Looking for a tasty fall treat? Look no further! My Cranberry Pecan Pumpkin Bread is simple to make and full of flavor. It’s perfect for cozy mornings or sharing with friends. In this recipe, I’ll guide you through every step, from gathering ingredients to baking the perfect loaf. Get ready to enjoy pumpkin goodness mixed with crunchy pecans and tart cranberries. Let’s bake something delicious together!
Ingredients
To make Cranberry Pecan Pumpkin Bread, you will need the following ingredients:
– 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup vegetable oil
– 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup fresh or dried cranberries
– 1 cup pecans, chopped
These ingredients combine to create a moist, flavorful bread. The pumpkin gives it a rich texture, while the cranberries add tartness. Pecans bring a nice crunch, making every slice a treat.
When choosing your ingredients, opt for high-quality canned pumpkin. It has a deep, sweet flavor that shines in the bread. Fresh cranberries can also work well if you prefer a pop of tartness. Don’t forget to chop your pecans for even distribution in the batter.
If you want to make this bread even more special, look for organic or locally sourced ingredients. This not only enhances the taste but also supports sustainable farming practices. You can find the full recipe to guide you through the steps.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat your oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature helps the bread bake evenly. Prepare a 9×5-inch loaf pan by greasing it lightly with butter or oil. This prevents sticking and makes it easy to remove the bread later.
Mix wet ingredients
In a large bowl, combine 1 cup of canned pumpkin puree, 1/2 cup of vegetable oil, 3/4 cup of brown sugar, and 1/2 cup of granulated sugar. Use a whisk to blend these until smooth. Mixing well ensures all flavors come together nicely.
Incorporate eggs
Add 3 large eggs one at a time to the pumpkin mixture. Whisk thoroughly after each egg. This step helps create a fluffy texture in the bread.
Combine dry ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Mixing these dry ingredients well is key to a great rise.
Mix wet and dry ingredients
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture. Stir gently with a spatula or wooden spoon until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the bread dense.
Fold in cranberries and pecans
Gently fold in 1 cup of cranberries and 1 cup of chopped pecans. This adds texture and flavor to each slice. Ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Prepare loaf pan and batter
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Use a spatula to smooth the top. This helps the bread bake evenly and look nice when it’s done.
Bake the bread
Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven. Bake for about 60 to 70 minutes. To check if it’s done, insert a toothpick into the center. It should come out clean. If the top browns too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil for the last 15 minutes.
Cool and serve
Once baked, remove the bread from the oven. Let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. Enjoy your Cranberry Pecan Pumpkin Bread! For the full recipe, refer back to the ingredients section.
Tips & Tricks
Baking tips for perfect results
To bake the best Cranberry Pecan Pumpkin Bread, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even cooking. Use a 9×5-inch loaf pan and grease it well. This helps the bread come out cleanly. Always measure your ingredients accurately. This step is key for great texture.
How to avoid a dense bread
To keep your bread light, mix your wet and dry ingredients gently. Overmixing can lead to a heavy loaf. Also, make sure to check your baking soda and powder for freshness. Old leavening agents can cause dense bread. Lastly, let your batter rest for a few minutes before baking. This helps the flavors meld.
Suggested serving ideas
Enjoy your bread warm from the oven. A pat of butter adds richness. You can also dust it with powdered sugar for a sweet touch. For a fun twist, serve it with cream cheese. It pairs well with coffee or tea. You could slice it for breakfast or as a snack. For a special occasion, add a side of cranberry sauce.
For the full recipe, check out the detailed instructions above.
Variations
Add-ins and substitutions
You can change this recipe by adding different nuts or fruits. Try walnuts or almonds for a new flavor. You can also use chocolate chips for a sweet twist. If you prefer, swap cranberries for raisins or dried cherries. You can even add spices like ginger or cloves for extra warmth.
Alternative sweeteners
If you want to use less sugar, try honey or maple syrup. These sweeteners add flavor and moisture. You can also use coconut sugar for a lower glycemic index. Just remember, using liquid sweeteners may require less oil in your mix.
Gluten-free options
For a gluten-free version, use almond flour or coconut flour. These flours give the bread a unique texture. You may need to add extra eggs or a binding agent like flaxseed meal. Ensure your baking powder is gluten-free, too. This way, everyone can enjoy a slice of this tasty bread.
For the full recipe, check out the detailed instructions above.
Storage Info
Best practices for storing
To keep your cranberry pecan pumpkin bread fresh, store it in an airtight container. You can also wrap it in plastic wrap. This helps prevent the bread from drying out. Place it in a cool, dry spot in your kitchen. If you have sliced the bread, make sure to separate the slices with parchment paper. This will keep them from sticking together.
How to freeze your bread
Freezing is a great way to save your bread for later. Start by letting the bread cool completely. Once cool, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Be sure to remove as much air as possible before sealing. You can freeze the bread for up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.
Shelf life and freshness tips
Homemade cranberry pecan pumpkin bread lasts about 5 days at room temperature. If you store it in the fridge, it can last up to a week. Keep an eye out for any signs of mold or unusual smells. If the bread starts to feel dry, slice and toast it. This can bring back some moisture and flavor. For the best taste, enjoy it fresh or within a few days of baking. For the full recipe, check back to create this delicious treat!
FAQs
What can I use instead of pecans?
You can use walnuts or almonds instead of pecans. Both nuts add crunch. If you want a nut-free option, you can skip the nuts altogether. Sunflower seeds are a great alternative too. They bring a nice texture without nuts.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can make this recipe vegan! Replace the eggs with flax eggs. To make one flax egg, mix one tablespoon of ground flaxseed with three tablespoons of water. Let it sit for five minutes to thicken. You can also use vegetable oil instead of eggs for moisture.
How do I know when my bread is done baking?
To check if your bread is done, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, the bread is ready. If there’s batter on it, let it bake for a few more minutes. The top should be golden brown and spring back when touched.
Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
Yes, you can use fresh cranberries! Fresh cranberries will add a tart flavor. If you use them, you might want to add a little extra sugar to balance the tartness. Just chop them coarsely and fold them into the batter like dried ones.
How to serve Cranberry Pecan Pumpkin Bread?
You can serve this bread warm or at room temperature. Slice it and add a pat of butter for a warm, rich taste. For a fun twist, dust the top with powdered sugar. This bread is perfect for breakfast, snacks, or gatherings. Enjoy every bite! For the full recipe, check out the details above.
This blog post covered how to make delicious Cranberry Pecan Pumpkin Bread. You learned about the ingredients, steps, and baking tips for great results. I shared storage methods and answered common questions about the recipe.
With these tips, baking this bread will be easy and fun. Enjoy it fresh or share it with friends. Happy baking!
