The Ultimate Libby’s Pumpkin Bread Recipe: Moist, Spiced, and Perfectly Easy

Dive into the comforting flavors of autumn with this incredibly moist and flavorful Libby’s Pumpkin Bread Recipe. Crafted with pure pumpkin puree, a symphony of warm spices, and an irresistibly tender crumb, this classic quick bread is truly a seasonal delight. Whether you’re seeking a cozy breakfast, a delightful afternoon snack, or a heartwarming fall treat, this recipe delivers on every front. It’s not just a recipe; it’s an invitation to fill your home with the nostalgic aroma of homemade goodness.

Libby’s Pumpkin Bread stands as a beloved homemade tradition, cherished for its simplicity and deeply satisfying taste. The secret to its remarkable moisture lies in the generous amount of real pumpkin puree, ensuring every slice is wonderfully soft and never dry. Coupled with a thoughtfully selected blend of warm, inviting spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, each bite offers a rich and complex flavor profile that perfectly captures the essence of the fall season. This pumpkin bread isn’t just easy to mix and bake; it transforms your kitchen into a fragrant haven, evoking feelings of warmth and comfort.

Our family adores Canned Pumpkin Desserts, and this classic recipe consistently earns rave reviews. If you find yourself with extra pumpkin puree, don’t let it go to waste! Consider whipping up our No Bake Pumpkin Pie Recipe for another effortless and delicious treat.

Why This Libby’s Pumpkin Bread is a Must-Try

This Libby’s pumpkin bread recipe isn’t just another quick bread; it’s a testament to simple, wholesome ingredients creating something truly extraordinary. Here’s why it’s a perennial favorite:

• Unbelievably Moist and Tender – The generous inclusion of real pumpkin puree is the star here, infusing the bread with moisture that keeps it soft and delicious for days. Unlike many other quick breads, this one resists drying out, ensuring every bite is a tender, flavorful experience.
• Rich, Warm, and Spiced Flavor – A harmonious blend of classic fall spices – cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves – creates a deep, comforting aroma and taste. These spices are perfectly balanced, enhancing the natural sweetness and earthiness of the pumpkin without overpowering it, making it the quintessential autumn treat.
• Effortlessly Easy to Make – With straightforward ingredients and a simple mixing process, this recipe is incredibly beginner-friendly. There’s no fancy equipment or complicated techniques required, making it a perfect baking project for anyone looking for a satisfying result with minimal fuss.
• Remarkably Versatile – This pumpkin bread truly shines in any setting. Enjoy a slice for breakfast with your morning coffee, pack it as a delightful snack for school or work, or serve it as a simple yet elegant dessert after dinner. It pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream, a smear of butter, or simply on its own.
• A Classic Taste of Comfort and Nostalgia – Few things evoke the cozy, nostalgic feelings of fall quite like a freshly baked pumpkin bread. This timeless recipe delivers that classic comfort, reminding you of crisp autumn days, family gatherings, and the simple joys of homemade treats. It’s a taste of tradition in every bite.

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Pumpkin Bread

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to baking a magnificent loaf of Libby’s pumpkin bread. Each component plays a vital role in achieving that signature moist texture and rich, spiced flavor.

• All-Purpose Flour – This foundational ingredient provides the necessary structure for the bread, ensuring it holds its shape while remaining wonderfully tender. Proper measurement is key: spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off without packing.
• Pumpkin Pie Spice – This pre-mixed blend is a convenient way to add the signature warm, aromatic flavors that define pumpkin bread. It typically includes cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves, delivering a perfectly balanced autumn taste.
• Ground Nutmeg – While already present in pumpkin pie spice, an additional touch of ground nutmeg enhances the overall spice profile with its subtle, nutty warmth, adding an extra layer of depth to the flavor.
• Baking Powder – As a leavening agent, baking powder is crucial for helping the bread rise, contributing to its light and fluffy texture. Ensure your baking powder is fresh for optimal results.
• Large Eggs – Eggs act as a binder, holding all the ingredients together, and contribute significantly to the bread’s moist and tender crumb. Using room temperature eggs helps them incorporate more evenly into the batter.
• Granulated Sugar – This sweetens the bread, balancing the natural earthiness of the pumpkin and the intensity of the spices. It also aids in moisture retention and helps achieve a beautiful golden crust.
• Pure Pumpkin Purée – This is the heart of the recipe! Be sure to use 100% pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, which contains added spices and sugar. The puree is essential for both the authentic pumpkin flavor and the bread’s exceptional moisture.
• Vegetable Oil – A neutral oil like vegetable oil adds moisture without imparting additional flavor, resulting in a beautifully soft and rich texture.
• Salt – A small amount of salt is vital to balance the sweetness and enhance all the other flavors in the bread, making them pop.

