Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting: 7 Reasons to Indulge

Oktober 6, 2025

By:

Julia marin

There’s something undeniably cozy about baking pumpkin bread with cream cheese frosting, especially as the leaves start to turn and that crisp autumn air rolls in. I can just picture it: the warm scent of cinnamon and nutmeg filling the kitchen, wrapping you in a hug as you mix the batter. This recipe is my go-to for fall gatherings and lazy Sunday afternoons alike. The moist, spiced pumpkin bread is perfectly complemented by the rich, creamy frosting that takes it to a whole new level of deliciousness. Trust me, every bite is like a slice of heaven! Whether you’re sharing it with friends or enjoying it all by yourself with a steaming cup of coffee, this pumpkin bread is sure to bring a smile to your face and warmth to your heart.

pumpkin bread with cream cheese frosting - detail 1

Ingredients List

Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up this delicious pumpkin bread with cream cheese frosting. Make sure to gather all your ingredients beforehand—nothing feels better than being fully prepared when you start baking!

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 cup canned pumpkin (make sure it’s pure pumpkin, not pie filling!)
1/2 cup vegetable oil
4 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
8 oz cream cheese (softened to room temperature)
1/4 cup butter (softened)
2 cups powdered sugar
1 tablespoon milk (to achieve that perfect frosting consistency)

Gathering these ingredients is half the fun! You’ll love how they come together to create something truly special. Happy baking!

How to Prepare Instructions

Making pumpkin bread with cream cheese frosting is a delightful process, and I can’t wait to share how easy it is! Let’s dive right in!

Preheat and Mix Dry Ingredients

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial because you want your bread to bake evenly. While the oven is heating up, grab a large bowl and whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, ½ teaspoon of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, ½ teaspoon of nutmeg, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Mixing these dry ingredients first helps ensure a well-distributed rise in your bread. You’ll love the warm, spicy aroma already filling your kitchen!

Combine Wet Ingredients

Now, let’s move on to the wet ingredients! In another bowl, beat together 1 cup of granulated sugar, ½ cup of brown sugar, 1 cup of canned pumpkin, ½ cup of vegetable oil, 4 large eggs, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. I like to use an electric mixer for this part to really get everything smooth and creamy. You’ll know it’s ready when it looks like a beautiful golden mixture! Trust me, the smell will be irresistible.

Mix and Bake

Once your wet ingredients are mixed, it’s time to combine them with the dry ingredients. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, and gently stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want to keep that lovely, tender texture! Now, pour the batter into a greased loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake it in your preheated oven for about 60 to 70 minutes. To check if it’s done, insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean, it’s perfect!

Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting

While the bread cools (give it at least 10-15 minutes in the pan), let’s whip up the cream cheese frosting! In a mixing bowl, beat together 8 oz of softened cream cheese and ¼ cup of softened butter until smooth and fluffy. Then, gradually add in 2 cups of powdered sugar and 1 tablespoon of milk. Mix until it’s creamy and luscious—this frosting is going to be the cherry on top of your delicious bread!

Frost the Bread

Once your pumpkin bread has cooled completely, it’s time for the fun part—frosting! Spread the cream cheese frosting generously over the top of the loaf. I like to use a spatula for an even layer, but feel free to get creative! You can even sprinkle a little cinnamon on top for that extra fall flair. Now, step back and admire your creation—it’s a sight to behold!

Nutritional Information

When it comes to enjoying a slice of this delightful pumpkin bread with cream cheese frosting, you might be curious about what’s in it! Here are the typical nutritional values per slice, but keep in mind these are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients used:

Calories: 250
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 50mg
Sodium: 200mg
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 20g
Protein: 3g

So, as you savor each bite, you can feel a little less guilty about indulging in this sweet treat. Enjoy it as a part of your cozy fall days, and remember, everything in moderation is key!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Absolutely delicious flavor that perfectly captures the essence of fall.
Moist, tender pumpkin bread that pairs beautifully with the creamy frosting.
Easy to prepare, even for beginner bakers—trust me, you can do this!
Comfort food at its finest, perfect for cozy gatherings or a quiet night in.
Versatile enough to enjoy for breakfast, dessert, or anytime you need a sweet pick-me-up.
Customizable with optional add-ins like nuts or chocolate chips for extra texture.
Frosting takes this recipe to another level, making it extra special and indulgent.
Great for sharing—everyone will be asking for your secret recipe!
Leftovers (if there are any!) can be easily stored and enjoyed later.

