There’s something downright magical about slicing into a freshly baked loaf of Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting. The warming spices, silky pumpkin puree, and luscious swirl of tangy frosting combine to make a treat that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re embracing crisp autumn mornings or simply craving a moist, flavorful quick bread, this recipe brings comfort to the table and returns happy memories with every bite.

Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Baking Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting calls for a handful of pantry staples, each playing a special part in building perfect texture and flavor. The mix of spices, pumpkin, and a decadent frosting turns humble ingredients into an extraordinary loaf.

All-purpose flour (for streusel and bread): Gives your bread and crumb topping their tender, sturdy foundation.
Brown sugar: Adds a toasty caramel note and that signature cozy sweetness to both bread and streusel.
Pumpkin pie spice: Delivers the unmistakable warmth and fragrance we crave in pumpkin treats.
Unsalted butter (for streusel, bread, and frosting): Provides richness, ensuring maximum flavor and a melt-in-your-mouth crumb.
Baking soda: Creates lift for a loaf that’s light but still satisfyingly dense.
Ground cinnamon: Layers in extra spice for a complex, aromatic bread.
Salt: Balances the sweetness and sharpens all the flavors.
White granulated sugar: Brings classic sweetness and helps brown the crust beautifully.
Pumpkin puree: Keeps the bread ultra-moist and lends that eye-catching golden-orange hue.
Pure vanilla extract (for bread and frosting): Adds another note of depth and warmth to both the loaf and glaze.
Large eggs: Bind the batter together and provide richness for a silky crumb.
Cream cheese: Essential for that luscious, tangy-sweet frosting.
Powdered sugar: Sifts easily into the frosting, dissolving for a silky, pourable finish.
Milk: Adjusts the frosting texture for just the right drizzle consistency.
Baking nonstick spray & parchment paper: These ensure your loaf releases cleanly from the pan, every time.

How to Make Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Make the Pumpkin Spice Streusel

Start by prepping the crumbly topping—the perfect sweet crunch for your bread. In a small bowl, combine half a cup of flour, brown sugar, and a teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice. Stir it all together with a fork, then drizzle in melted butter and mix until large crumbs form. Pop that bowl into the fridge to keep the streusel firm until you’re ready to use.

Step 2: Prepare Your Loaf Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F so it’s ready when you are. Thoroughly spray a 9×5-inch loaf pan with nonstick baking spray. Next, line the bottom and two long sides with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal—but don’t forget to give the paper another quick spray! This ensures your Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting comes out picture-perfect.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of flour, baking soda, 3 teaspoons of ground cinnamon, 2 teaspoons of pumpkin pie spice, and salt. These dry ingredients will build the backbone of your beautifully spiced loaf.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, mix the cooled melted butter, both sugars, the entire can of pumpkin puree, vanilla extract, and eggs. Stir well to fully incorporate everything—this will give your bread the right moist, rich texture without any lumps.

Step 5: Make the Batter

Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients, and use a whisk or spatula to gently mix just until combined. Don’t overdo it! Overmixing is the enemy of tender quick breads.

Step 6: Assemble and Add Streusel

Scrape your pumpkin batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing out the top. Sprinkle the chilled streusel generously over the batter for a crunchy, spiced top layer.

Step 7: Bake

Slide your loaf into the oven and bake for 55–65 minutes, until a toothpick poked in the center comes out mostly clean with just a few crumbs. If your streusel is browning too fast, loosely cover with foil near the end.

Step 8: Cool

Let the bread sit in the warm pan about 10 minutes—this lets it firm up so it won’t break. Carefully lift your Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting out using the parchment “handles,” then let it cool completely on a wire rack before adding the frosting. Patience pays off here!

Step 9: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

Beat the softened cream cheese, butter, and vanilla in a small bowl with a hand mixer on high speed until ultra-smooth and creamy. Add the powdered sugar on low and pour in milk little by little, mixing until you have a pourable, silky glaze.