The entire recipe list with precise measurements is at the bottom of the page in the recipe card. For those who enjoy homemade blends, did you know you can easily make your own pumpkin pie spice? It’s a cost-effective way to always have this essential blend on hand.

Creative Add-ins and Variations

While Libby’s pumpkin bread is perfect as is, it also serves as a fantastic base for customization. Feel free to get creative and tailor it to your preferences with these delicious add-ins and variations:

• Dried Fruit – For a delightful chewiness and a burst of natural sweetness, consider folding in 1/2 to 1 cup of raisins, golden raisins, or dried cranberries (Craisins) into the batter. They plump up beautifully during baking and add an extra layer of texture.
• Nuts for Crunch – Add a lovely crunch and a nutty depth of flavor by incorporating 1/2 to 1 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans. You can mix them directly into the batter for even distribution or sprinkle them generously on top before baking for a delightful toasted finish.
• Indulgent Chocolate Chips – Make this classic even more appealing, especially for kids (and adults!), by stirring in 1/2 to 1 cup of mini or regular chocolate chips. Dark, milk, or white chocolate chips all work wonderfully, adding a melty, rich element.
• Elegant Chocolate Drizzle – Once your pumpkin bread has completely cooled, elevate its presentation and flavor with a simple chocolate drizzle. Melt your favorite chocolate (dark, milk, or white) and drizzle it artfully over the top for a decorative and utterly delicious finish.
• Cream Cheese Swirl – For an extra decadent touch, prepare a simple cream cheese filling (softened cream cheese, a little sugar, and an egg yolk) and swirl it into the pumpkin bread batter before baking. This creates pockets of tangy, creamy deliciousness throughout the loaf.
• Streusel Topping – A buttery, crumbly streusel topping adds fantastic texture and a touch of sweetness. Combine flour, sugar, cold butter, and a pinch of cinnamon, then sprinkle it over the batter before baking.
• Pumpkin Muffins – This versatile batter can easily be transformed into perfect pumpkin muffins! Divide the batter into a greased muffin tin (regular or mini size). Reduce the baking time accordingly (typically 20-25 minutes for regular muffins, 12-15 for mini muffins) for perfectly moist, portion-controlled pumpkin treats.

Step-By-Step Guide to Baking Libby’s Pumpkin Bread

Baking this pumpkin bread is a straightforward and rewarding process. Follow these detailed steps for a perfect loaf every time.

• Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan. Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175°C). This ensures the oven is at the correct temperature when the bread goes in, preventing uneven baking. Next, thoroughly spray a 9×5 inch loaf pan with a non-stick cooking spray, or grease it with butter and dust lightly with flour. This crucial step ensures your beautiful loaf will release easily after baking.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, pumpkin pie spice, ground nutmeg, baking powder, and salt. Whisking ensures these dry ingredients are thoroughly combined and evenly distributed, which is essential for uniform flavor and rise in your bread.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients into Dry. To the dry ingredient mixture, stir in the vegetable oil, large eggs (ensure they are at room temperature for better emulsification), granulated sugar, and pure pumpkin purée. Mix these wet and dry ingredients together until they are just thoroughly combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter, as this can lead to a dense or tough bread. A few lumps are perfectly fine!

Step 4: Pour into Loaf Pan. Carefully spread the well-mixed batter evenly into the prepared 9×5 inch loaf pan. Ensure the top is relatively smooth for even baking. If you’re adding any toppings like nuts or streusel, now is the time to sprinkle them over the batter.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden. Bake the bread in your preheated oven for 55-65 minutes. The baking time can vary slightly depending on your oven, so it’s important to test for doneness. Insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf; it should come out clean or with only a few moist crumbs attached. If it comes out with wet batter, continue baking for a few more minutes and re-test. Once baked, allow the bread to cool in the pan on a wire rack for at least 15-20 minutes before attempting to remove it. This cooling period helps the bread set and prevents it from crumbling. Then, carefully remove from the pan, slice, and savor your delicious homemade Libby’s Pumpkin Bread!

