Moist Butterscotch Glazed Pumpkin Bread

This moist butterscotch glazed pumpkin bread is the perfect warm treat for crisp fall afternoons. The tender crumb infused with cozy spices and the luscious butterscotch glaze make every bite feel like a comforting hug. It’s the kind of recipe that fills your kitchen with the fragrance of autumn and leaves you eagerly waiting for the next slice.

This bread quickly became a favorite for weekend breakfasts and afternoon coffee breaks. I love how the flavors balance sweetness and spice so effortlessly each time I make it.

Ingredients You Need

• all‑purpose flour: 1 3/4 cups to create the body of the bread with just the right density opt for fresh flour for best rise
• baking soda: 1 teaspoon to gently lift and lighten the loaf
• baking powder: 1/2 teaspoon for a subtle reliable rise boosting fluffiness
• salt: 1/2 teaspoon to enhance flavor and balance sweetness
• ground cinnamon: 1 teaspoon for a warm inviting spice base
• ground nutmeg: 1/2 teaspoon adding depth and a hint of nuttiness
• ground cloves: 1/4 teaspoon to give a touch of aromatic intensity
• ground ginger: 1/4 teaspoon delivering a subtle zing and warmth
• canned pumpkin puree: 1 cup supplying moisture and pumpkins signature earthiness choose pure pumpkin rather than pie filling
• vegetable oil: 1/2 cup to keep the bread moist and tender
• brown sugar: 1 cup packed to add caramel notes and sweetness
• eggs: 2 large binding ingredients and adding richness
• vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon for a mellow sweet aroma
• butterscotch chips: 1/2 cup give that glossy buttery sweet finish in the glaze
• heavy cream: 2 tablespoons to melt the butterscotch smoothly
• vanilla extract: 1/4 teaspoon to lift the flavor of the glaze with extra depth

Detailed Cooking Directions

Build The Dry Base:

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and all the warm spices until evenly combined. This mixture forms the flavor foundation.

Combine The Wet Ingredients:

In a large bowl, mix the pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and cohesive, ensuring the batter will be tender.

Mix Gently To Combine:

Carefully fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread light and soft.

Prepare For Baking:

Grease and flour a 9x5-inch loaf pan well to prevent sticking. Pour the batter into the pan and level the top with a spatula for even baking.

Bake To Perfection:

Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit and bake for 55 to 65 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center it should come out clean.

Cool Before Glazing:

Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 10 minutes to set, then transfer it to a wire rack. This prevents the bottom from becoming soggy.

Make The Butterscotch Glaze:

Melt butterscotch chips and heavy cream together over a double boiler stirring until smooth. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract for flavor.

Glaze And Serve:

Drizzle the warm glaze over the cooled pumpkin bread. Wait for the glaze to set slightly before slicing to keep each piece neat and glossy.

I remember making a double batch one chilly weekend and sharing it around the neighborhood as an impromptu gift. The buttery glaze got rave reviews and made it a favorite every season since.

Smart Storage Tips

Store leftover pumpkin bread wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or foil at room temperature for up to three days to maintain moisture. For longer storage, wrap tightly and freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight before glazing or reheat gently in the oven to refresh.

Ingredient Variations

Swap vegetable oil for melted butter to add a richer mouthfeel. Use maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a natural sweetener with an earthy touch. Add chopped pecans or walnuts into the batter for some delightful crunch and nutty flavor.

Perfect Pairing Ideas

Enjoy a warm slice with a cup of cinnamon-spiced coffee or chai tea to complement the spices. Top with a smear of cream cheese or mascarpone for a creamy contrast to the sweet cake. Serve alongside a vanilla bean ice cream scoop for an indulgent dessert experience.

This pumpkin bread feels like the perfect recipe to welcome the season with open arms and warm hearts. Once you try it glazed in butterscotch, you’ll find it hard to turn to any other autumn treat.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What spices enhance the pumpkin flavor?

Cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger complement the pumpkin to create a warm, autumnal taste.

→ How can I keep the bread moist?

Using vegetable oil and pumpkin puree adds moisture, ensuring a tender crumb without drying out.

→ What’s the best way to prevent the bread from becoming tough?

Mix the batter gently and avoid overmixing to maintain a soft texture in the finished loaf.

→ How do I make the butterscotch glaze smooth?

Gently melt butterscotch chips with heavy cream over a double boiler, stirring until glossy and uniform.

→ Can I adjust the thickness of the glaze?

Yes, add more heavy cream to thin the glaze or reduce it for a thicker consistency.

→ What pan size is recommended?

A 9x5-inch loaf pan works well to bake the bread evenly with the right thickness.