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Fall is here, and there’s no better way to celebrate than with a warm slice of Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread. This delightful treat blends rich pumpkin flavor with sweet chocolate chips, making it perfect for cozy days. Whether you’re a novice baker or a seasoned pro, you’ll find joy in this easy recipe. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this delicious fall favorite!

Why I Love This Recipe
- Moist and Flavorful: This pumpkin bread is incredibly moist thanks to the pumpkin puree, which not only adds flavor but also keeps the bread tender.
- Chocolate Delight: The semi-sweet chocolate chips create a delightful contrast with the spices and pumpkin, making each bite a sweet surprise.
- Perfect for Fall: With its warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, this recipe captures the essence of autumn, making it a seasonal favorite.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced bakers alike.
Ingredients
When making chocolate chip pumpkin bread, you need a few key ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
– 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup vegetable oil
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup pecans or walnuts (optional)
Each ingredient plays a role in creating the perfect loaf. The canned pumpkin puree gives the bread its rich flavor and moist texture. Vegetable oil adds softness. Brown and granulated sugars sweeten and enhance the bread’s taste.
Eggs provide structure and richness, while vanilla adds depth. The flour forms the base, and baking soda and baking powder help it rise. Spices like cinnamon and nutmeg bring warmth and flavor.
Chocolate chips create delightful bursts of sweetness, and nuts add crunch if you choose to include them. Each bite offers a mix of flavors that celebrate fall.

Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Oven and Bakeware
– Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
– Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
Start by warming your oven. This step is key to getting a nice loaf. Greasing the pan helps the bread slide out easily after baking. Use a little oil or cooking spray to coat the inside.
Mixing Wet Ingredients
– Combine pumpkin puree, oils, and sugars.
– Incorporate eggs and vanilla extract.
In a large bowl, mix the pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Stir until smooth. Then add the eggs one by one, mixing well after each. Finally, stir in the vanilla extract, which adds a lovely flavor.
Combining Dry Ingredients
– Mix flour, baking soda, baking powder, and spices.
In another bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, baking powder, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. This mixture gives your bread a warm, spiced taste. Make sure to blend well so the leavening agents distribute evenly.
Blending Everything Together
– Fold dry mix into wet ingredients.
– Add chocolate chips and nuts (if using).
Now it’s time to mix! Gently fold the dry mix into the wet ingredients. Be careful not to overmix. This keeps your bread soft and fluffy. Then, fold in the chocolate chips and nuts, if you like. They add a nice crunch and sweetness.
Baking the Bread
– Pour batter into prepared pan.
– Bake for 55-65 minutes.
Pour the batter into your greased pan. Smooth the top with a spatula. Place the pan in the oven and bake for 55 to 65 minutes. Check with a toothpick. If it comes out clean, your bread is ready.
Cooling Process
– Let bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
– Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
After baking, let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This step helps it set. Then, transfer it to a wire rack. Allow it to cool completely before slicing. Enjoy the delicious aroma filling your kitchen!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Recipe
To make the best chocolate chip pumpkin bread, avoid overmixing the batter. When you mix too much, the bread can become tough. Stir gently until all ingredients are just combined. This helps keep your loaf tender and soft. Always check for doneness with a toothpick. Insert it into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean, your bread is ready!
Presentation Tips
Slice the bread into thick, generous pieces for serving. This makes each slice look inviting and hearty. You can also serve each slice on a rustic wooden board for style. Top with a dollop of whipped cream cheese. This adds a rich flavor that complements the bread perfectly. A sprinkle of cinnamon on top adds a lovely aroma that invites everyone to dig in!
Baking Alternatives
If you prefer gluten-free options, try using gluten-free flour. Many blends work well and keep the bread moist. Just follow the same measurements. You can also adjust sweeteners based on your taste. Use honey or maple syrup instead of sugar. Keep in mind that this may change the bread’s texture slightly, but it will still taste great!
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Spices: Always use fresh ground spices for the best flavor. If you have whole spices, grind them just before use to maximize their potency.
- Check for Doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center of the bread. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, your bread is ready!
- Cool Completely: Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing. This helps to maintain its structure and prevents it from becoming gummy.
- Storage Tips: Wrap the bread in plastic wrap and store it at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze it for longer storage. Thaw before serving.

