Classic Pumpkin Spice Bread

Classic Pumpkin Spice Bread

Ingredients:

• • 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree (Libby’s recommended)
  • 4 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 cup neutral oil (such as extra virgin olive oil)

• • 1 tablespoon bourbon or vanilla extract
  • 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
  • 1 cup dark brown sugar, packed

• • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon baking powder

• • 1 teaspoon fine salt
  • 2 tablespoons pumpkin spice (homemade or store-bought)
  • 3 tablespoons sugar (divided)

• Oil or baking spray for preparing pans

Instructions:

1. 1. Preheat the Oven:
      • • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
      • Grease two 9×5-inch loaf pans with oil or baking spray. Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of sugar into each prepared pan, coating the bottom evenly.
   2. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
      • • In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, eggs, oil, bourbon (or vanilla), and both sugars until well combined and smooth.

   3. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
      • In a medium bowl, whisk the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and pumpkin spice until thoroughly combined.

1. 1. Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients:
      • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, whisking as you go. Once the ingredients are mostly incorporated, stir the batter for about 50 strokes to ensure it’s well mixed but not overworked.
   2. Pour the Batter into the Pans:
      • • Evenly divide the batter between the two prepared loaf pans. Smooth the tops and sprinkle each loaf with the remaining 1 tablespoon of sugar.

   3. Bake the Bread:
      • • Bake in the preheated oven for 60-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaves comes out clean.
        • Once baked, remove the loaves from the oven and carefully turn them onto a cooling rack.

   4. Cool and Serve:
      • Allow the loaves to cool completely before slicing. For the best flavor, let the bread sit overnight—it actually tastes better the next day!

Serving Suggestions:

• • Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or cream cheese for a decadent treat.
  • Pair with a cup of coffee or spiced tea for a cozy fall breakfast.

• • Add a drizzle of maple syrup or honey for added sweetness.
  • Toast slices lightly and spread with butter for a simple snack.
  • Serve alongside a fall-inspired charcuterie board with cheeses, fruits, and nuts.

Cooking Tips:

• • Make sure the eggs are at room temperature to help them blend more smoothly with the other ingredients.
  • If you want to reduce the sweetness, you can omit the sugar sprinkle on top or reduce the amount of brown sugar.

• • For added texture, fold in nuts like walnuts or pecans, or even chocolate chips into the batter before baking.
  • Check for doneness around the 60-minute mark to avoid overbaking. If the top is browning too quickly, cover loosely with foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.
  • Store the bread in an airtight container to keep it moist and fresh for up to 5 days.

Nutritional Benefits:

• • Rich in beta-carotene from the pumpkin puree, supporting eye health and immune function.
  • High in fiber from the pumpkin and flour, aiding digestion.

• Healthy fats from the olive oil, promoting heart health.
• Low in cholesterol since this recipe uses oil instead of butter.
• Contains antioxidants from the pumpkin and spices, providing anti-inflammatory benefits.