Name: Best Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bread Recipe – A Cozy Delight
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 1 h 45 min
Yield: 1 small loaf
Ingredients: 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice; ¼ teaspoon salt; ¾ cup granulated sugar; ¼ cup light brown sugar, packed; ¾ cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling); ⅓ cup vegetable oil (or canola, or melted coconut oil); ¼ cup unsweetened vanilla almond milk (or any neutral plant/dairy milk); 2 tablespoons mild molasses; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 3 tablespoons granulated sugar (for topping); 1 ½ teaspoons cinnamon (for topping)

Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bread is more than just a seasonal treat; it’s a quintessential autumn delight that promises to fill your home with the most enchanting aromas and your heart with pure comfort. The moment that warm, spicy fragrance begins to waft from your oven, you know something truly special is baking, signaling the cozy embrace of fall.

This beloved quick bread has a rich place in American culinary traditions, evolving from humble pumpkin recipes used by early settlers into the comforting, spiced loaves we cherish today. It has become a staple of harvest festivals and a beloved addition to Thanksgiving tables, embodying the spirit of home and hearth.

What makes this particular rendition so utterly irresistible? It’s the harmonious blend of earthy, sweet pumpkin, a medley of aromatic spices—think warm cinnamon, nutmeg, and a hint of clove—all perfectly complemented by a delightful, crunchy cinnamon sugar topping or swirl. The result is a remarkably moist, tender crumb that practically melts in your mouth, offering the perfect balance of sweetness and spice. Whether enjoyed with a morning coffee, as an afternoon snack, or even a simple dessert, Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bread consistently brings a touch of cozy warmth and pure indulgence to any moment. I am absolutely thrilled to share this cherished recipe and guide you through creating this autumn essential in your own kitchen.

Ingredients:

For the Pumpkin Bread:
- 2 ½ cups (300g) all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ⅛ teaspoon ground cloves (optional, but highly recommended for depth!)
- ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1 ½ cups (300g) granulated sugar
- ½ cup (100g) packed light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 (15-ounce) can (about 425g) pure pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling!)
- ½ cup (120ml) vegetable oil, or other neutral oil like canola or grapeseed oil
- ¼ cup (60ml) whole milk or buttermilk, at room temperature
- 1 ½ teaspoons pure vanilla extract
For the Cinnamon Sugar Swirl & Topping:
- ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Equipment You’ll Need:

Before we dive into making this incredible Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bread, it’s always a good idea to gather your equipment. You’ll need a large mixing bowl, a medium mixing bowl, a whisk, a rubber spatula, measuring cups, measuring spoons, an 8.5 x 4.5-inch or 9 x 5-inch loaf pan, and parchment paper. A wire rack for cooling is also essential for preventing a soggy bottom on your beautiful bread. Having everything ready to go will make the baking process much smoother and more enjoyable, allowing you to focus on the magic happening in your kitchen.

Preparing Your Loaf Pan: The Foundation for Perfect Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bread

First things first, let’s get our loaf pan ready. This small but crucial step ensures your beautiful Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bread comes out cleanly and perfectly formed. Take your 8.5 x 4.5-inch or 9 x 5-inch loaf pan and lightly grease it with butter or non-stick cooking spray. I like to take it a step further for absolute peace of mind: line the bottom and two long sides of the pan with a strip of parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides. This “sling” will make lifting the baked bread out incredibly easy. Grease the exposed short sides of the pan, too. Set this prepared pan aside for now.

Combining the Dry Ingredients: Laying the Flavor Foundation

In a large mixing bowl, we’re going to combine all our dry ingredients for the pumpkin bread. This is where a lot of the flavor and structure come from! Whisk together the 2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon of ground ginger, ¼ teaspoon of ground nutmeg, and the optional (but seriously delicious) ⅛ teaspoon of ground cloves. Don’t forget the ½ teaspoon of fine sea salt – salt is absolutely vital for balancing the sweetness and enhancing all those wonderful spice flavors. Whisk these ingredients thoroughly for at least 30 seconds, ensuring all the leavening agents and spices are evenly distributed throughout the flour. This prevents pockets of unmixed baking soda or unevenly spiced bread. Once combined, set this bowl aside.

Mixing the Wet Ingredients: Creating a Smooth, Aromatic Base

Now, let’s move on to the wet ingredients. In a separate, medium-sized mixing bowl, combine your sugars. Add the 1 ½ cups of granulated sugar and the ½ cup of packed light brown sugar. Brown sugar adds a lovely moistness and a subtle caramel note that complements the pumpkin perfectly.
Crack in your 2 large eggs, ensuring they are at room temperature. Room temperature eggs emulsify better with other ingredients, resulting in a smoother, more uniform batter.
Next, add the star of the show: the 1 (15-ounce) can of pure pumpkin puree. Double-check that you’re using pure pumpkin puree and not pumpkin pie filling, as the latter contains added spices and sugars that would alter the recipe significantly.
Pour in the ½ cup of vegetable oil and ¼ cup of whole milk or buttermilk. Again, room temperature milk is ideal. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can easily make a substitute by adding ½ teaspoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to ¼ cup of regular milk and letting it sit for 5-10 minutes until it slightly curdles.
Finally, add 1 ½ teaspoons of pure vanilla extract. Vanilla really brightens all the other flavors.
Using your whisk, mix these wet ingredients together thoroughly. Whisk until everything is completely combined, smooth, and no streaks of egg or lumps of sugar remain. You want a beautifully uniform orange mixture.

