This Chai Spice Maple Pumpkin Bread is a cozy treat packed with warm spices like cinnamon and ginger, plus a hint of sweetness from maple syrup. It’s perfect for fall!
Baking this bread fills your kitchen with delightful aromas that make you feel right at home. I love having a slice with my morning coffee—pure happiness! ☕🍞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-purpose flour: This is the base for your bread, providing structure. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you can try a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Spices: The chai spices are what truly make this bread special. If you don’t have them all, you can substitute with a pre-mixed chai spice blend or just stick to cinnamon and ginger for a simpler flavor.
Maple syrup: For a lovely sweetness and flavor, using pure maple syrup is ideal. If it’s not available, honey or agave syrup can work as alternatives, but note they will change the flavor slightly.
Pumpkin puree: Canned pumpkin is convenient, but if you have fresh pumpkin, just roast and puree it! If you need a substitute, mashed banana or applesauce can add moisture, but the flavor will differ.
Buttermilk: You can easily make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to 1/2 cup of milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes.
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Texture for This Bread?
Getting the right texture is all about the mixing method. Overmixing can make your bread tough. Here’s how to ensure it’s perfect:
- Start by combining dry ingredients in one bowl and wet in another.
- When combining the two, gently fold them together until just mixed. It’s okay if there are a few lumps—this helps keep the bread tender!
- Don’t forget to scrape down the sides of the bowl to incorporate everything, but do it lightly.
Baking is all about love and patience, so take your time with each step. Enjoy the wonderful smells from your oven! 🍞✨
How to Make Chai Spice Maple Pumpkin Bread
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bread:
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup pumpkin puree (canned or fresh)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup buttermilk or plain yogurt
For the Glaze:
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1-2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon milk or cream (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful bread requires about 15 minutes of preparation time, plus 55-65 minutes to bake. After baking, allow it to cool for about 10 minutes in the pan and then let it cool completely on a wire rack. Overall, you’ll be enjoying this warm, spiced treat in just a little over an hour and a half!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is warming up, grease and flour a 9×5 inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent the bread from sticking.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and all the chai spices: cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, cloves, black pepper, and nutmeg. This mixture brings all those wonderful flavors together. Set this bowl aside for later!
3. Cream the Butter and Sweeteners:
In a large bowl, use a mixer to cream the softened butter with the maple syrup and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. It’s essential for a soft bread texture!
4. Add the Eggs and Pumpkin:
Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure to mix well after each addition. Then, add the pumpkin puree and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is well combined. Your batter will be looking delicious!
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Now it’s time to combine both mixtures. Alternately add the dry flour mixture and the buttermilk (or yogurt) to the wet ingredients, starting and ending with the flour mixture. Gently mix until just combined. Remember, it’s okay if there are a few lumps—don’t overmix!
6. Bake the Bread:
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Your kitchen will be filled with wonderful scents!
7. Cooling Time:
Once baked, allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. After that, carefully remove it from the pan and transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Whip Up the Glaze:
While the bread is cooling, prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, maple syrup, and milk (if using) until smooth and creamy. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk or powdered sugar as needed.
9. Drizzle and Serve:
Once the bread is completely cool, drizzle the glaze over the top. Slice it up and serve with a comforting cup of tea or coffee. Enjoy the warm, spiced flavors of this delicious Chai Spice Maple Pumpkin Bread!
Happy baking! 🍞✨
Can I Use Canned Pumpkin Puree Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Canned pumpkin puree is convenient and works perfectly for this bread. Just make sure to select 100% pumpkin puree without added sugars or spices for the best results.
Can I Substitute Maple Syrup with Something Else?
Yes, if you don’t have maple syrup, you can use honey or agave syrup. Keep in mind that the flavor will differ a bit, but it’ll still be delicious!
How Should I Store Leftover Pumpkin Bread?
Store any leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a resealable bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge or at room temperature before enjoying.
Can I Add Nuts or Chocolate Chips to This Recipe?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in 1/2 to 1 cup of chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans) or chocolate chips for added texture and flavor. Just fold them in gently with the flour mixture before baking.
