When the crisp air of fall rolls in, nothing feels more comforting than the smell of pumpkin pecan bread baking in the oven. This loaf blends earthy pumpkin, warm spices, and crunchy pecans into a treat that tastes like autumn itself. In this article, you’ll discover the story behind this cozy bread, the essential ingredients for perfect texture, step-by-step baking tips, and the best ways to serve and store it. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting your journey, pumpkin pecan bread is a recipe that will quickly become a seasonal tradition.
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The Story & Why Pumpkin Pecan Bread Belongs in Fall
A Fall Tradition with Pumpkin Pecan Bread
Hi there, I’m Clara, the cook behind Recipe by Clara, and pumpkin pecan bread is one of those recipes that takes me straight back to childhood. I remember standing in the kitchen while my mom stirred pumpkin puree into a golden batter, the scent of cinnamon and nutmeg filling the room. On special occasions, she tossed in pecans, which added a crunch that made every slice irresistible. That little twist transformed a simple pumpkin bread into something that felt festive and indulgent. Today, baking pumpkin pecan bread has become part of my own seasonal ritual, much like my pumpkin snickerdoodles or raisin pumpkin spice bread.
Pumpkin pecan bread captures everything we love about fall coziness, warmth, and a bit of nostalgia. Each slice feels like a hug on a chilly day, especially when served with a cup of coffee or tea. It’s the kind of recipe you can share with family, take to a potluck, or keep on hand for busy mornings when you crave something homemade.
Why Pecans Elevate Classic Pumpkin Bread
Classic pumpkin bread is soft, moist, and flavorful, but adding pecans makes it even better. Their buttery crunch balances the tender crumb, and their nutty notes enhance the sweetness of the pumpkin. While walnuts are sometimes used, pecans offer a milder flavor that complements spices like cinnamon, ginger, and cloves without overpowering them.
This simple addition also makes pumpkin pecan bread more versatile. Toasted pecans on top create a bakery-style loaf, while folding chopped pecans into the batter ensures every bite has a little crunch. Compared to recipes like raisin pumpkin spice bread, which leans on chewy sweetness, pecans bring balance and texture that keep the loaf satisfying. It’s a small change that makes a big difference.
Pumpkin pecan bread isn’t just about flavor it’s about the experience. The crackle of pecans against soft pumpkin bread turns an everyday bake into something that feels special, reminding us why certain recipes never go out of style.
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Pumpkin Pecan Bread: A Cozy Fall Favorite You’ll Love
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (10–12 slices)
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A cozy fall quick bread made with pumpkin puree, warm spices, and crunchy pecans. Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert.
Ingredients
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 cup pumpkin puree (not pie filling)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup chopped pecans (plus extra for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- In a bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
- In another bowl, mix pumpkin puree, eggs, brown sugar, and oil until smooth.
- Gradually stir dry ingredients into wet ingredients until just combined.
- Fold in chopped pecans gently.
- Pour batter into the loaf pan and smooth the top.
- Sprinkle extra pecans on top if desired.
- Bake 55–65 minutes, until a toothpick comes out with just a few moist crumbs.
- Cool 10 minutes in the pan, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
For best flavor, toast pecans before folding into the batter. Bread tastes even better the next day after resting.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients & Tips for the Perfect Pumpkin Pecan Bread
Key Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of pumpkin pecan bread lies in its simplicity. Most ingredients are pantry staples, and the addition of pecans gives the loaf its unique character. To get the best results, you’ll need:
- Pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- All-purpose flour
- Baking soda and baking powder
- Brown sugar for moisture and depth
- Warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves
- Chopped pecans, lightly toasted if you prefer extra flavor
For an added touch of indulgence, some bakers swirl in cream cheese or add chocolate chips. If that appeals to you, you might also love my pumpkin cream cheese muffins, which use a similar combination of flavors.
Here’s a quick substitution guide:
| Ingredient | Substitution |
|---|---|
| Pumpkin puree | Mashed sweet potato or butternut squash |
| Brown sugar | Coconut sugar or white sugar with molasses |
| Pecans | Walnuts or hazelnuts |
Tips for Moist and Flavorful Pumpkin Pecan Bread
Moisture is what makes pumpkin pecan bread so irresistible. Canned pumpkin tends to give consistent results, but if you want to experiment, fresh pumpkin puree works too just be sure to strain excess liquid. For spices, balance is key: cinnamon should shine, while cloves and nutmeg add warmth in the background.
