If you have a soft spot for all things pumpkin and crave that perfect cozy bakery treat at home, you are in for a real delight with this Better Than Starbucks One-Bowl Pumpkin Bread Recipe. Imagine the warm, spicy aroma filling your kitchen, a tender, moist loaf packed with vibrant pumpkin flavor, and the best part? It’s all whipped up in one bowl, with simple ingredients and zero fuss. This pumpkin bread is truly the ultimate fall comfort food, deliciously richer and more flavorful than any store-bought loaf, making it an instant favorite you’ll want to bake again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe is a perfect example of how a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients can come together to create something magical. Each item plays a crucial role, from the creamy pumpkin puree that brings moisture and earthiness to the warm spices that give it that iconic pumpkin bread personality.
- 3 large eggs: They provide structure and a rich, tender crumb that holds everything together beautifully.
- 1½ cups pumpkin puree: The star ingredient giving moisture, autumn flavor, and that gorgeous orange hue.
- â…” cup sunflower oil: Or any mild-flavored oil to keep the bread wonderfully moist without overpowering the spices.
- 1 cup sugar: Adds sweetness and aids in creating a soft texture.
- ½ cup light brown sugar (packed): Brings a subtle hint of caramel for depth and complexity.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla: Enhances the overall flavor with a lovely aromatic note.
- 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice: The heart of that traditional pumpkin spice flavor; a warm, cozy blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon: Amplifies that sweet, woody spice flavor we adore in pumpkin treats.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the bread rise nicely, creating a tender texture.
- ¾ teaspoon baking powder: Works with baking soda to give perfect lift and lightness.
- ¾ teaspoon salt: Balances and enhances the sweetness and spices.
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour: The backbone of the bread providing structure.
- 3 tablespoons pepitas (pumpkin seeds): Adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor on top.
- 1 teaspoon honey (or maple syrup): Binds the pepitas for a sticky, glossy topping that caramelizes as it bakes.
- ½ teaspoon sunflower oil: A little extra oil for mixing with the pepitas to ensure they stick perfectly on the crust.
How to Make Better Than Starbucks One-Bowl Pumpkin Bread Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Start by heating your oven to a cozy 350ºF (180ºC). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with baking spray to ensure your bread comes out effortlessly, and line a sheet pan with foil to catch any drips or spills. These small prep steps save you from sticky situations later and guarantee that beautiful loaf shape we all love.
Step 2: Whisk Together the Wet Ingredients
Crack your 3 eggs into a medium-large bowl and whisk until smooth and airy. Next, pour in the pumpkin puree and whisk again until it’s perfectly lump-free. Add the sunflower oil, white sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla extract, stirring everything until you have a silky, smooth mixture—this is where the magic begins as the sugars dissolve and the flavors meld.
Step 3: Spice It Up and Add Leavening
Sprinkle in the pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, baking soda, baking powder, and salt right over the pumpkin mixture. Stir gently but thoroughly to combine all those warming spices evenly throughout the batter. These spices are what give this Better Than Starbucks One-Bowl Pumpkin Bread Recipe its signature vibrant and soul-warming flavor.
Step 4: Stir in the Flour
Add the all-purpose flour gradually, folding it into the wet ingredients just until no large lumps remain. Be careful not to overmix at this stage—that’s the secret to keeping the bread wonderfully tender and moist once baked.
Step 5: Prepare the Topping
In a small bowl, combine the pepitas with honey and that extra bit of sunflower oil. If your honey is thicker, microwave the mixture for 10-15 seconds to make it easier to stir. This delectable topping will give your pumpkin bread a shiny, nutty crunch that’s utterly addictive and visually stunning.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the surface. Scatter the pepita topping evenly over the top, pressing lightly so it sticks. Place the pan on the foil-lined sheet pan and bake for 55-65 minutes. Keep an eye on the bread after about 40 minutes; if the top is browning too quickly, tent foil over the loaf’s sides and top to prevent burning. Use a toothpick inserted in the center or an instant-read thermometer (195-205ºF) to check for doneness. Once out of the oven, cool the bread in the pan for 20 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Let it cool completely before slicing—or at least try to wait if you can!
How to Serve Better Than Starbucks One-Bowl Pumpkin Bread Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate this pumpkin bread into a stunning treat, consider a light smear of softened butter or cream cheese. For a festive touch, sprinkle extra toasted pepitas or dust with powdered sugar just before serving. These simple garnishes can add an irresistible finishing touch that highlights the bread’s warm spices and moist crumb.
Side Dishes
This pumpkin bread pairs perfectly with cozy beverages like spiced chai tea, a frothy latte, or even a smooth cup of hot chocolate. For a heartier brunch, serve slices alongside scrambled eggs or fresh fruit salad to balance out the sweetness and create a delightful meal experience.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress guests, slice the bread thick and serve with a dollop of whipped cream or mascarpone, topped with a drizzle of maple syrup. Alternatively, turn slices into decadent mini French toasts by dipping them in a cinnamon-vanilla egg wash and pan-frying until golden. The versatility of this pumpkin bread means it can easily be dressed up or enjoyed simply.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap your leftover pumpkin bread tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. Keeping it sealed prevents the bread from drying out, preserving its soft texture and scrumptious flavor.
