Enjoy the cozy flavors of fall with this Small Batch Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Bread. This moist and flavorful pumpkin bread features a delightful cinnamon swirl, perfect for satisfying your cravings without making a large batch. Ideal for a quick snack or a sweet breakfast treat, this recipe is simple to follow and yields just the right amount for a small gathering.
Ingredients:
For the Pumpkin Bread:
3/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
1/4 tsp ground ginger
1/2 cup pumpkin puree
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1 egg
1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
For the Cinnamon Swirl:
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1/2 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Directions:
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a small loaf pan (approximately 5×3 inches) or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt. This blend of spices will give your bread a warm, aromatic flavor.
Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, mix together the pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, brown sugar, granulated sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth. The pumpkin puree not only adds flavor but also keeps the bread moist.
Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay!
Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl: In a small bowl, mix together the sugar and cinnamon for the swirl. This mixture will create a delicious ribbon of cinnamon goodness throughout your bread.
Layer the Batter: Pour half of the pumpkin batter into the prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the batter. Add the remaining pumpkin batter on top, followed by the rest of the cinnamon-sugar. Use a knife to gently swirl the cinnamon mixture through the batter for that perfect swirl effect.
Bake: Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The aroma will fill your kitchen and tantalize your senses!
Cool and Serve: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy your delicious pumpkin bread warm or at room temperature.
Serving Tips:
Freshly Sliced: Enjoy the bread warm or at room temperature. If you’ve just baked it, let it cool slightly before slicing to maintain its moisture and texture.
Spread Options: Serve slices with a generous spread of butter or cream cheese for added richness. A drizzle of honey or maple syrup can also enhance the flavor.
Pairing Ideas: Complement your pumpkin bread with a hot beverage like coffee, tea, or spiced cider. This combination makes for a cozy treat, especially in fall and winter.
Toast It: For an extra layer of flavor, try toasting slices in a toaster or on a skillet with a little butter until golden brown. This gives the bread a delightful crispy texture.
Garnish: Top with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream for a special touch, especially if serving as a dessert.
Storage Tips:
Room Temperature: If you plan to eat the bread within 1-2 days, store it at room temperature. Keep it wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container to retain moisture.
Refrigeration: For longer storage, place the pumpkin bread in the refrigerator, where it can last for up to a week. Again, make sure it’s tightly wrapped or in an airtight container.
Freezing: To extend its shelf life even further, freeze the bread. Wrap slices individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a resealable freezer bag or airtight container. This way, you can thaw only what you need. Frozen pumpkin bread can last for up to 3 months.
Thawing: To thaw, simply leave the slices at room temperature for a few hours or microwave them for about 15-20 seconds until warmed through. Enjoy the comforting flavors of your pumpkin bread any time!
Avoiding Dryness: When storing, make sure the bread is completely cool before wrapping it. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the bread soggy or lead to mold growth.
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