There’s something magical about October baking. The crisp air, falling leaves, and golden glow of autumn invite us into the kitchen to stir up something comforting and full of seasonal spice. And while pumpkin spice is everywhere this time of year, nothing beats a homemade loaf of Pumpkin Spice Bread with Maple Glaze.
This bread is tender, perfectly spiced, and just sweet enough. The drizzle of maple glaze takes it from everyday snack to showstopper dessert. Serve it with a cup of tea or coffee, or wrap it up as a gift for a friend—it’s pure autumn comfort.
Ingredients
For the Pumpkin Spice Bread:
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon ginger
- ¼ teaspoon cloves
- 1 cup pumpkin purée (not pie filling)
- ½ cup vegetable oil (or melted coconut oil)
- ¾ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup milk (any kind)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Maple Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Splash of milk, if needed to thin
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line with parchment.
- In a bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and spices.
- In another bowl, whisk pumpkin purée, oil, sugars, eggs, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
- Add dry ingredients to wet and stir gently until just combined—don’t overmix.
- Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool completely before glazing.
- For the glaze, whisk powdered sugar, maple syrup, and vanilla until smooth. Drizzle over cooled bread.
Tips for the Perfect Pumpkin Bread
- Use fresh pumpkin purée if you can—it gives richer flavor.
- Add a handful of chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch.
- For extra decadence, sprinkle a little cinnamon sugar on top before baking.
Embracing October in the Kitchen
Baking isn’t just about food—it’s about ritual, warmth, and connection. When we bake with the flavors of the season, we’re aligning with nature’s rhythm and giving ourselves a delicious reminder to slow down and savor.
So light a candle, play your favorite cozy playlist, and let this Pumpkin Spice Bread with Maple Glaze bring a little extra sweetness to your October days.