Step 10: Frost and Finish

Set your cooled loaf (still on its rack) over a baking sheet to catch drips. Pour or drizzle the cream cheese frosting generously over the top and let it cascade down the sides. Every bite of Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting will have a perfect balance of spice and sweet tang!

How to Serve Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting

Garnishes

Dress up your loaf with a sprinkle of chopped toasted pecans, a dusting of cinnamon, or even a ribbon of caramel sauce for extra flair. A few candied ginger bits add playful zing, while orange zest brings a dazzling pop of color and fresh aroma.

Side Dishes

Pair a fat slice of Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting with a hot mug of coffee, spiced chai, or a simple glass of cold milk. For brunch, offer up sides like sliced fresh pears, crisp apples, or even a scoop of vanilla yogurt. It’s decadent, yet totally at home with lighter fruits and warm autumn drinks.

Creative Ways to Present

For a party-worthy presentation, slice the bread and arrange on a beautiful platter with small bowls of extra frosting for dipping. Cut into thick cubes for a DIY dessert board, or gift-wrap individual slices for a thoughtful homemade treat. Warm it and serve under a dome of vanilla ice cream if you’re feeling especially indulgent!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting covered in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The bread stays moist for up to 4 days, and chilling helps keep the frosting firm and fresh. Bring to room temp before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Freezing

Want to savor this treat beyond the week? Wrap unfrosted Pumpkin Bread tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then add your cream cheese frosting just before serving so it stays smooth and glossy.

Reheating

For the just-baked effect, warm a slice in the microwave for 10–15 seconds—just until the bread is tender and the frosting softens slightly. If you freeze individual portions, let them thaw in the fridge and gently warm before eating.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Absolutely! Just be sure to cook and mash your fresh pumpkin thoroughly, then strain out excess moisture before measuring. You want the same thick, silky consistency as canned pumpkin puree to keep your Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting rich and moist.

Can I make this bread gluten-free?

Yes! Swap in a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of the regular flour. Check your baking soda and pumpkin pie spice to ensure they’re gluten-free, too. The texture stays lovely and the flavor shines through.

How do I prevent my streusel from sinking?

Chilling the streusel before adding it to the batter is key. It keeps the topping firm so it doesn’t melt into the loaf as it bakes. Also, sprinkle it gently and evenly over the whole surface for the best crisp finish.

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

Definitely! Double all ingredients and bake two loaves side-by-side. Just keep in mind that baking time may vary slightly, so check both with toothpicks for doneness and rotate the pans if your oven heats unevenly.

Is it okay to make the frosting ahead of time?

Yes, you can whip up the cream cheese frosting up to 2 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge, then give it a brisk stir before pouring over your Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting. If it’s too firm, let it sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before using.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been searching for that go-to autumn treat, Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting deserves a spot in your recipe box. Share it at brunch, bring it to a gathering, or savor a quiet slice with your morning coffee—you’ll fall for its tender crumb and creamy topper again and again. Promise yourself you’ll try it soon, and see why it’s such an irresistible classic!

Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 26 reviews

Author: Lila
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Yield: 1 loaf 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Indulge in the warm, comforting flavors of fall with this delicious Pumpkin Bread recipe topped with a luscious Cream Cheese Frosting. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy treat at home.

Instructions

Pumpkin Spice Streusel Mix the flour, brown sugar, and pumpkin spice in a bowl. Add melted butter and combine. Chill until ready to use.
Pumpkin Bread Preheat oven. Prepare loaf pan. Mix dry ingredients in one bowl. In another bowl, combine wet ingredients. Mix wet and dry ingredients. Pour batter into pan, top with streusel, bake.
Cool
Cream Cheese Frosting Beat cream cheese, butter, and vanilla until smooth. Add powdered sugar, mix, pour in milk and mix until pourable. Pour over cooled bread.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 320
Sugar: 25g
Sodium: 260mg
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 46g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 4g
Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: Pumpkin Bread, Cream Cheese Frosting, Fall Baking, Pumpkin Recipe