Pumpkin Nut Bread Recipe

This pumpkin nut bread is soft, moist, and full of warm fall flavor in every slice. The mix of pumpkin, cinnamon, and crunchy nuts gives it that perfect balance of cozy and texture. I baked it one cool morning, and the aroma filled the kitchen like a warm hug.

I love how easy it is to make—just one bowl and simple ingredients. The nuts add a satisfying crunch that pairs so well with the soft, spiced bread. It’s perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even a little gift for neighbors.

If you’re looking for a classic, no-fuss fall recipe, this Pumpkin Nut Bread is it. Let’s bake it together—you’ll love how flavorful, tender, and comforting it turns out every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfectly Moist: The pumpkin puree keeps this bread tender and moist for days.
• Easy to Make: Simple mixing method with pantry-friendly ingredients.
• Wonderfully Spiced: Pumpkin pie spice creates warm, cozy flavors in every bite.
• Nutty Crunch: Chopped nuts add delightful texture throughout.
• Great for Gifting: Bake extra loaves to share with friends and neighbors.

What You Need to Know Before You Start

Prep Time & Cook Time:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Total Time: About 1 hour 15 minutes

Servings: This recipe makes one standard loaf that serves about 10-12 slices. You can easily double the recipe to make two loaves.

Difficulty: Easy for bakers of all skill levels. Perfect for beginners looking to practice their quick bread skills.

Required Kitchen Tools

• Large mixing bowl
• Medium mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• 9×5-inch loaf pan
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Toothpick or cake tester
• Wire cooling rack

Ingredients for Pumpkin Nut Bread

This classic quick bread comes together with simple ingredients you likely have on hand. The pumpkin keeps the bread moist, while the spices and nuts add warmth and texture. Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious loaf:

• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the bread and helps create a tender crumb.
• Brown Sugar: Adds moisture and a hint of molasses flavor.
• Vegetable Oil: Keeps the bread moist without making it heavy.
• Pumpkin Puree: Provides moisture, flavor, and a beautiful golden color. Use canned or homemade.
• Eggs: Bind the ingredients and add structure.
• Pumpkin Pie Spice: A blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves brings warm fall flavors.
• Salt: Enhances all the other flavors.
• Baking Soda: Helps the bread rise and creates a tender texture.
• Buttermilk: Adds tanginess and reacts with baking soda for a light crumb.
• All-Purpose Flour: Forms the structure of the bread.
• Chopped Nuts: Walnuts or pecans add crunch and nutty flavor throughout.

Variations for Pumpkin Nut Bread

• Add Chocolate Chips: Fold in chocolate chips along with the nuts for extra sweetness.
• Try Different Nuts: Use pecans, walnuts, or a mix of both for varied flavor.
• Make It Healthier: Swap half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour.
• Add Seeds: Sprinkle pepitas (pumpkin seeds) on top before baking for extra crunch.
• Create Mini Loaves: Divide the batter among smaller pans for gift-sized portions. Reduce baking time to 35-40 minutes.

How to Make Pumpkin Nut Bread Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare Your Pan

Grease your 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or cooking spray. You can also line it with parchment paper for easy removal. Preheat your oven to 350°F.

2. Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil until well combined. Add the pumpkin puree and eggs, whisking until the mixture is smooth and uniform.

3. Add the Spices

Stir in the pumpkin pie spice, salt, and baking soda. Mix well to distribute the spices evenly throughout the wet ingredients.

4. Incorporate the Buttermilk

Pour in the buttermilk and stir gently until combined. The buttermilk adds tanginess and helps create a tender crumb.

5. Fold in the Flour

Add the all-purpose flour to the bowl. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to fold the flour into the wet ingredients. Mix just until no dry flour remains. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the bread tough.

6. Add the Nuts

Gently fold in the chopped nuts, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.

7. Bake the Bread

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 55-65 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.

8. Cool and Serve

Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Serving and Decoration

How to Serve Pumpkin Nut Bread

This versatile bread works for many occasions:

• For Breakfast: Serve warm slices with butter and a cup of coffee or tea.
• As a Snack: Enjoy a slice plain for an afternoon pick-me-up.
• With Cream Cheese: Spread softened cream cheese on top for extra richness.
• Toasted: Pop slices in the toaster and top with butter for a crispy treat.
• For Dessert: Serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.

Storing Pumpkin Nut Bread

• Room Temperature: Wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store at room temperature for up to 4 days.
• Refrigerator: For longer storage, keep wrapped bread in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
• Freezer: Wrap individual slices or the whole loaf tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or toast frozen slices.

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This helps everything mix together smoothly.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter just until the flour disappears to keep the bread tender.
• Check for Doneness: Insert a toothpick in the center. It should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
• Toast the Nuts: Toasting nuts before adding them brings out their flavor and adds extra crunch.
• Let It Cool: Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing for clean, neat slices.
• Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off for accurate measurements.

Nutrition

Nutrient	Per Slice (1/12 of loaf)
Calories	280
Total Fat	14g
Saturated Fat	2g
Cholesterol	35mg
Sodium	180mg
Total Carbohydrates	36g
Dietary Fiber	2g
Sugars	20g
Protein	4g

Note: Nutrition information is approximate and will vary based on specific ingredients used.

Pumpkin Nut Bread FAQs

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned? Yes, you can use homemade pumpkin puree. Make sure it is well-drained and thick, as fresh pumpkin can be watery.

Why is my bread dense? Overmixing the batter can make the bread dense. Mix just until the flour is incorporated.

Can I make this without buttermilk? You can make a substitute by adding 1 teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar to 1/3 cup of regular milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.

How do I know when the bread is done? Insert a toothpick into the center. It should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached.

Can I make muffins instead? Yes, divide the batter among lined muffin tins and bake at 350°F for 18-22 minutes.

Conclusion

This Pumpkin Nut Bread brings together the best flavors of fall in one simple, delicious loaf. The combination of moist pumpkin, warm spices, and crunchy nuts creates a bread that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you bake it for your family or give it as a gift, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home.