Combining Wet and Dry: Forming Your Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bread Batter

It’s time to bring everything together! Pour the wet ingredient mixture into the large bowl containing your dry ingredients.
Using a rubber spatula, gently fold the wet and dry ingredients together. Start by stirring from the bottom of the bowl upwards, bringing the flour up into the wet mixture. The key here is to mix until just combined. Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour too much, leading to a tough and dense pumpkin bread instead of a wonderfully tender one. Stop mixing as soon as you no longer see any dry streaks of flour. A few small lumps are perfectly fine and even preferred to an overmixed batter. This batter should be thick and fragrant.

Crafting the Cinnamon Sugar Swirl & Topping: The Signature Touch

In a small bowl, prepare the delightful cinnamon sugar mixture that will create both the swirl within and the irresistible topping on your Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bread. Combine ¼ cup of granulated sugar with 1 ½ teaspoons of ground cinnamon. Stir well with a spoon until the sugar and cinnamon are evenly blended.
In a separate tiny bowl, melt the 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. We’ll use this butter to help adhere the topping.

Assembling Your Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bread: Layers of Flavor

Now for the fun part – assembling the layers! Spoon about half of your pumpkin bread batter into the prepared loaf pan. Spread it out evenly with your rubber spatula, making sure it reaches into all the corners. Don’t worry if it’s not perfectly smooth; it will level out during baking.
Take half of your cinnamon sugar mixture and sprinkle it evenly over the layer of batter in the pan. Try to get good coverage.
Carefully spoon the remaining pumpkin bread batter over the cinnamon sugar layer. Gently spread it out to cover the cinnamon sugar, again trying not to disturb the layer underneath too much. You want to create distinct layers.
Once the top layer of batter is spread, take the remaining half of your cinnamon sugar mixture and generously sprinkle it all over the top surface of the batter. This will create a beautiful, crunchy, and aromatic crust.
Finally, take your melted butter and lightly drizzle it over the cinnamon sugar topping. This melted butter will help the cinnamon sugar caramelize beautifully and create that perfect crisp, sweet layer as it bakes. You can also gently swirl a knife through the top layer of batter and cinnamon sugar if you desire a more marbled effect on top, but simply sprinkling is often enough for a lovely finish.

Baking Instructions: The Moment of Transformation

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Ensure your oven rack is in the middle position for even baking. A properly preheated oven is crucial for the leavening agents to activate correctly, giving your Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bread its wonderful rise and tender texture.
Carefully place your loaf pan into the preheated oven.
Bake for approximately 60-75 minutes. Baking times can vary depending on your oven, so keep a close eye on it.
You’ll know your Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bread is ready when the top is beautifully golden brown, and a wooden skewer or a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached. If you see wet batter, it needs more time.
A common issue with quick breads is over-browning on the top before the center is cooked. If you notice the top browning too quickly during the last 15-20 minutes of baking, you can loosely tent the loaf pan with aluminum foil. This will protect the top from burning while allowing the inside to finish cooking.
Once baked to perfection, carefully remove the loaf pan from the oven.

Cooling and Serving Your Delicious Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bread: Patience is a Virtue!

This step is absolutely critical for the texture and integrity of your Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bread. Let the loaf cool in the pan on a wire rack for at least 15-20 minutes. During this time, the bread continues to set and firm up. Trying to remove it too soon can result in it falling apart or sticking to the pan.
After the initial cooling period in the pan, use the parchment paper sling (or carefully invert the pan if you didn’t use parchment) to gently lift the Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bread out of the pan and transfer it directly onto the wire rack.
Allow the bread to cool completely on the wire rack before slicing and serving. Seriously, I know it’s tempting, but resist the urge to slice it warm! Cooling completely allows the internal structure to fully set, making for cleaner slices and a better overall texture. It also allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together even more beautifully.
Once fully cooled, slice your delightful Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bread using a serrated knife. It’s fantastic on its own, with a smear of butter, cream cheese, or even a dollop of whipped cream.