Freezing
This Better Than Starbucks One-Bowl Pumpkin Bread Recipe freezes beautifully. Slice and wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap, then place them in a zip-top freezer bag for up to three months. This way, you can enjoy a slice of cozy fall treat any time without the full baking effort.
Reheating
To revive a slice from the fridge or freezer, warm it gently in a toaster oven or microwave for 20-30 seconds until soft and fragrant. A quick reheat brings back that fresh-baked feel, making it just as delightful as the day you baked it.
FAQs
Can I use canned pumpkin for this recipe?
Absolutely! Canned pumpkin puree works perfectly here and is actually what I use most often. Just be sure it’s pure pumpkin and not pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugars and spices.
What oil can I substitute if I don’t have sunflower oil?
Any mild-flavored oil like vegetable, canola, or light olive oil will work fine. The key is to use an oil that won’t overpower the pumpkin and spice flavors.
Why is it called a one-bowl recipe?
Because everything mixes in one bowl—no separate creaming or multiple bowls required. It keeps the process simple and cleanup minimal while producing a moist, flavorful bread.
Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to this pumpkin bread?
Definitely! Walnuts or pecans add a nice crunch, and chocolate chips add a sweet surprise. Just fold in about ½ cup of your chosen add-ins after mixing the flour for extra texture and flavor.
How do I know when the pumpkin bread is done baking?
The best ways are using a toothpick inserted in the center which should come out clean, or an instant-read thermometer reaching 195-205ºF. These methods help make sure your bread is perfectly baked, tender, and moist.
Final Thoughts
This Better Than Starbucks One-Bowl Pumpkin Bread Recipe isn’t just a quick and easy bake; it’s a heartfelt invitation to enjoy fall’s best flavors in every tender slice. Whether you’re cozying up on a chilly morning or surprising friends with a homemade treat, this pumpkin bread will quickly become your go-to recipe. So grab your mixing bowl, and let’s get baking—the warm, spiced aroma and that perfect pumpkin bite are waiting!
Print
Delicious Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55-65 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Better Than Starbucks One-Bowl Pumpkin Bread is a moist, flavorful fall favorite made with pumpkin puree, warm spices, and topped with a crunchy pepita glaze. Easy to prepare and baked in a single bowl, this recipe delivers a perfectly spiced loaf ideal for breakfast, snacks, or dessert.
Ingredients
For the Bread
- 3 large eggs
- 1½ cups pumpkin puree
- â…” cup sunflower oil or any mild-flavored oil
- 1 cup sugar
- ½ cup light brown sugar (packed)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ¾ teaspoon baking powder
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
For the Topping
- 3 tablespoons pepitas (pumpkin seeds)
- 1 teaspoon honey (or maple syrup)
- ½ teaspoon sunflower oil or any mild-flavored oil
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pans: Preheat your oven to 350ºF (180ºC). Spray a 9×5-inch loaf pan with baking spray and set aside. Line a sheet pan with foil and set aside as well.
- Whisk Eggs: In a medium-large bowl, whisk the 3 large eggs thoroughly until well combined.
- Add Pumpkin and Wet Ingredients: Add 1½ cups pumpkin puree to the eggs and whisk until smooth. Then add ⅔ cup sunflower oil, 1 cup sugar, ½ cup light brown sugar, and 2 teaspoons vanilla extract. Mix all until the batter is nice and smooth.
- Add Spices and Leavening: Sprinkle 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice, 2 teaspoons cinnamon, 1 teaspoon baking soda, ¾ teaspoon baking powder, and ¾ teaspoon salt over the pumpkin mixture. Stir to combine well.
- Incorporate Flour: Add 1½ cups all-purpose flour and stir gently just until the flour disappears and no large lumps remain. Avoid overmixing.
- Prepare Topping Mixture: In a small bowl, combine 3 tablespoons pepitas, 1 teaspoon honey (or maple syrup), and ½ teaspoon sunflower oil. To make mixing easier, heat the mixture for 10-15 seconds in the microwave to thin the honey, then stir to combine. Set aside.
- Transfer Batter to Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top evenly.
- Add Topping: Scatter the pepita and honey mixture evenly over the batter’s surface.
- Bake the Bread: Place the loaf pan on the foil-lined sheet pan and bake for 55-65 minutes. Check at 40-45 minutes; if the top is browning too quickly, pull up the foil around the sides and loosely cover the top to prevent over-browning. Bake until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or an instant-read thermometer reads 195-205ËšF.
- Adjust Baking Time for Smaller Pans: If using smaller pans, bake for 25-30 minutes, checking doneness with a thermometer or toothpick.
- Cool the Bread: Let the pumpkin bread cool in the pan for 20 minutes. Then, remove it and transfer to a cooling rack. Allow it to cool completely before slicing for best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Using an instant-read thermometer is the best way to check for doneness; aim for 195-205ËšF internal temperature.
- Adjust baking time if using smaller loaf pans as they will bake faster.
- Microwaving the pepita topping mixture briefly makes it easier to spread evenly.
- Store leftover bread wrapped tightly at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- This recipe can be made with maple syrup as a honey substitute for a vegan-friendly topping.
