Some recipes sneak up on you—not the kind you plan for months but the ones that suddenly feel urgent, like a quiet craving on a chilly afternoon. Pumpkin bread made in a bread machine is exactly that kind of comfort. It’s the scent of cinnamon and nutmeg swirling through the air, pulling you toward the kitchen before you even realize you need it. This bread isn’t flashy; it’s humble, warm, and somehow exactly what you want when the world feels a little too rushed.
I remember the last time I made this bread, the house was oddly quiet, the kind of silence that makes you notice every little sound. I started the bread machine, heard the soft whir, and then got distracted by a phone call that lasted longer than I expected. By the time I came back, the smell had filled the whole place. It was like a slow, gentle hug from the oven. I sliced into the bread a little too soon—the crumb was still tender and a bit sticky, but that just made it taste more homemade. It’s imperfect in the best way, the kind of treat you want to share but don’t want to give up either.
- Effortless: The bread machine does the heavy lifting, so you can focus on the anticipation instead of the mess.
- Cozy flavors: Pumpkin, cinnamon, and nutmeg come together for a warm, spiced experience that isn’t overpowering.
- Tradeoff: It’s simple — and that’s kind of the point. This bread isn’t about fancy decorations; it’s about the comforting basics.
- Moist texture: This loaf stays tender, perfect for breakfast or a late-night nibble.
- Flexible timing: The long baking cycle means you can start it in the morning and come back to a ready-to-eat treat.
If you’re a little nervous about using a bread machine for something other than basic bread, don’t be. It’s straightforward, and even if you forget to check it right away (I usually do), the results still impress. This pumpkin bread invites you to slow down, to pause between busy moments and enjoy something genuinely soothing.
PrintPumpkin Bread in Bread Machine
A moist and flavorful pumpkin bread made effortlessly in your bread machine. Perfect for fall or any time you crave a sweet, spiced treat.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 slices
Ingredients
1 cup canned pumpkin puree
2 large eggs
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1/4 cup water
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
Instructions
Add the pumpkin puree, eggs, vegetable oil, and water to the bread machine pan in the order recommended by the manufacturer.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, salt, baking powder, and baking soda.
Add the dry ingredients on top of the wet ingredients in the bread machine pan.
Sprinkle the sugar evenly over the top of the dry ingredients.
Select the ‘Quick Bread’ or ‘Cake’ setting on your bread machine and start the cycle.
When the baking cycle is complete, carefully remove the bread pan from the machine and let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
Turn the bread out onto a wire rack and allow it to cool completely before slicing.
Using your bread machine for quick breads is easier than you think. No fancy equipment needed—just your trusty machine and a little patience. When it’s done, slice it up and try it with a smear of butter or a drizzle of honey; both add a nice touch that’s hard to resist. If you want to mix it up, you could toss in some chopped nuts or raisins, though I haven’t tested those variations enough to swear by them. And if pumpkin isn’t your thing, swapping in mashed sweet potato might work, but again, results may vary. Serving it alongside a hot cup of coffee or tea makes the moment even better—it’s like the bread was made for those quiet breaks.
FAQ
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned? Fresh pumpkin puree can work but may affect moisture levels, so results might be a bit different.
What if my bread machine doesn’t have a quick bread setting? Try using the cake cycle if available, or a similar setting designed for non-yeast breads.
How do I store leftover pumpkin bread? Keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days, or freeze it wrapped tightly for longer storage.
Can I add mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips? You can, but I usually add them sparingly and watch the texture since the bread machine might not mix them evenly.
Ready to turn your kitchen into a cozy haven with the warm aroma of pumpkin bread? Give this bread machine version a try and see how easily comfort can come together.