From-Scratch Pumpkin Bread With Cream Cheese Frosting
From the Blog Author
Ingredients
- 3 cups unbleached flour
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 1/2 teaspoons sea salt
- 3 cups organic cane sugar
- 2 cups pumpkin puree
- 4 eggs
- 1/2 cup oil
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 2 sticks butter
- 1 block cream cheese
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 splash pure vanilla extract
Directions
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt; set aside.
In a separate large bowl, whisk together the sugar, puree, eggs, oil, and water or juice.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
Pour the batter evenly into two greased loaf pans.
Bake at 350°F for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
While the bread cools, prepare the frosting: Beat two sticks of softened butter in a large bowl for 5 minutes.
Add one block of cream cheese and beat until smooth and combined.
Gradually add 4 cups of powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating fully after each addition.
Add a splash of pure vanilla extract and beat to combine.
Once the bread has cooled, pipe the frosting onto the loaves using a star-tip piping bag, and top with sprinkles of your choice.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How should I store this From-scratch Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting?
Once fully cooled, store the frosted pumpkin bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. If refrigerating, allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving for the best texture.
Can I substitute the oil or water in this pumpkin bread recipe?
While the recipe calls for 1/2 cup of oil and 1/2 cup of water (or orange juice), you can substitute the oil with an equal amount of melted unsalted butter for a richer flavor, though this will slightly alter the texture. For moisture, using the full 1/2 cup of orange juice instead of water adds a lovely citrus brightness.
Why is my pumpkin bread dense instead of fluffy?
Density often occurs from overmixing the batter after adding the flour, so be sure to mix only until the dry ingredients are just combined, as directed. Also, ensure your baking soda is fresh and that you are using the correct amount—2 teaspoons—to achieve the proper rise.