Variations
Healthier Alternatives
You can make this bread a bit healthier. First, swap the vegetable oil with unsweetened applesauce. This change cuts the fat and adds moisture. You won’t lose any taste. Next, consider reducing the sugar. You can use natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup. This keeps the sweetness while being a bit better for you.
Flavor Variations
Get creative with your spices! Add ground ginger or cloves for a warm kick. These spices pair well with pumpkin. You can also mix in dried fruits like cranberries or raisins. They add chewiness and a burst of flavor. Each bite becomes a surprise!
Mini Bread Loaves
Want to make mini versions? Adjust your baking time. Bake for about 25-30 minutes instead of 55-65 minutes. Keep an eye on them. A toothpick should come out clean when done. For serving, think about two mini loaves per person. This makes for a fun and easy snack!
Storage Info
Short-term Storage
To keep your chocolate chip pumpkin bread fresh, store it at room temperature. Place it in an airtight container. This helps keep the bread moist and tasty for a few days. If you don’t have a container, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap.
Long-term Storage
For long-term storage, freezing works well. First, let the bread cool completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil. This prevents freezer burn. You can freeze the bread for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, take it out and let it thaw at room temperature. For quicker thawing, you can also use the microwave, but be careful not to overheat.
Best Practices for Freshness
When reheating leftovers, set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Warm the bread for about 10-15 minutes. This helps revive the flavors and textures. Watch for signs of spoilage, like mold or an off smell. If you notice any, it’s best to toss the bread. Remember, fresh bread has a sweet, rich aroma that makes it so delightful!
FAQs
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin! Just cook and puree it. Aim for 1 cup of fresh puree. Fresh can add a nice taste. It may also be a bit wetter than canned. So, adjust your flour slightly if needed.
How long can I store chocolate chip pumpkin bread?
You can store chocolate chip pumpkin bread for about 3 to 5 days. Keep it in an airtight container at room temperature. This will help it stay moist. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it.
Can I omit the nuts?
Yes, you can leave out the nuts. The bread will still taste great without them. If you prefer a nut-free version, just skip that step. The chocolate chips provide enough flavor and texture.
What can I substitute for eggs in the recipe?
You can use applesauce or mashed banana instead of eggs. Use 1/4 cup of either for each egg. This will help bind the bread. You can also try flaxseed meal mixed with water as a substitute.
Is this bread suitable for freezing?
Yes, chocolate chip pumpkin bread freezes well! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. This helps keep out air and prevents freezer burn. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready, thaw it in the fridge overnight.
In this article, we covered how to make chocolate chip pumpkin bread from start to finish. I shared the key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips for perfecting your loaf. Remember, you can customize this recipe with different spices or add-ins to match your taste. Storing it properly ensures you enjoy this treat longer. With these insights, you are ready to bake a delicious loaf that your friends and family will love. Now it’s time to gather your ingredients and get cookin
Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread
A deliciously moist pumpkin bread studded with chocolate chips and warm spices.
Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Cook Time 1 hour hr
Total Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 10
Calories 200 kcal
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1 2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 2 cup brown sugar
- 1 2 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 2 cup pecans or walnuts (optional)
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth.
Add the eggs one by one, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix well to ensure all dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, being careful not to overmix. Stir just until combined.
Gently fold in the chocolate chips and nuts, if using, until evenly dispersed throughout the batter.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Bake for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Once baked, remove from the oven and let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Slice the bread into thick, generous pieces and serve on a rustic wooden board. You can top each slice with a dollop of whipped cream cheese for extra indulgence. Sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon on top for an aromatic touch!
Keyword chocolate chip, fall recipes, pumpkin bread
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