Amidst the crisp fall air, I recently found myself yearning for a taste that captures the essence of the season. That’s when I stumbled upon the idea of Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread—a moist and spiced delight that effortlessly combines the warm, nostalgic flavors of pumpkin with the sweet indulgence of chocolate. This easy recipe is perfect for any home chef looking to bring a bit of joy into the kitchen, and it’s kid-friendly too—making it a hit for the whole family. With just one bowl needed and no mixer in sight, you’ll be on your way to a delicious treat that fills your home with the enchanting aroma of fall. Ready to indulge in this cozy bake? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why is Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread a Must-Try?
Ease of Preparation: This one-bowl recipe means less cleanup and more time enjoying your cozy treat.
Delightful Flavor: Experience the rich combination of pumpkin and chocolate, an irresistible pairing that warms the soul.
Perfect Texture: Enjoy a moist and tender crumb that makes every slice a heavenly indulgence.
Kid-Friendly Fun: Get the little ones involved! They’ll love mixing and watching the chocolate chips melt.
Fall Comfort Food: Create the perfect ambiance with this seasonal favorite that captures the essence of autumn.
If you’re looking to further expand your baking repertoire, consider trying the Raspberry Chocolate Mousse for an upscale dessert or whip up some Soft Pumpkin Cookies for another seasonal delight.
Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread Ingredients
Dive into the delightful world of flavors with this easy-to-make Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread!
For the Batter
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure and can easily be swapped with a gluten-free blend.
- Baking Powder – Ensures the bread rises beautifully; don’t forget to check its freshness!
- Baking Soda – Works with the pumpkin’s acidity for a perfect lift in the bread.
- Salt – Enhances the sweet and spiced flavors; kosher salt works well here.
- Ground Cinnamon – Infuses warmth; for a twist, you can use allspice instead.
- Pumpkin Pie Spice – Adds depth to the recipe; you can buy it or create your own blend.
- Ground Nutmeg – Offers a unique flavor note; fresh ground nutmeg elevates the taste.
- Mini Chocolate Chips – Adds sweetness and texture; feel free to swap for dark chocolate if desired.
- Unsalted Butter – Contributes richness; coconut oil makes a great dairy-free option.
- Vegetable or Canola Oil – Keeps the bread moist; canola oil is a good alternative.
- Brown Sugar – Sweetens the bread while providing moisture; dark brown sugar gives a deeper flavor.
- Canned Pumpkin – Essential for moisture and flavor—ensure it’s pure pumpkin, not pie filling.
- Large Eggs – Binds everything together; let them come to room temperature for best results.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor profile beautifully.
With these simple ingredients, you’re set to create a comforting Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread that brings the heart of fall right into your kitchen! Happy baking!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grab a 9×5-inch bread pan. Take a moment to generously grease the pan with butter or cooking spray, then sprinkle a little flour to ensure an easy release once your delicious Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread is baked.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, and ground nutmeg. Whisk together until well blended, ensuring there are no lumps. This step is crucial for the perfect rise and flavor balance in your moist bread.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, melt unsalted butter and let it cool slightly. Then add vegetable or canola oil, brown sugar, canned pumpkin, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk the ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and well-combined, creating a creamy base that infuses flavor into the Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread.
Step 4: Blend Dry and Wet Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently with a spatula. Be mindful not to overmix; aim for just combined where a few flour streaks remain. This technique will help maintain the tender crumb of the bread while evenly distributing the spices and moisture.
Step 5: Incorporate the Chocolate Chips
Fold in the mini chocolate chips gently, ensuring they are distributed throughout the batter. This is where the magic happens—they will melt into sweet pockets within the warm loaf. Once mixed, transfer the batter into your prepared bread pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place your bread in the preheated oven and bake for 50 to 65 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean with a few moist crumbs. Keep a close watch toward the end of baking. Your kitchen will soon fill with the inviting aroma of Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread!
Step 7: Cool and Slice
Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. This allows it to set and makes for easier slicing. After cooling, gently turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely. Slicing while still warm might cause the delicious, moist bread to crumble.
How to Store and Freeze Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread
Room Temperature: Store wrapped in plastic wrap or foil for up to 4 days in a cool, dry place to maintain freshness without drying out.
Fridge: Keep your Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week; this helps retain moisture while prolonging shelf life.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze slices in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to 3 months; this preserves the delicious flavor and texture.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature and warm slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or toast for a quick refresher of that cozy fall warmth.
Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread Variations
Feel free to play with this recipe and make it your own; there’s always room for creativity in the kitchen!
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Nutty Addition: Substitute mini chocolate chips with walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch. The added texture complements the sweetness beautifully.
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Dried Fruit Delight: Mix in dried cranberries or cherries for a fruity burst that balances the richness of pumpkin and chocolate. These add unexpected pops of flavor!
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Banana Twist: For a banana-pumpkin fusion, replace half the pumpkin with mashed ripe bananas. This will introduce a lovely sweetness and extra moisture to your bread.
