What are common pumpkin bread mistakes?

The most common mistakes include using pumpkin pie filling instead of pure pumpkin puree, overmixing the batter which can lead to a tough texture, and baking at too high a temperature, which results in a raw center and a burnt exterior.

How to make a loaf of bread brown?

A rich brown color on the crust of your loaf comes from a process called the Maillard reaction. Using brown sugar in the batter helps, and ensuring your oven is at the correct temperature will promote even browning. If you want a darker crust, you can use a metal loaf pan.

What flavors pair well with pumpkin?

Pumpkin pairs wonderfully with a variety of warm spices, including cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. Other great pairings include brown sugar, maple syrup, cream cheese, and nuts like pecans or walnuts. The slightly bitter notes of dark chocolate also create a delicious contrast.

How to tell if pumpkin bread has gone bad?

Pumpkin bread that has gone bad will often show visible signs of mold, typically green or white fuzzy spots. It may also have a sour or unpleasant odor. If the bread feels slimy or overly sticky to the touch, it's best to discard it. Always trust your senses!

The Best Pumpkin Bread with Brown Sugar Glaze Recipe [2025]

Ingredients

Scale

For the bread:

1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking soda

½ teaspoon baking powder

1 teaspoon salt

2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice

1 cup light brown sugar, packed

1 (15 oz) can pure pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling)

2 large eggs, room temperature

½ cup vegetable oil

⅓ cup water

For the glaze:

1 Tablespoon butter

¼ cup brown sugar

3 Tablespoons milk

¼ cup chopped pecans (optional)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (350°F if using a metal loaf pan). Spray a loaf pan with nonstick spray.

2. In medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and pumpkin pie spice.

3. In large bowl, mix brown sugar, pumpkin, eggs, oil, and water until smooth.

4. Add dry ingredients to wet mixture. Stir until just combined; do not overmix.

5. Pour batter into loaf pan. Bake 60–75 minutes, checking with toothpick at 50 minutes. Bread is done when toothpick comes out clean.

6. Make glaze: In saucepan, whisk butter, brown sugar, and milk. Boil for 2 minutes, whisking constantly.

7. While bread is warm, poke holes in top with fork. Pour glaze slowly over loaf.

8. If using, press chopped pecans on top. Cool 15–20 minutes before slicing.

Notes

Use pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling, for best results.

Room temperature eggs make mixing smoother.

Store leftovers wrapped tightly or in airtight container at room temperature up to 3 days.

Author: Aaron
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian