If you love the cozy flavors of fall wrapped up in a moist, tender loaf, then you are going to fall head over heels for this Easy Streusel Pumpkin Bread. This delightful recipe combines the rich warmth of pumpkin puree and classic autumn spices with the irresistible crunch of a buttery streusel topping. It’s the perfect comfort food for any season but especially shines when the air turns crisp and pumpkin cravings hit. Whether for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, this Easy Streusel Pumpkin Bread is a showstopper that’s surprisingly simple to make and endlessly satisfying to share with friends and family.

Easy Streusel Pumpkin Bread Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Easy Streusel Pumpkin Bread plays a key role in creating that perfect balance of richness, spice, and texture. From the creamy pumpkin puree that gives it moisture and flavor to the aromatic spices that bring warmth, these staple pantry items come together with just a few simple touches to form a loaf you’ll want to bake again and again.

All-purpose flour: Forms the sturdy yet tender base of both the bread and the streusel topping, ensuring structure without heaviness.

Light or dark brown sugar: Adds deep, molasses-like sweetness and enhances the overall richness and color of the bread and streusel.
Cinnamon: Infuses every bite with classic autumn spice, critical for that signature pumpkin flavor vibe.

Kosher salt: Balances sweetness and enhances the other flavors for a well-rounded taste experience.
Unsalted butter: Melted to blend smoothly, it lends richness to the streusel and moistness to the bread.

Pumpkin puree: The star ingredient, packed with moisture, natural sweetness, and that iconic fall flavor.
Vegetable oil: Keeps the bread incredibly moist and tender, complementing the denser pumpkin puree perfectly.
Granulated sugar: Works alongside brown sugar to create depth in sweetness and proper lift in the bread.

Large eggs: Bind everything together and add richness, helping with the rise and texture.
Baking powder and baking soda: The leavening duo that makes this bread rise beautifully while keeping a soft crumb.
Freshly grated nutmeg, ground ginger, and ground cloves: A warm, aromatic spice mix that creates layers of flavor and makes this bread truly crave-worthy.

How to Make Easy Streusel Pumpkin Bread

Step 1: Prepare the Streusel Topping

The streusel is what elevates this pumpkin bread from classic to absolutely addictive. Begin by whisking together the dry ingredients—flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and kosher salt—until they are evenly combined. Pour in melted butter and stir just until crumbly. The key is to mix gently without overworking so that the topping stays light and crumbly after baking. Pop this in the fridge to chill while you work on the pumpkin bread batter, ensuring it will be perfectly firm to sprinkle on top.

Step 2: Preheat and Prep Your Pan

Set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and ready a 9×5 loaf pan by greasing it well and lining it with parchment paper that extends above the edges. This step not only prevents sticking but also makes removing the bread a breeze once baked. Using parchment also helps contain any potential batter overflow during baking.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth and well-blended. The mixture might look thick but is wonderfully moist. Add the eggs one at a time, whisking thoroughly after each, to incorporate air and create a luscious, smooth batter.

Step 4: Add Spices and Leavening Agents

Sprinkle baking powder, baking soda, and kosher salt over the wet mixture and whisk to combine thoroughly. Next, add the cinnamon, freshly grated nutmeg, ground ginger, and a pinch of ground cloves. These traditional pumpkin pie spices fill the batter with fragrant warmth. Whisk gently to distribute all the spices evenly.

Step 5: Fold in the Flour

Finally, fold in the all-purpose flour using a spatula. Mix just until the flour disappears into the batter, avoiding overmixing to keep the bread tender and soft. The batter should be thick but pourable—perfect for a moist crumb.

Step 6: Assemble and Bake

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and sprinkle the cold streusel topping evenly over the surface. Place the pan on a baking sheet in case of spills and put it on the middle rack of your oven. Bake for 65 to 80 minutes, testing doneness with a toothpick inserted in the center; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. If the top browns too quickly, tent it loosely with foil. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 to 15 minutes before using the parchment overhang to lift it out. Cool completely before slicing for the best texture and flavor.

How to Serve Easy Streusel Pumpkin Bread

Garnishes

While this Easy Streusel Pumpkin Bread stands delicious on its own, a pat of softened butter or a drizzle of cream cheese glaze can elevate it to next-level indulgence. You could also sprinkle a tiny pinch of cinnamon on top just before serving to enhance that spicy aroma. Freshly whipped cream or a dollop of mascarpone works beautifully for a dessert-like twist.

Side Dishes

This pumpkin bread pairs beautifully with warm beverages like chai tea, coffee, or spiced apple cider. For a heartier breakfast, serve alongside a simple egg scramble or a bowl of yogurt topped with granola and fresh fruit. It’s equally delightful with a light salad or a cheese platter for an afternoon snack served at a gathering.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive touch, slice the bread into thinner pieces and toast lightly before spreading with your favorite nut butter or jam. You can also cube leftover bread, toast it, and use it as a crunchy salad topping or transform it into mini bread puddings. Wrapping slices in parchment tied with twine makes a charming homemade gift for friends and neighbors.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Easy Streusel Pumpkin Bread keeps wonderfully in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you live in a warmer climate or want to keep it fresher longer, storing it loosely covered in the fridge will preserve its moist texture for up to a week.

Freezing

This pumpkin bread freezes fantastically! Wrap slices individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. When you want a slice, simply thaw overnight in the fridge or warm slices in the toaster or oven for a quick treat anytime.

Reheating

To bring the bread back to fresh-baked warmth, pop slices into a toaster oven or conventional oven at 325 degrees Fahrenheit for about 5-7 minutes. Microwave reheating works in a pinch but may soften the streusel topping, so oven warming is preferred for that perfect texture.

FAQs

Can I use canned pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree?

It’s best to use pure pumpkin puree for this recipe. Pumpkin pie filling contains added sugars and spices which will alter the bread’s balance of flavors and sweetness.

What can I substitute for vegetable oil?

You can use melted coconut oil or a light olive oil as alternatives, but avoid strongly flavored oils to keep the pumpkin’s warm flavor front and center.

How do I make sure the bread cooks evenly?

Using parchment to line the loaf pan and placing the pan on a baking sheet helps even heat distribution. Avoid opening the oven frequently during baking as that can cause uneven rising.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in a 1:1 ratio. Choose one that includes xanthan gum for the best texture and avoid oat-based blends unless certified gluten-free.

How long does the streusel topping stay crunchy?

It stays delightfully crisp on the first day but will soften slightly after storing due to moisture from the pumpkin bread. Toasting slices before serving can help refresh the crunch.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Streusel Pumpkin Bread is my go-to recipe whenever I want a cozy, crowd-pleasing treat packed with the best flavors of fall. Its tender crumb, fragrant spices, and crumbly topping come together effortlessly to create something truly special. I hope you enjoy baking and sharing this pumpkin bread as much as I do—it’s simply irresistible and perfect for every occasion!

Easy Streusel Pumpkin Bread Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 24 reviews

Author: Mariam

Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
Yield: 1 loaf (about 10–12 slices) 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

This Easy Streusel Pumpkin Bread is a moist, flavorful quick bread perfect for fall or anytime you crave a cozy treat. It features a tender pumpkin-infused batter packed with warm spices and is topped with a buttery cinnamon streusel for a delightful crunch. Simple to make and baked in one loaf, it’s an excellent snack, breakfast, or dessert option that appeals to pumpkin lovers.

Instructions

Prepare the Streusel: In a medium bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, 6 tablespoons brown sugar, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt. Pour in 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter and stir until just combined and crumbly. Place the streusel mixture in the refrigerator to chill while preparing the pumpkin bread.
Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper, making sure the parchment extends up the long sides of the pan for easy bread removal later.

Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the 15 oz pumpkin puree, 3/4 cup vegetable oil, 1 cup light brown sugar, and 1/2 cup granulated sugar until thoroughly combined. Add the eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition.
Add Leavening and Spices: Sprinkle baking powder, baking soda, and salt (1.5 tsp, 3/4 tsp, 3/4 tsp respectively) over the pumpkin mixture and whisk to combine. Then add cinnamon, nutmeg, ground ginger, and ground cloves (5 tsp, 1/2 tsp, 1/4 tsp, and a pinch respectively), stirring well to evenly distribute the spices.
Fold in Flour: Gradually fold in the 2 cups all-purpose flour until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to avoid developing too much gluten which can make the bread tough.

Assemble and Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Evenly sprinkle the chilled streusel mixture over the top. Place the pan on a baking sheet to catch any overflow and put on the middle rack of the oven. Bake for 65 to 80 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean with just a few crumbs attached. If the top browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil halfway through baking.
Cool and Serve: Remove from oven and let the bread cool in the pan for 10 to 15 minutes. Trim any overflow from the sides if necessary, then lift the bread out using the parchment paper and allow to cool completely on a wire rack before slicing and serving.

Notes

Make sure to not overmix the batter after adding the flour to keep the bread tender.

If your top is browning too fast during baking, loosely cover it with foil to prevent burning.
You can store the pumpkin bread wrapped tightly at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
For added texture, consider folding in 1/2 cup chopped nuts or chocolate chips with the flour.

Use fresh spices for best flavor, especially cinnamon and nutmeg.
Let the bread cool completely before slicing to ensure clean slices and better texture.

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 80 minutes
Category: Bread, Snack
Method: Baking

Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12 of loaf)
Calories: 300

Sugar: 20g
Sodium: 250mg
Fat: 18g

Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 13g
Trans Fat: 0g

Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 4g

Cholesterol: 40mg

Keywords: pumpkin bread, streusel topping, fall recipes, quick bread, cinnamon bread, pumpkin dessert