As autumn's crisp air rolls in, the sweetest thoughts drift toward the warm, soothing aroma of Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread. The moment I slid this golden loaf into the oven, the delightful scent of cinnamon and nutmeg enveloped my kitchen, instantly making it feel like home. This recipe is more than just a treat; it embodies the cozy spirit of the season, offering a comforting blend of spiced pumpkin and molten chocolate chips that brings a smile to every face.
I discovered this delicious creation while searching for a way to use up leftover pumpkin puree—and boy, was it a happy accident! The combination of moist pumpkin and rich chocolate not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also fills your kitchen with memories waiting to be made. Whether you're enjoying it as an afternoon snack or serving it at a cozy gathering, this Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread is guaranteed to steal the show without requiring hours of effort. So, preheat your oven and get ready to indulge in a slice of fall magic!
Why You'll Love This Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread
- This Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread is incredibly easy to make, requiring just 15 minutes of prep time, making it perfect for busy days.
- The harmonious blend of warm spices and rich chocolate creates a flavor sensation that will leave everyone wanting more.
- This versatile recipe can be enjoyed on its own or paired with your favorite spreads, perfect for breakfast or dessert.
- Its inviting aroma and golden color make it not just delicious but visually appealing, adding charm to any gathering.<br />
Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread Ingredients
• Get ready to create a cozy delight!
For the Bread
• Pumpkin puree – adds moisture and a lovely autumn flavor to your Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread.
• All-purpose flour – provides the perfect structure and balance for a tender crumb.
• Granulated sugar – enhances the sweetness, creating a lovely contrast with the chocolate.
• Brown sugar – contributes a rich, caramel-like depth of flavor that's simply irresistible.
• Vegetable oil – keeps the bread moist and tender; can be replaced with melted coconut oil for a unique twist.
• Large eggs – bind the ingredients together and add richness to your baked bread.
• Vanilla extract – adds depth and enhances the sweetness of the other flavors.
• Baking soda – helps the bread rise, ensuring it’s fluffy and light.
• Baking powder – works in tandem with baking soda for a perfect lift.
• Salt – elevates flavor and balances the sweetness for a delightful taste.
• Pumpkin pie spice – infuses the bread with that warm autumn aroma and flavor.
• Chocolate chips – folded in for creamy pockets of sweetness; dark chocolate works great for a richer taste!
Optional Topping
• Reserved chocolate chips – sprinkle on top before baking for an extra touch of chocolate goodness!
Whether you’re among friends or savoring a quiet moment to yourself, this Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread will surely win hearts!
How to Make Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9×5-inch loaf pan by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper. This ensures easy removal and helps achieve that lovely golden crust.
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Whisk together the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract in a large bowl until the mixture is smooth and well combined. The beauty of this step is seeing each ingredient come together harmoniously!
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Mix the dry ingredients in a separate bowl by combining the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and pumpkin pie spice. This step adds the essential leavening elements and the warm spices that make your bread sing!
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Combine the wet and dry ingredients gradually, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want it to stay tender and soft, with little lumps here and there.
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Fold in the chocolate chips gently, reserving a few to sprinkle on top if you'd like. Every slice should have gooey bits of melted chocolate, bringing joy with each bite!
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Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. This ensures even baking and a lovely rise throughout the loaf.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 55–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean. You'll know it’s time when the aroma fills your kitchen, creating an inviting atmosphere!
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Cool the loaf in the pan for about 10–15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is essential for achieving perfect slices!
Optional: Sprinkle some extra chocolate chips on top before baking for that extra touch of sweetness!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread loaves are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the wet and dry ingredients separately and then storing them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. To ensure quality, avoid adding the chocolate chips until you're ready to bake. When it's time to bake, simply combine everything, fold in the chocolate chips, and pour the mixture into your prepared loaf pan. Bake as directed for a fresh, delicious loaf that’s just as satisfying as if you'd made it that day! Enjoy the aroma and flavor of homemade goodness without the stress.
How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread
Room Temperature: Store your Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread in an airtight container or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap. It can last for up to 3 days at room temperature.
Fridge: For longer freshness, keep it in the refrigerator, where it will stay good for up to 1 week. Make sure it’s well-wrapped to avoid drying out.
Freezer: To freeze, slice the bread and wrap each slice in plastic wrap, then place them in a resealable freezer bag. The bread can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: For a warm treat, pop a slice in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or toast it until heated through, restoring that delightful, gooey chocolate!
