy. I can’t wait for you to try it and fall in love with every moist, spiced bite topped with velvety frosting. Happy baking!

Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.4 from 43 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 10 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Description

This moist and flavorful Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting is a perfect fall treat. Made with warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, this quick bread is tender and rich with pumpkin puree. Topped with a smooth, creamy vanilla-infused cream cheese frosting, it makes an irresistible dessert or snack for any pumpkin lover.

Ingredients

Scale

Bread Ingredients

1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon baking soda
2 teaspoons cinnamon
½ teaspoon nutmeg
½ teaspoon ground ginger
½ teaspoon salt
2 large eggs
1 ½ cups pumpkin puree
½ cup vegetable oil
¼ cup milk (or dairy-free milk)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Cream Cheese Frosting Ingredients

4 ounces cream cheese, softened
¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 ½ cups powdered sugar

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan to prevent sticking.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ground ginger, and salt until fully combined and uniform in texture.
Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the two large eggs, then stir in the pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, milk, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and well incorporated.
Blend Wet and Dry: Gradually fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender.
Bake the Bread: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 55 to 65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the bread comes out clean.
Cool the Bread: Once baked, allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, carefully remove it from the pan and place it on a wire rack to cool completely to room temperature.
Prepare Frosting: While the bread cools, beat the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Add the vanilla extract, then gradually mix in the powdered sugar until the frosting is thick and spreadable.
Frost and Serve: Once the pumpkin bread is completely cooled, spread an even layer of the cream cheese frosting over the top. Slice and enjoy this delicious seasonal treat!

Notes

Make sure the pumpkin puree is well drained if homemade to avoid excess moisture.
Use dairy-free milk to make this recipe vegan-friendly, and substitute butter and cream cheese accordingly.
To test doneness, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
The frosting is best spread on completely cooled bread to prevent melting.
You can store leftover bread wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American