When it comes to pecans, toasting them before adding to the batter intensifies their nutty flavor. Folding them in gently ensures every slice has crunch without deflating the batter. For more inspiration on flavor variations, check out my classic pumpkin bread, which shows how a few tweaks can completely change the character of the loaf.
Step-by-Step Baking Guide for Pumpkin Pecan Bread
Mixing and Preparing the Batter
Baking pumpkin pecan bread is simple enough for beginners, yet satisfying for experienced bakers. Start by whisking together your dry ingredients flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and spices in one bowl. In a separate bowl, mix the pumpkin puree, eggs, sugar, and oil until smooth. Slowly combine the wet and dry ingredients, stirring gently to avoid overmixing.
Once the batter is almost incorporated, fold in chopped pecans with a spatula. This method ensures the nuts are evenly distributed without deflating the batter. If you’re craving a little variety, you can also mix in chocolate chips or a cream cheese swirl for richness, much like the cozy twist found in my pumpkin cinnamon roll muffins.
A handy trick is to sprinkle extra pecans on top before baking. This creates a crunchy, golden topping that makes the loaf look bakery-style.
Baking and Cooling for Best Results
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a standard 9×5-inch loaf pan. Pour the batter into the pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean with just a few moist crumbs.
After baking, let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This prevents the loaf from becoming soggy on the bottom. Allow it to cool completely before slicing to keep the crumb intact.
Pumpkin pecan bread is delicious warm, but the flavors deepen as it rests, making it even better the next day. If you enjoy make-ahead seasonal desserts, you’ll also love my pumpkin pie bars, which share that same spiced pumpkin goodness in a different form.
Serving, Storing, and Freezing Pumpkin Pecan Bread
How to Serve Pumpkin Pecan Bread
Pumpkin pecan bread is one of those versatile recipes that works any time of day. A warm slice with a pat of butter makes a cozy breakfast, while a drizzle of honey or maple syrup turns it into a sweet afternoon snack. For gatherings, you can serve it with cream cheese frosting or a dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant touch.
Pairing it with coffee or chai tea brings out the spice notes and makes it perfect for fall mornings. If you’re looking for a more decadent dessert option, try serving it with whipped cream or even alongside my pumpkin spice gooey cake. Both create the ultimate fall dessert table spread.
Pumpkin pecan bread is also a wonderful addition to brunch menus, offering a seasonal contrast to savory dishes. You can even toast slices lightly and spread them with nut butter for a wholesome snack.
How to Store and Freeze for Later
One of the best things about pumpkin pecan bread is how well it keeps. At room temperature, store the loaf in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. It will stay moist for up to three days without losing flavor.
For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to a week. Be sure to wrap it well to prevent drying out. Freezing is also an excellent option simply slice the cooled loaf, wrap individual pieces in parchment paper, and place them in a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can thaw single portions whenever you crave a quick treat.
If you’re a fan of make-ahead desserts, you might also enjoy my pumpkin cake, another fall favorite that freezes beautifully. Both recipes ensure you’ll always have a taste of autumn ready when the craving strikes.
FAQs About Pumpkin Pecan Bread
What makes pumpkin pecan bread moist?
The secret to moist pumpkin pecan bread is using pumpkin puree, which naturally adds water content and softness. Brown sugar and oil also lock in moisture, ensuring the loaf stays tender for days. Avoid overbaking, as that’s the quickest way to dry out the crumb.
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned in pumpkin pecan bread?
Yes, fresh pumpkin works well, but it’s important to strain out excess liquid before adding it to the batter. Canned pumpkin is more consistent in texture, but fresh puree can add a subtle, earthy flavor that feels homemade.
How do you store pumpkin pecan bread and keep it fresh?
Store pumpkin pecan bread at room temperature in an airtight container for up to three days. For longer freshness, refrigerate it for up to a week, making sure it’s well wrapped to prevent drying out.
Can pumpkin pecan bread be frozen for later?
Absolutely! Slice the cooled loaf, wrap individual pieces in parchment, and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Frozen pumpkin pecan bread lasts up to three months and can be thawed overnight or warmed in the microwave for a quick treat.
Conclusion
Pumpkin pecan bread is the perfect blend of cozy fall flavors and satisfying texture. With its warm spices, tender crumb, and nutty crunch, it’s a recipe that works for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. Whether you bake it for family gatherings, holiday tables, or simply to enjoy with coffee on a crisp morning, this bread always feels special. The best part is how simple it is to make and how well it keeps for later. Once you try it, pumpkin pecan bread will quickly become one of your go-to seasonal favorites year after year. Follow us on Facebook for fresh new recipes, cooking tips, and food inspiration every week!