Tips for Success

Getting your pumpkin bread with cream cheese frosting just right is all about the little details! Here are some of my favorite tips to ensure your baking experience is a success:

Use room temperature ingredients: When mixing your wet ingredients, it helps to have your eggs and cream cheese at room temperature. This makes for a smoother batter and creamier frosting!
Don’t skip the spices: The cinnamon and nutmeg are what give the bread its warm, cozy flavor. Feel free to experiment with other spices like ginger or allspice for a little twist!
Check your baking soda: Make sure your baking soda is fresh! An expired leavening agent can lead to a denser bread. If it fizzes when mixed with vinegar, you’re good to go!
Test for doneness: Remember to do the toothpick test! Insert it into the center of the bread—if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, it’s done. No one likes a soggy loaf!
Customize your frosting: If you want a little extra flavor in your cream cheese frosting, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon. It elevates the frosting to a whole new level!
Store properly: If you have leftovers, wrap your pumpkin bread tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to keep it moist. It can also be frozen for up to three months—just thaw it in the fridge overnight!
Get creative with toppings: After frosting, try adding chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or even a drizzle of caramel for an extra special treat. The possibilities are endless!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to creating the most delectable pumpkin bread with cream cheese frosting that everyone will love. Happy baking, and don’t forget to enjoy the process!

Variations

One of the best things about pumpkin bread with cream cheese frosting is how versatile it can be! Here are some fun and delicious variations to take this classic recipe to new heights. Trust me, experimenting with these ideas will make your kitchen smell even more amazing!

Nuts: Add some chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch. They not only enhance the texture but also bring a nutty flavor that complements the pumpkin beautifully.
Chocolate chips: Who doesn’t love a little chocolate? Toss in a cup of semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips into the batter for a rich, sweet surprise in every bite!
Spices: Feel free to mix things up with spices! A teaspoon of ginger or allspice can add a lovely warmth, or even a hint of cloves for that extra fall flavor.
Maple syrup: Swap out some of the sugar for maple syrup in the batter. It adds a unique flavor that pairs perfectly with pumpkin and gives a delightful richness.
Cranberries: For a tart twist, fold in some dried cranberries. They add a pop of color and a sweet-tart flavor that contrasts beautifully with the sweet frosting.
Coconut: Stir in some shredded coconut for a tropical flair. It not only adds sweetness but also a chewy texture that’s simply irresistible!
Different frostings: If you’re feeling adventurous, try swapping the cream cheese frosting for a maple glaze or a simple vanilla buttercream. Each option brings its own charm!

These variations are just a starting point—feel free to get creative and make this recipe your own. Every time you bake, you can create a new taste experience, and that’s what makes baking so much fun! Enjoy your culinary adventures!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

To keep your delicious pumpkin bread with cream cheese frosting fresh and tasty, proper storage is key! If you happen to have leftovers (which, let’s be honest, is a big if!), here’s how to store them:

Refrigerate: Wrap the cooled pumpkin bread tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. This will help maintain its moisture and prevent it from drying out. It should stay good in the fridge for about 5 days.
Freeze: If you want to keep it longer, freezing is a great option! Slice the bread and wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can last for up to 3 months in the freezer. Just remember to label it with the date!

Now, when you’re ready to enjoy a slice (or two!), here’s the best way to reheat it:

Thawing: If frozen, let the slices thaw in the refrigerator overnight. This helps to keep them nice and moist.
Microwave: For a quick warm-up, pop a slice in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. Keep an eye on it to avoid overheating, as you want it warm but not hot!
Oven: For a more toasted texture, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the slices on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. This method also gives the frosting a lovely, melty touch!

With these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your pumpkin bread with cream cheese frosting days after you’ve baked it. It’s like having a little piece of fall magic ready whenever you need it!

FAQ Section

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Absolutely! Using fresh pumpkin can give your pumpkin bread a unique flavor. Just make sure to cook and puree it before adding it to the batter. It might require a little more work, but the taste is worth it!

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
No problem! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure the blend you use is suitable for baking. It’ll still turn out delicious!

Can I make pumpkin bread without eggs?
Yes, you can! To replace each egg, use a flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons of water) or unsweetened applesauce (1/4 cup per egg). This will help keep your pumpkin bread moist and flavorful.

How do I know when my pumpkin bread is done baking?
The best way to check is to insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, it’s done! If it’s still wet, give it a few more minutes in the oven.

Can I freeze the cream cheese frosting?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to store it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to use it, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight and whip it again to restore its creamy texture before spreading it on your pumpkin bread.

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Über mich

Hallo, ich bin Julia, das Herz hinter Vihaad Rezepte und eine leidenschaftliche Feinschmeckerin. Meine Liebe zum Kochen begann in meiner Kindheit, inspiriert von den herzhaften Mahlzeiten meiner Großmutter. Heute teile ich schmackhafte Rezepte, die Menschen durch gutes Essen zusammenbringen.