What to Serve with Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread?
As the tempting scent of warm spices and chocolate wafts from the oven, you’ll want to create a meal that complements this cozy loaf beautifully.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These buttery potatoes offer a rich, velvety contrast, making for an indulgent side that balances the sweet bread.
- Maple Pecan Salad: A fresh salad with maple dressing delivers crunch and subtle sweetness, enhancing the fall flavors of the bread.
- Sautéed Spinach: This light and vibrant green dish provides a nutritious foil, ensuring every bite feels wholesome and balanced.
- Pumpkin Soup: What could be more perfect than pairing your bread with a creamy pumpkin soup? It creates a cozy flavor harmony that screams autumn!
- Spiced Hot Apple Cider: Warm your heart with a steaming mug of spiced apple cider. The fruity, perfumed drink beautifully brings out the bread’s pumpkin notes.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream drizzled with caramel sauce makes for a fabulous dessert showdown, balancing sweetness and creaminess against the bread's texture.
- Cheese Platter: Offering a mix of soft and hard cheeses brings a savory element to your gathering, contrasting perfectly with the sweet chocolate chips.
- Hot Chocolate: There’s nothing like a mug of rich hot chocolate to accompany your slice. The chocolate flavors will unite in a delightful bliss!
- Fresh Berries: A handful of tart berries adds vibrant color and freshness, lightening the meal while complementing the richness of the pumpkin bread.
Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists and substitutions to make this recipe truly yours!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend for a safe and delicious option.
- Nutty Crunch: Add ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture and a nutty flavor that complements the chocolate beautifully.
- Spiced Up: For a kick of heat, mix in a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or chipotle powder—it adds a surprising depth to the usual sweetness.
- Milk Chocolate Bliss: Swap semi-sweet chocolate chips for milk chocolate for a sweeter, creamier experience that appeals to the chocolate lovers among us.
- Vegan: Replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) and use a plant-based oil for a scrumptious vegan alternative.
- Coconut Twist: Incorporate shredded coconut (½ cup) into the batter for a tropical vibe that pairs beautifully with pumpkin.
- Dried Fruit: Toss in ½ cup of dried cranberries or raisins for a chewy, fruity burst that adds a lovely contrast to the chocolate.
- Lemon Zest: Add the zest of one lemon to the batter for a refreshing citrusy note that brightens the rich flavors of the bread!
With these variations, you can craft a Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread that reflects your preferences and inspires your kitchen creativity!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread, be careful not to overmix the batter; this preserves the loaf's tender texture.
- For an added depth of flavor, consider using a combination of dark and milk chocolate chips.
- Always check your oven's accuracy with an oven thermometer, as baking times can vary slightly depending on individual appliances.
- If you want to ensure the bread remains moist, avoid opening the oven door too frequently while it bakes, as this can disrupt the rising process.
Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread Recipe FAQs
What type of pumpkin puree should I use?
Absolutely! You should use canned pumpkin puree for convenience and consistent results. If you're feeling adventurous, homemade pumpkin puree made from roasted pie pumpkins also works beautifully!
How can I tell if my bread is done baking?
Very! You’ll know your Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread is ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean or with crumbs (no wet batter). Depending on your oven, this can take between 55 to 65 minutes.
How should I store my Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread?
For room temperature storage, place your bread in an airtight container or wrap it in plastic wrap; it will stay fresh for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep it in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Can I freeze Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread?
Absolutely! To freeze, slice the bread and wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a resealable freezer bag. Your delicious slices can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or pop it in the toaster.
What if I have allergies or dietary restrictions?
Check your ingredient labels closely! If you have dairy allergies, consider using a dairy-free chocolate chip variant. For egg allergies, you can replace each egg with a flaxseed meal mixture (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water). Let it sit for a few minutes to thicken before adding it to your mix.
How do I make sure my bread stays moist?
To maintain a moist Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread, be sure not to overbake it! Additionally, storing it properly—either in an airtight container or wrapping it tightly—will also help retain moisture. Enjoy your lovely loaf!
Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9×5-inch loaf pan by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper.
- Whisk together the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract in a large bowl until the mixture is smooth.
- Mix the dry ingredients in a separate bowl by combining the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and pumpkin pie spice.
- Combine the wet and dry ingredients gradually, stirring until just combined.
- Fold in the chocolate chips gently, reserving a few to sprinkle on top if you'd like.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 55–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean.
- Cool the loaf in the pan for 10–15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
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