Storage and Freezing Tips

Proper storage is key to keeping your Libby’s pumpkin bread fresh and delicious for as long as possible. Follow these guidelines to enjoy your homemade treat whenever a craving strikes.

Room Temperature Storage – Once the bread has cooled completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can also place it in an airtight container. Stored this way, your pumpkin bread will remain wonderfully fresh and moist for up to 3 days. Keep it away from direct sunlight or heat sources.

Refrigerator Storage – To extend its freshness, store the pumpkin bread in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. The cooler temperature helps preserve its texture and flavor. Before serving, you might want to bring it to room temperature or warm it slightly in the microwave for a few seconds to enhance its aroma and softness.

Freezer Storage for Longer Enjoyment – This pumpkin bread freezes exceptionally well, making it perfect for meal prepping or having a quick treat on hand. First, ensure the bread is completely cool. Wrap the entire loaf tightly in plastic wrap, then wrap it again in aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe bag, pressing out as much air as possible. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature before serving. For best results, allow it to fully thaw before unwrapping to avoid condensation making the crust soggy.

Storing Individual Slices – If you prefer to enjoy your pumpkin bread one slice at a time, consider pre-slicing the cooled loaf. Separate each slice with a small piece of parchment paper before wrapping the entire loaf (or individual slices) as described above. This prevents sticking and makes it incredibly easy to grab a single portion to thaw and enjoy without disturbing the rest of the loaf.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pumpkin Bread

Why did my pumpkin bread turn out dry?

Dry pumpkin bread is a common issue but usually easily avoided. Here are the main culprits:

• Incorrect Measurements: Precision matters in baking. Too much flour (especially if it’s packed into the measuring cup) or too little pumpkin puree or oil can significantly reduce the moisture content, leading to a dry loaf. Always spoon flour into the measuring cup and level it off.
• Overmixing the Batter: When you overmix the batter, you develop the gluten in the flour too much, resulting in a tough, dense, and dry texture. Mix only until the wet and dry ingredients are just combined. A few lumps are perfectly fine!
• Overbaking: Even just a few extra minutes in the oven can transform a moist bread into a dry one. Start checking for doneness at the minimum recommended baking time, and remove the bread as soon as a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with only moist crumbs attached.

What can I use instead of Pumpkin Pie Spice?

No worries if you don’t have pumpkin pie spice on hand! You can easily make your own homemade pumpkin pie spice with a few common spices you likely already have in your pantry. It’s typically a combination of:

• 3 tablespoons ground cinnamon
• 2 teaspoons ground ginger
• 2 teaspoons ground nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1 teaspoon ground cloves

Simply mix these together, and you’ll have a perfect substitute. If you frequently bake with pumpkin, keeping a batch of this homemade seasoning on hand is smart, as it’s often more economical than buying small, pre-made bottles from the store.

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

No, it is very important to use 100% pure pumpkin puree and not pumpkin pie filling. Pumpkin pie filling already contains sugar, spices, and sometimes other ingredients, which will drastically alter the taste and texture of your bread, likely making it too sweet, over-spiced, and possibly too wet.

Why does my pumpkin bread sometimes crack on top?

A cracked top is very common in quick breads and usually nothing to worry about! It typically happens when the outside of the bread bakes and sets faster than the inside. As the inside continues to rise, the already set crust on top cracks to accommodate the expansion. It can also be influenced by the oven temperature (if it’s too high initially) or how much batter is in the pan. Rest assured, a crack adds character and doesn’t affect the taste!

Pro Tips for Baking the Best Libby’s Pumpkin Bread

Achieving a bakery-quality loaf of Libby’s pumpkin bread is easier than you think with these expert tips:

