Pumpkin Spice Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful treat that perfectly captures the warmth and flavors of fall. It is moist, flavorful, and topped with a creamy frosting that adds an extra layer of sweetness. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, as a snack, or a dessert, this bread is sure to satisfy your cravings and bring a smile to your face.

Why Make This Recipe
There are many reasons to make pumpkin spice bread. First, it is an easy recipe that doesn’t require advanced baking skills. Second, the combination of spices and pumpkin creates a comforting and delicious flavor that many people love. Third, the cream cheese frosting adds a rich, creamy touch that complements the bread perfectly. Finally, sharing this bread with family and friends during the fall season can create joyful memories, making it a great choice for gatherings.
How to Make Pumpkin Spice Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting
Making Pumpkin Spice Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting is straightforward. Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a lovely loaf in no time!
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 3/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 3/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (at room temperature)
- 4 ounces cream cheese (at room temperature)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar (packed)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 4 ounces cream cheese
- 1 1/2 cups confectioners’ sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup toasted chopped pecans
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Lightly coat a 9×5 loaf pan with nonstick spray.
- In a large bowl, mix together flour, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, use an electric mixer with the paddle attachment to beat the butter, cream cheese, and both sugars on medium-high speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Then, mix in the vanilla extract.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- With the mixer on low speed, gradually add the dry ingredients and pumpkin puree alternately in three parts, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined.
- Pour the batter evenly into the loaf pan and bake for 55 minutes or until a tester inserted in the center comes out clean. Remove it from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack before frosting.
- For the frosting, beat the cream cheese in a bowl until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. With the mixer on low, gradually add the confectioners’ sugar and mix until combined.
- Add the additional vanilla and cinnamon and mix well. Increase to medium-high speed and beat until the frosting is light and fluffy, about 1-2 minutes.
- Use a small offset spatula to spread the cream cheese frosting on top of the cooled bread. If you like, sprinkle with chopped pecans for added texture and flavor.
How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Bread
You can serve Pumpkin Spice Bread slices on their own or with a dollop of extra cream cheese frosting. It pairs well with a cup of coffee or tea, making it the perfect afternoon snack or breakfast treat.
How to Store Pumpkin Spice Bread
Store the Pumpkin Spice Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. It can be thawed at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
Tips to Make Pumpkin Spice Bread
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best mixing results.
- Don’t overmix the batter; mix only until just combined to keep the bread moist.
- You can add chocolate chips or raisins for extra flavor.
- Adjust spices according to your taste; add more or less if desired.
Variation
For a healthier twist, consider using whole wheat flour or a sugar substitute. You can also add other spices like allspice or cocoa powder to create new flavors!
FAQs
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin! Make sure to cook and puree it first until it reaches a smooth consistency.
Can I make this bread gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
How long does the cream cheese frosting last?
The cream cheese frosting can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week, but it’s best enjoyed fresh. If you have leftover frosting, seal it in an airtight container to keep it fresh.

Pumpkin Spice Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
- 1.5 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 0.75 teaspoons ground ginger
- 0.5 teaspoons ground nutmeg
- 0.25 teaspoons ground cloves
- 0.75 teaspoons baking soda
- 0.5 teaspoons baking powder
- 0.5 teaspoons kosher salt
Wet Ingredients
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (at room temperature)
- 4 ounces cream cheese (at room temperature)
- 0.75 cups granulated sugar
- 0.5 cups light brown sugar (packed)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
Frosting Ingredients
- 4 ounces cream cheese
- 1.5 cups confectioners’ sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 0.25 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 0.25 cups toasted chopped pecans for topping
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Lightly coat a 9×5 loaf pan with nonstick spray.
- In a large bowl, mix together flour, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
Mixing and Baking
- In another bowl, use an electric mixer with the paddle attachment to beat the butter, cream cheese, and both sugars on medium-high speed until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Mix in the vanilla extract.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- With the mixer on low speed, gradually add the dry ingredients and pumpkin puree alternately in three parts, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined.
- Pour the batter into the loaf pan and bake for 55 minutes or until a tester inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Remove from the oven and let cool completely on a wire rack before frosting.
Frosting
- Beat the cream cheese until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Gradually add the confectioners’ sugar and mix until combined.
- Add the additional vanilla and cinnamon, mix well, and then increase to medium-high speed, beating until light and fluffy, about 1-2 minutes.
- Spread the frosting over the cooled bread and sprinkle with chopped pecans if desired.