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Less Sugar: Reduce the sugar to make a less sweet bread or opt for coconut sugar as a healthier alternative. It enhances the flavor without overpowering the natural sweetness of pumpkin.
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Vegan Option: Replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) and use almond milk instead of butter for a delicious vegan-friendly twist.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder for a surprising hit of spice that elevates the flavor profile, perfect for those who enjoy a little heat!
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Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour for a deliciously moist treat that caters to gluten-sensitive friends and family.
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Extra Chocolate: For those with a sweet tooth, double the amount of chocolate chips or incorporate a swirl of chocolate spread into the batter before baking. Why settle for one layer of chocolate goodness?
If you’re looking for more fall baking ideas, you might also enjoy whipping up some Soft Pumpkin Cookies or dive into the delightful flavors of Sugar Donut Bread. Happy baking!
Expert Tips for Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread
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Mix Gently: Avoid overmixing the batter as this can lead to a dense loaf. Stop mixing when you see just a few flour streaks.
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Check Baking Powder: Ensure your baking powder is fresh. Old leavening agents can result in a flat texture, ruining your Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread.
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Room Temperature Eggs: Use eggs at room temperature for a smoother batter blend. Cold eggs can cause the mixture to seize, affecting the crumb.
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Cool Before Slicing: Allow the bread to cool fully before slicing to prevent crumbling. Patience ensures clean, beautiful slices for sharing.
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Oven Variability: Every oven is different! Keep an eye on the baking time and check for doneness a few minutes early to prevent overbaking.
What to Serve with Easy Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread
Warm your senses and create a comforting feast by adding delightful side dishes and drinks to your pumpkin bread experience.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The velvety texture and buttery flavor create a lovely contrast to the sweet, spiced bread.
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Apple Cinnamon Salad: Bright and crisp, this salad complements the pumpkin’s warmth with its refreshing crunch and zingy dressing. A perfect addition!
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their earthy flavor and caramelized edges add depth to your meal, balancing the sweetness of the Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Served alongside a warm slice, this treat melts into the bread, creating a luscious experience with every bite.
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Spiced Chai Latte: Rich and aromatic, this drink enhances the warm spices in your bread while providing a cozy beverage to sip on.
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Pumpkin Spice Cookies: Echo the flavors of your main dish with these delightful cookies! Their chewy texture and spiced flavors will complement your feast beautifully.
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Dark Chocolate Hot Cocoa: Indulge in velvety hot cocoa, especially enjoyable on those crisp autumn evenings. Its richness pairs wonderfully with every slice of your bread!
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Maple Pecan Pie: Finish off the meal with a slice of this decadent pie, channeling the comforting flavors of fall that will linger delightfully on your palate.
Make Ahead Options
These Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread loaves are a blessing for busy home cooks looking to save time during hectic weeks! You can prepare the dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, baking soda, spices, and salt) up to 24 hours in advance—just store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. The wet ingredients can also be combined and refrigerated for up to 3 days; however, to maintain optimal flavor, add the canned pumpkin, eggs, and vanilla back into the mixture before baking. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply combine your prepped ingredients, add the chocolate chips, and bake for that delightful aroma and taste that makes this Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread perfect for cozy gatherings!
Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting canned pumpkin?
Absolutely! When choosing canned pumpkin, make sure to select pure pumpkin puree rather than pumpkin pie filling. Look for a label that clearly states “100% pure pumpkin” to ensure you’re getting the right consistency and flavor for your Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread.
How should I store leftover Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread?
Very good question! Wrap your cooled Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store it at room temperature for up to 4 days. For refrigeration, keep it in an airtight container for up to a week, which helps maintain its moistness.
Can I freeze Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread?
Absolutely! To freeze, first let the bread cool completely. Slice it into individual portions and lay them on a baking sheet to freeze for about 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer the slices into a zip-top bag and label with the date. You can store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm slices in the microwave.
What if my Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread is too dense?
No worries! If your bread turns out dense, it could be due to overmixing the batter. I recommend combining the wet and dry ingredients until they’re just moistened, with a few flour streaks remaining. Ensure your baking powder is also fresh to give the bread the lift it needs.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! For a gluten-free Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure the blend contains xanthan gum to provide structure. This way, you can still enjoy the delicious flavors while catering to dietary needs.
Is this recipe safe for pets?
While the ingredients in Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread—like pumpkin—can be good for dogs in small amounts, it’s best to avoid giving them bread with chocolate. Chocolate is toxic to dogs, so it’s wise to keep this yummy treat away from your furry friends!
Moist Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread for Cozy Fall Days
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease the bread pan with butter or cooking spray.
- In a large bowl, combine all dry ingredients and whisk together.
- Melt unsalted butter, let cool slightly, then mix with wet ingredients.
- Gradually add dry mixture to wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined.
- Fold in mini chocolate chips gently, then transfer batter to prepared pan.
- Bake for 50 to 65 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
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