Pumpkin Streusel Bread Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy treat that captures all the warm, inviting flavors of fall, you are going to absolutely love this Pumpkin Streusel Bread. It’s a moist, tender loaf bursting with pumpkin goodness and spiced perfectly with cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg. Then comes the irresistible streusel topping, delivering a delightful crunch and buttery sweetness that makes every bite simply unforgettable. Whether you’re making it for a lazy weekend breakfast or a comforting afternoon snack, this Pumpkin Streusel Bread feels like a warm hug from the inside out.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for Pumpkin Streusel Bread are wonderfully straightforward but each one plays an essential role in building that perfect balance of taste, texture, and aroma. From the creamy pumpkin puree giving it moisture and color to the spices that make it sing with warmth, every element is a star.

• Unsalted butter, softened: Creaming this with brown sugar creates the base for a tender, rich bread.
• Dark brown sugar: Adds deep molasses notes and moisture, but light brown sugar works just fine too.
• Pumpkin puree: The heart of the bread, providing natural sweetness and beautiful orange hue (avoid pumpkin pie filling).
• Large eggs: These help bind everything together and add richness.
• Ground cinnamon: Brings a warm, aromatic spice essential to that classic pumpkin flavor.
• Ground ginger: Adds a lively zing that complements the cinnamon perfectly.
• Ground nutmeg: Provides a subtle earthiness and depth.
• Ground cloves: Offers a hint of bold spice—just a pinch goes a long way!
• Baking soda and baking powder: Work together to give this bread its perfect rise and light crumb.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors overall.
• All-purpose flour: The structure of the bread, ensuring it holds its shape and texture.
• For the streusel topping – melted unsalted butter: Combines with sugar and spices to create that crumbly, crunchy top.
• Flour (extra): Helps give the streusel its sandy texture.
• Brown sugar (extra): Sweetens and caramelizes beautifully as it bakes.
• Pumpkin pie spice or extra cinnamon: Enhances the autumnal flavor of the topping.
• Confectioners’ sugar: For the final glaze, adding a delicate, sweet finish that’s irresistible.
• Maple extract and maple syrup: Infuse a lovely depth of flavor in the glaze to complement the pumpkin and spices.
• Milk or cream: Smooths out the glaze to the perfect consistency for drizzling.

How to Make Pumpkin Streusel Bread

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350℉ and generously greasing an 8- or 9-inch light metal loaf pan. You can also line it with parchment paper and grease that for an easy release. This sets the stage for your bread to bake evenly without sticking, so it’s worth the extra prep.

Step 2: Mix the Bread Batter

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with the brown sugar using a handheld electric mixer until the mixture is smooth and creamy—it should take about a minute. Then, add your pumpkin puree, followed by the eggs, beating well after each addition. Next, add in the aromatic spices, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and the flour. Mix everything on low speed just until everything is barely combined. Avoid over-mixing, as this can make your Pumpkin Streusel Bread tough instead of tender.

Step 3: Add the Streusel Topping

Spread your batter evenly into the prepared loaf pan. Now, let’s make that luscious streusel! Combine melted butter, flour, brown sugar, and pumpkin pie spice in a medium bowl, stirring until the mixture looks like wet sand. This crumbly topping is what makes this bread such an extraordinary treat. Drop generous handfuls of the streusel evenly over the top of your batter — don’t skimp here!

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Pop your pan into the oven and bake for 55 to 60 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with moist crumbs, but not wet batter. After baking, cool your Pumpkin Streusel Bread completely on a wire rack — it’s tough to wait, but this step helps the bread set beautifully and makes it easier to slice.

Step 5: Glaze and Serve

While the bread cools, whisk together confectioners’ sugar, maple extract, maple syrup, and milk in a bowl until you have a smooth, soft glaze. Drizzle this lovingly over the top of your loaf. This glaze adds a lovely sheen and that perfect touch of sweetness that elevates the whole experience.

How to Serve Pumpkin Streusel Bread

Garnishes

For an inviting presentation, sprinkle a few extra streusel crumbs or a dusting of cinnamon on top of the glaze. Freshly chopped pecans or walnuts also make wonderful garnishes, adding extra crunch and visual appeal. A light spread of softened butter or cream cheese transforms each slice into a slice of comfort heaven.

Side Dishes

Pair your Pumpkin Streusel Bread with warm, comforting drinks like chai tea, coffee with a hint of cinnamon, or a rich hot chocolate. A bowl of spiced applesauce or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side turns it into a dessert-worthy treat. This bread also shines alongside a dollop of whipped cream or a smear of nut butter for those who want an extra boost of flavor and texture.

Creative Ways to Present

Thinking beyond the loaf? Try slicing and toasting thick pieces for breakfast topped with melted butter or nut butter, drizzling with honey. You can also cube the bread and use it in a fall-inspired bread pudding. For parties, cut into bite-sized squares and serve with a side of pumpkin-spiced cream cheese dip for a delightful finger food that keeps everyone coming back for more.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, wrap any leftover Pumpkin Streusel Bread tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. It keeps beautifully at room temperature for about 2 to 3 days. For longer freshness, refrigerate for up to a week, but bring slices back to room temperature or gently warm them to revive that fresh-baked mojo.

Freezing

If you want to prepare ahead or save some for later, Pumpkin Streusel Bread freezes wonderfully. Wrap the whole loaf or individual slices securely in plastic wrap and then in foil or a freezer-safe bag. Frozen bread stays delicious for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before warming.

Reheating

For the best flavor and texture, reheat slices in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 300℉ for about 10 minutes until warmed through and slightly crisp on the edges. Avoid microwaving too long to prevent sogginess. A quick spread of butter or cream cheese after warming takes it to the next level.

FAQs

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

It’s best to use pure pumpkin puree rather than pumpkin pie filling because the filling contains added sugars and spices that can throw off the flavor and texture of your Pumpkin Streusel Bread.

How do I know when the bread is done baking?

Insert a toothpick or skewer into the center of the bread—if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the bread is ready. If wet batter clings to it, give the bread a few more minutes in the oven.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend that measures cup-for-cup. Just be sure the blend contains xanthan gum or a similar binder to keep the bread tender and moist.

What’s the best way to store Pumpkin Streusel Bread if I don’t want it to dry out?

Keeping the bread tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container helps retain moisture. Refrigeration or freezing can extend its life, just be sure to thaw or warm it gently to restore softness.

Can I double this recipe for two loaves?

Absolutely! Just double all the ingredients and bake in two separate loaf pans. Make sure not to fill the pans more than two-thirds full to allow for proper rising and baking.

Final Thoughts

This Pumpkin Streusel Bread is truly a slice of autumn magic that never fails to bring a smile and a comforting warmth to any gathering or casual moment. It’s easy to make yet feels utterly special every time. I can’t recommend it enough—grab your ingredients and get baking because your kitchen deserves this cozy, spiced delight!

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