• Ensure Room Temperature Ingredients – This is a game-changer! Make sure your eggs and pumpkin purée are at room temperature. Room temperature ingredients emulsify and mix more evenly with each other, creating a smoother batter and ultimately contributing to a more tender and uniformly textured crumb in your finished bread. Plan ahead and take them out of the fridge at least 30 minutes to an hour before you start baking.
• Do Not Overmix the Batter – Once you’ve combined your wet and dry ingredients, mix just until they are moistened and no streaks of dry flour remain. Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour too much, which can lead to a tough, dense, and less tender bread. A few small lumps are perfectly acceptable and won’t affect the final outcome.
• Accurately Check for Doneness – Rely on the toothpick test. Insert a wooden toothpick or a thin skewer into the very center of the loaf. It should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached. If it comes out wet with raw batter, continue baking in 5-minute intervals until it passes the test. Avoid guessing to prevent underbaking or, worse, overbaking.
• Properly Grease and Flour the Pan – To ensure your beautiful loaf releases effortlessly, grease your loaf pan thoroughly with butter or a nonstick cooking spray. For extra insurance, especially with intricate pans, you can then lightly dust the greased pan with a tablespoon of flour, tapping out any excess. This creates a non-stick barrier.
• Mind the Add-ins Placement – If you’re incorporating dried fruit, nuts, or chocolate chips, gently fold them into the batter as the very last step. This ensures even distribution without overmixing the main batter. You can also lightly toss them with a tablespoon of flour before adding them to prevent them from sinking to the bottom of the pan.
• Cool Completely Before Slicing – Patience is a virtue here! Allow the bread to cool in the pan for at least 10-15 minutes after it comes out of the oven. This allows it to set and firm up, making it easier to remove without crumbling. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to finish cooling completely before slicing. Slicing warm bread can lead to a gummy texture and uneven slices.
• Make Ahead for Enhanced Flavor – Pumpkin bread, like many quick breads, often tastes even better the day after it’s baked. The flavors have more time to meld and deepen, and the moisture content stabilizes. You can certainly bake it a day in advance and store it at room temperature or refrigerated, ready to enjoy.
• Don’t Substitute Pumpkin Pie Filling – As mentioned in the FAQs, always use 100% pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling. The latter contains added sugar and spices that will throw off the recipe’s balance.

Explore More Easy Quick Bread Recipes

If you’ve enjoyed the simplicity and deliciousness of this Libby’s Pumpkin Bread, you’ll love these other quick bread recipes that are just as easy to make and perfect for any occasion:

• Classic Pumpkin Bread Recipe
• Hearty Oatmeal Bread
• Convenient Air Fryer Banana Bread
• Sweet Strawberry Banana Bread
• Decadent Chocolate Banana Bread

We encourage you to make this wonderful homemade pumpkin bread today. It’s a truly rewarding baking experience that brings the flavors of fall right into your home. After you try it, please come back and leave a comment – we’d love to hear your thoughts!

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Libby’s Pumpkin Bread

4.72 from 7 votes

Libby’s Pumpkin Bread Recipe has all the delicious flavors of fall that you love. This quick bread is moist and delicious with lots of pumpkin, nutmeg and more.

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr

Total Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins

Servings 12

Cuisine American

Course Dessert

Calories 262

Author Carrie Barnard

Ingredients

• ▢ 1 3/4 cups All Purpose Flour
• ▢ 1 1/2 teaspoons Pumpkin Pie Spice
• ▢ 1/2 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg
• ▢ 1 teaspoon Baking Powder
• ▢ 1/2 teaspoon Salt
• ▢ 1/2 cup Vegetable Oil
• ▢ 2 Large Eggs
• ▢ 1 1/2 cups Granulated Sugar
• ▢ 1 cup Pure Pumpkin Purée

Instructions

• Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and spray a 9X5 loaf pan with a non stick cooking spray.
• In a large mixing bowl whisk together the flour, pumpkin pie spice, nutmeg, baking powder and salt.
• Stir in the vegetable oil, eggs, sugar and pumpkin purée. Mix until thoroughly combined.
• Pour the batter into the greased loaf pan.
• Bake for 55-65 minutes until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
• Let the bread cool completely on a wire rack.
• Carefully remove the bread from the loaf pan. Slice, serve and enjoy!

Recipe Notes

Store the leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days.

Nutrition Facts

Calories 262kcal, Carbohydrates 41g, Protein 3g, Fat 10g, Saturated Fat 2g, Polyunsaturated Fat 5g, Monounsaturated Fat 2g, Trans Fat 0.1g, Cholesterol 27mg, Sodium 144mg, Potassium 74mg, Fiber 1g, Sugar 26g, Vitamin A 3218IU, Vitamin C 1mg, Calcium 34mg, Iron 1mg

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