Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread

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Introduction

Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread is a moist and flavorful loaf that brings together the warm spices of fall with the rich sweetness of chocolate chips. This easy-to-make bread is perfect for cozy mornings, afternoon snacks, or even dessert. The pumpkin puree not only infuses the bread with a vibrant orange hue but also keeps it soft and tender, while the chocolate chips add bursts of indulgence in every bite.

I remember the first time I made this bread for a family get-together, and the smell that filled the kitchen was like autumn in a loaf. The combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves gives it that perfect fall flavor, while the pockets of melted chocolate add a delightful sweetness that balances it all out.

What’s great about this recipe is how versatile it is. It’s delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel for a decadent treat. Plus, it’s surprisingly simple to make with just a few pantry staples, making it a go-to recipe when you’re craving something seasonal and comforting. Whether you’re baking it for yourself or gifting it to friends, this Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread will undoubtedly be a hit!

Perfect for:

  • Fall baking
  • Holiday breakfasts
  • Gifting
  • Snack time
  • Pumpkin spice enthusiasts

Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread

Here’s why Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread will become your go-to fall treat:

  • Moist and Tender Texture: The pumpkin puree keeps this bread soft, moist, and perfectly tender.
  • Warm Spices: A blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves enhances the pumpkin flavor, giving it that quintessential autumn taste.
  • Easy to Make: This quick bread recipe requires no yeast or kneading—just mix, pour, and bake!
  • Versatile: Perfect for breakfast, a snack, or dessert.
  • Customizable: Add nuts, dried fruit, or even a streusel topping for extra flair.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 15 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
  • Servings: 10-12 slices
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 250-280 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 4g, Carbs: 38g, Fat: 10g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread:

  • 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup packed brown sugar
  • 1 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
  • 2 large eggs
  • ½ cup vegetable oil or melted butter
  • ¼ cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Ingredient Highlights

  • Pumpkin Puree: Adds moisture, flavor, and a beautiful orange color while making the bread rich and tender.
  • Warm Spices: Cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves bring out the best in pumpkin, giving the bread its signature cozy flavor.
  • Chocolate Chips: Semi-sweet chocolate chips balance the spices with bursts of sweetness.
  • Brown Sugar: Adds depth of flavor and extra moisture to the bread.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Batter:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
  2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Set aside.
  3. Combine the Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, pumpkin puree, eggs, oil, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
  4. Incorporate the Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread light and tender.
  5. Fold in the Chocolate Chips: Gently fold in the chocolate chips, reserving a few to sprinkle on top if desired.

Bake the Bread:

  1. Pour the Batter: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Sprinkle the reserved chocolate chips on top for a decorative finish.
  2. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
  3. Cool: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

How to Serve Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread

Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread is versatile and can be served in many ways:

  • Warm with Butter: Toast a slice and enjoy it with a pat of butter or cream cheese for a comforting breakfast.
  • As a Dessert: Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a sweet treat.
  • With a Hot Drink: Pair with coffee, tea, or hot chocolate for a perfect afternoon snack.
  • For Gifting: Wrap a loaf in parchment paper and tie with a ribbon for a thoughtful homemade gift.
  • On a Dessert Tray: Include slices on a dessert platter with other fall-themed treats.

Additional Tips for Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread

  • Use Fresh Pumpkin Puree: If you have fresh pumpkin puree, use it for an even more flavorful loaf.
  • Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife to avoid dense bread.
  • Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter can lead to a dense texture. Stir just until the ingredients are combined.
  • Check for Doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf to test for doneness. It should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
  • Cool Completely Before Slicing: Let the bread cool fully before slicing to prevent it from crumbling.
  • Customize Add-ins: Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans, or dried cranberries for extra texture and flavor.

Recipe Variations for Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread

Here are 10 variations to try for Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread:

  1. Pumpkin White Chocolate Bread: Replace semi-sweet chocolate chips with white chocolate chips for a sweeter option.
  2. Pumpkin Walnut Chocolate Chip Bread: Add chopped walnuts for a nutty crunch.
  3. Double Chocolate Pumpkin Bread: Stir in 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder and use dark chocolate chips for an extra chocolatey loaf.
  4. Pumpkin Cranberry Bread: Mix in dried cranberries instead of chocolate chips for a tart twist.
  5. Pumpkin Streusel Bread: Top the batter with a streusel made of brown sugar, butter, and flour for a crumbly topping.
  6. Pumpkin Pecan Chocolate Chip Bread: Add chopped pecans for a nutty and rich flavor.
  7. Gluten-Free Pumpkin Bread: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
  8. Vegan Pumpkin Bread: Use flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water per egg) and a plant-based milk for a vegan version.
  9. Spiced Pumpkin Bread: Add a pinch of cardamom or ginger for an extra spice boost.
  10. Pumpkin Banana Chocolate Chip Bread: Replace half the pumpkin puree with mashed banana for a fruity twist.

Freezing and Storage for Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread

  • Freezing: Wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a zip-top bag or airtight container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
  • Storage: Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

Special Equipment for Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread

  • Mixing Bowls: Use separate bowls for wet and dry ingredients.
  • Whisk: For evenly combining the wet and dry ingredients.
  • Spatula: A flexible spatula helps fold the batter gently.
  • Loaf Pan: A 9×5-inch loaf pan is the perfect size for this bread.
  • Parchment Paper: Makes removing the bread from the pan easier.
  • Cooling Rack: Ensures the bread cools evenly without becoming soggy.
  • Oven Thermometer: To ensure your oven is at the correct temperature.

Frequently Asked Questions for Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread

  1. Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
    Yes, just be sure to puree it until smooth and drain excess liquid to avoid a soggy batter.
  2. Can I substitute the chocolate chips?
    Absolutely! Try white chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, or dried fruits like cranberries.
  3. How can I make it healthier?
    Substitute part of the oil with applesauce, reduce the sugar slightly, or use whole wheat flour for a healthier loaf.
  4. Can I make muffins with this batter?
    Yes, divide the batter into a muffin tin and bake at 350°F for 18-22 minutes.
  5. Why did my bread sink in the middle?
    Overmixing or underbaking can cause the bread to sink. Be sure to measure ingredients correctly and test for doneness.

Conclusion

Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread is the ultimate autumn treat, blending the comforting flavors of pumpkin with the indulgence of chocolate chips. The combination of warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg brings out the best in fall baking, while the rich chocolate chips melt into every slice, making each bite pure bliss. Whether you serve it fresh out of the oven, toasted with a bit of butter, or as a sweet breakfast, this bread is perfect for any occasion.

This recipe is easy to prepare and can be adjusted to suit your taste. You can add nuts for a little crunch or even swap the chocolate chips for dried fruit. It’s perfect for sharing, giving, or freezing for a cozy day ahead. This fall-inspired bread will surely become a favorite in your recipe collection!

I’d love to see how your Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread turns out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy baking!