Tips for the Best Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bread:

Don’t Overmix the Batter:

I cannot stress this enough! Overmixing is the enemy of tender quick breads. Mix until just combined, even if a few lumps remain. This ensures a light and fluffy texture, rather than a dense, rubbery one.
Room Temperature Ingredients:

This might seem like a small detail, but using room temperature eggs and milk allows them to incorporate more smoothly into the batter, creating a more uniform emulsion and a better final texture. Plan ahead and take them out of the fridge about 30 minutes to an hour before you start.
Accurate Measuring:

Especially with flour, it’s best to spoon and level. Don’t scoop the flour directly from the bag with your measuring cup, as this can compact it and lead to using too much flour, resulting in a dry bread.
Pure Pumpkin Puree:

Always double-check your can! Pumpkin pie filling is already spiced and sweetened, and will significantly alter the flavor profile of your Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bread.
Customize Your Spices:

While my spice blend is fantastic, feel free to adjust it to your liking. Love ginger? Add a little more! Not a fan of cloves? Leave them out. Make this Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bread truly your own.
Storage:

This Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bread stores wonderfully! Keep it wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can slice it and freeze individual slices, wrapped well, for up to 2-3 months. Just thaw at room temperature or gently warm in the microwave or toaster oven for a quick treat.
Serving Suggestions:

While incredible on its own, this bread is also delicious with a simple cream cheese frosting, a drizzle of maple glaze, or alongside your morning coffee or tea. It’s perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even a light dessert.
Adjust Baking Time:

Every oven is different. Pay attention to how your bread is baking and adjust the time as needed. The toothpick test is your best friend here.
The Importance of Cooling:

Don’t rush the cooling process! It’s essential for the bread’s structure and flavor to fully develop. Warm bread will crumble more easily and won’t have the same robust texture.

Making this Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bread is a truly rewarding experience, filling your home with the most comforting aromas. Enjoy every delicious bite!

Conclusion:

And there you have it, my dear fellow baking enthusiasts! We’ve journeyed through the steps of creating what I genuinely believe is not just a recipe, but an experience – a truly exceptional one that will fill your home with the most divine aromas and your taste buds with pure joy. This isn’t just another pumpkin bread recipe you scroll past; it’s the Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bread you’ll find yourself craving the moment the leaves start to turn, and probably long before that! I promise you, the effort, minimal as it is, yields rewards far exceeding expectation. What makes this recipe an absolute must-try, in my humble opinion, is its unparalleled balance. We’re talking about a bread that is unbelievably moist, tender, and fluffy, without being dense or gummy. Every bite delivers that comforting warmth of pumpkin perfectly married with a symphony of spices – cinnamon, nutmeg, and a hint of ginger, all perfectly measured to evoke that quintessential autumnal feeling without overpowering the star ingredient. Then, there’s that irresistible cinnamon-sugar swirl and topping, creating a delightful crunch and an added layer of sweetness that elevates this simple loaf into something truly extraordinary. It’s the kind of bread that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, a slice of pure comfort that reminds you of everything good about home baking.

I’ve always felt that food should be an adventure, a canvas for creativity, and this recipe is no exception. While it’s absolutely perfect as is, I encourage you to think of it as a wonderful starting point for your own culinary explorations. When it comes to serving, a warm slice of this magnificent bread is simply sublime with a steaming mug of coffee or a comforting cup of tea. It makes for an incredible breakfast, a delightful afternoon snack, or even a surprisingly elegant dessert. For an extra touch of indulgence, try serving it slightly warmed with a generous dollop of freshly whipped cream, perhaps infused with a hint of maple syrup or vanilla extract. If you’re feeling particularly decadent, a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream melting into the warm bread is an absolute dream, creating a heavenly dessert that everyone will adore. And for those who love a bit of tang, a thin spread of homemade cream cheese frosting or a simple lemon glaze drizzled over the top adds another layer of complexity that is simply divine.

Creative Twists and Variations:

Don’t be afraid to make this recipe your own! Here are a few ideas to get your creative juices flowing:

Nutty Affair: For added texture and a rich, earthy flavor, fold in about ½ to ¾ cup of chopped pecans or walnuts into the batter before baking. Toasting the nuts lightly beforehand can really bring out their flavor.
Chocolate Lover’s Dream: Who doesn’t love chocolate? Stir in a cup of chocolate chips – milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even white chocolate – for a sweet surprise in every bite.
Dried Fruit Delight: Incorporate ½ cup of dried cranberries or golden raisins for a chewiness and a touch of fruity tartness that beautifully complements the pumpkin and spices.
Spice it Up: While our spice blend is balanced, feel free to adjust to your personal preference. A pinch more ginger or a dash of allspice could add an interesting twist.
Glaze Craze: Beyond cream cheese frosting, a simple powdered sugar glaze (powdered sugar mixed with a little milk or orange juice) or a maple glaze (powdered sugar, maple syrup, and a splash of milk) can add a beautiful finish and an extra layer of sweetness.

Now, it’s your turn! I genuinely hope you feel inspired to head into your kitchen, gather your ingredients, and embark on this delightful baking adventure. There’s truly nothing quite like the satisfaction of pulling a perfectly baked loaf of this incredible Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bread from the oven, its intoxicating aroma filling every corner of your home. It’s a moment of pure culinary magic, a testament to the simple joys of homemade goodness. Once you’ve tried it, please, please share your experience with me! I absolutely love hearing from you. Did you try a variation? What did you serve it with? How did your family and friends react? Your feedback, your photos, and your stories truly make my day and help build a wonderful community of fellow food lovers. So go on, preheat that oven, mix up that batter, and prepare to fall in love with your new favorite fall treat!