Downeast Maine Pumpkin Bread – The Perfect Fall Treat
When the cool autumn breeze rolls through and the leaves begin to change, there’s nothing more comforting than the smell of freshly baked pumpkin bread filling your kitchen. This Downeast Maine Pumpkin Bread is a traditional New England recipe that has been loved for generations. Moist, flavorful, and perfectly spiced, it’s the ultimate fall quick bread that pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or even apple cider.
Unlike ordinary pumpkin bread, this recipe uses a perfect balance of spices – cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger – to create that warm, cozy aroma that everyone associates with fall. It’s also a very forgiving recipe, meaning even beginner bakers can nail it on their first try. Plus, it keeps well for days and tastes even better the next day!
Ingredients (Makes 2 Loaves)
- 1 (15 oz / 425 g) can of pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup vegetable oil (or melted butter for richer flavor)
- 2/3 cup water
- 3 cups granulated sugar
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon ground cloves
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- Optional: 1 cup chopped walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Oven & Pans
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour two 9×5-inch loaf pans or line with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, eggs, oil, water, and sugar until smooth and fully combined.
3. Combine the Dry Ingredients
- In another bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger.
- This step ensures that the spices are evenly distributed throughout the bread.
4. Bring Everything Together
- Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring just until combined.
- Do not overmix – this will keep your bread moist and tender.
- If using, fold in nuts or chocolate chips at this stage.
5. Bake to Perfection
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared loaf pans.
- Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the loaves to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Tips for the Best Pumpkin Bread
- Resting Time Enhances Flavor: Wrap the cooled bread in plastic wrap and let it rest overnight. The spices deepen, and the bread becomes even more moist.
- Add a Streusel Topping: Mix brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and butter for a crunchy top layer.
- Make It Healthier: Replace half the oil with unsweetened applesauce for a lighter version.
- Storage: Pumpkin bread keeps well at room temperature for 3–4 days or can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Serving Suggestions
- Spread with cream cheese or cinnamon butter for extra indulgence.
- Serve with a drizzle of maple syrup for a true New England touch.
- Toast slices and top with a dollop of Greek yogurt and honey for a breakfast twist.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Downeast Maine Pumpkin Bread is more than just a fall dessert – it’s a slice of tradition. Moist, spiced, and rich in flavor, it’s perfect for sharing with family during the holidays or enjoying on a quiet afternoon. It’s also incredibly versatile – serve it plain, with toppings, or even turn it into French toast the next day.