Healthy Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting

This moist and flavorful pumpkin bread is a fall baking favorite, topped with a rich cream cheese frosting that elevates it from classic quick bread to irresistible dessert. Mixed in one bowl and made with pantry staples, it’s the perfect cozy treat for cool weather.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-bowl recipe mixed by hand
• Moist and tender texture with rich pumpkin flavor
• Creamy, fluffy cream cheese frosting
• Quick and easy preparation
• Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or holiday gatherings
• Freezer-friendly and easy to make ahead
• Customizable with spice blends or gluten-free flour

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Pumpkin Bread

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup light brown sugar
• ¾ cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon nutmeg
• ¼ teaspoon ginger
• ¼ teaspoon cloves
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ¾ teaspoon salt
• 1 ¾ cups canned pumpkin (one 14-ounce can)
• ¼ cup melted butter
• ¼ cup canola oil
• ⅓ cup milk
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Icing

• 2 oz cream cheese, softened
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1 ½ to 1 ¾ cups confectioner’s sugar, sifted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1-2 tablespoons milk

Directions

For the Pumpkin Bread

1. Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a 9 x 5 x 4 inch bread pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugars, spices, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together pumpkin, butter, oil, milk, eggs, and vanilla.
4. Add wet ingredients to the dry and mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
6. Bake for 60-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Let cool in the pan for about 20 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

For the Icing

8. In a stand mixer, beat together softened cream cheese, butter, vanilla, and 1 tablespoon milk.
9. Gradually add sifted confectioner’s sugar and beat until light and fluffy.
10. Add additional milk if needed for desired consistency.
11. Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled pumpkin bread.

Servings and timing

Servings: 12 slices
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 60-65 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Calories per serving: ~370 kcal (estimated with frosting)

Variations

• Make it gluten-free by using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend
• Use 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice instead of individual spices
• Add chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch
• Swap frosting with a dusting of powdered sugar for a lighter option
• Add chocolate chips for a sweet twist

storage/reheating

Store the pumpkin bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To freeze, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Thaw overnight in the fridge. Serve cold or bring to room temperature before enjoying.

FAQs

Why is my pumpkin bread dry?

Dry pumpkin bread often results from overmixing or overbaking. Mix until just combined and test for doneness carefully.

How do I know when the pumpkin bread is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center and a few side spots. It should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

How long should I cool it before removing from the pan?

Cool the bread in the pan for about 20 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.

Can I make this bread without the frosting?

Yes! It’s delicious on its own or with a sprinkle of powdered sugar.

Can I freeze the bread with frosting?

It’s best to freeze the bread unfrosted. Add the frosting after thawing for best texture.

Can I use only oil or only butter?

Yes. Using all oil will make it moister, while all butter adds richness. A combo gives the best balance.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes, just make sure it’s well-pureed and not watery. Strain if needed.

How can I lighten the recipe?

Replace the oil with applesauce and reduce the sugar slightly for a lighter loaf.

What size pan should I use?

Use a 9 x 5 x 4 inch bread pan. If using a different size, adjust the baking time accordingly.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, double all ingredients and bake in two pans. Watch baking time carefully.

Conclusion

Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting is everything you crave in a fall baked good: moist, warmly spiced, and topped with creamy sweetness. Whether served at breakfast, brunch, or as dessert, this one-bowl recipe is an easy and delicious way to celebrate pumpkin season. Make it for guests, the holidays, or just because you deserve it!

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