Downeast Maine Pumpkin Bread

Downeast Maine Pumpkin Bread

This recipe yields a soft, moist pumpkin bread brimming with warm spices—perfect for autumn gatherings or a cozy holiday breakfast.

Ingredients

Instructions

1. Preheat & Prep Pans
   Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease two 9-inch loaf pans and set aside.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin purée, eggs, oil, water, and sugar. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well-blended.
3. Whisk Dry Ingredients
   In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, ginger, and cardamom.
4. Combine Mixtures
   Slowly incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring just until everything is combined. Be careful not to overmix.
5. Fill Pans
   Evenly pour the batter into the prepared loaf pans.
6. Bake
   Bake for 55–60 minutes. To avoid over-browning, tent the loaves loosely with aluminum foil during the last 15–20 minutes. They’re done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Cool in Pans
   Let the loaves cool in their pans for about 15 minutes after baking.
8. Cool Completely
   Carefully remove the loaves from the pans and place them on a wire rack to cool completely. This step helps the bread firm up for clean slicing.
9. Serve
   Slice and enjoy your fragrant, spiced Downeast Maine Pumpkin Bread—delicious served warm or at room temperature!